That's a great question! The difference mainly comes down to durability, capacity, and intended use. A standard outdoor trash can, like the one you might have at home, is designed for light to moderate use by a household. It's typically made from plastic or thin metal, has a smaller capacity (around 20-50 gallons), and focuses on basic functionality and curb appeal.
A commercial trash can, on the other hand, is built for heavy-duty, high-traffic environments like parks, restaurants, office buildings, or city streets. They are constructed from much tougher materials like thick, rotationally molded polyethylene, galvanized steel, or concrete. They have a much larger capacity, often ranging from 50 to over 100 gallons, to handle high volumes of waste. Key features you'll find on commercial units include sturdy, often locking lids to deter pests, secure mounting options to prevent theft or tipping, and designs that comply with local sanitation codes. They are engineered to withstand constant use, harsh weather, and rough handling by collection crews. So, while a standard can serves a family, a commercial can is built to serve the public.