That's an excellent and very practical question for anyone living in a sunny climate! I've had my own bins baking in the sun for years, so I can share both the technical side and real-world experience.
The short answer is: it depends entirely on the quality of the plastic and its UV stabilizers. Basic, inexpensive plastic bins will become brittle, fade to a chalky color, and can crack within just a couple of seasons under intense, constant sun. The UV rays break down the polymer chains in the plastic—a process called photodegradation.
However, most quality outdoor trash cans today are made from materials like HDPE (high-density polyethylene) or polypropylene that are *specifically formulated with UV inhibitors*. These are additives mixed into the plastic resin that act like sunscreen, absorbing or scattering the ultraviolet radiation before it can damage the material's structure. You'll often see terms like "UV-protected," "weather-resistant," or "all-season" on product descriptions.
From my experience, a good UV-stabilized bin in a constantly sunny spot will hold up remarkably well for 5-10 years. You'll notice fading—the color will slowly become less vibrant—but the plastic should retain its flexibility and strength. The key is to look for those specific features when buying. A thicker, denser plastic also generally fares better than a thin, flimsy one.
A quick tip: If your bin is already starting to look a bit tired, applying a protectant spray designed for automotive or outdoor plastic trim can add a helpful layer of UV blockage and restore some moisture. But prevention is best—if possible, placing the can in a spot with even a little afternoon shade can dramatically extend its life.
So, while no plastic is truly immortal under the relentless sun, choosing a well-made, UV-protected model makes all the difference. It’s worth the investment to avoid the mess of a cracked bin later on!