That's a great question, especially for those of us in colder climates. From personal experience and general knowledge, the performance of plastic outdoor trash cans in freezing temps really depends on the type of plastic and how you use them.
Most standard plastic bins, like those made from polyethylene, become very brittle when the temperature drops significantly below freezing (32°F/0°C). The material loses its flexibility, making it prone to cracking if it's hit, dropped, or even just has heavy, frozen contents. I've seen lids snap and sides develop cracks after a rough winter.
However, many manufacturers now offer "all-weather" or "arctic-grade" bins made from resins designed to remain more flexible in the cold. These hold up much better. The real enemy is often impact when the plastic is frozen solid.
A few practical tips: Try to avoid letting liquid waste sit and freeze solid inside, as expanding ice can stress the seams. If possible, store the bin in a slightly sheltered spot. Be gentle when handling it in deep cold—don't kick it to dislodge a frozen bag! Overall, while they won't last forever in harsh winters, a quality plastic bin can survive if you choose a robust model and handle it with a little extra care during the coldest months.