That's an excellent and very practical question! As someone who's managed public spaces, I've dealt with this directly. The short answer is: most modern, commercially-designed urban trash bins are absolutely built to withstand power washing, but with important caveats.
The key lies in the materials and construction. High-quality public bins are typically made from:
* Stainless Steel (304 or 316 grade): The gold standard. It's highly corrosion-resistant and handles high-pressure water and cleaning agents superbly. You'll see these in high-traffic downtown areas.
* Heavy-Duty Polymer/Plastic (like HDPE): Many contemporary bins use thick, molded plastics designed for impact resistance and easy cleaning. They can absolutely be power washed, but using a high-pressure nozzle too close might cause surface etching over time.
* Powder-Coated Steel: Common for decorative bins. The coating provides a protective layer, but aggressive power washing at the wrong angle can chip it, leading to rust spots.
Here’s the real-world advice for cleaning them effectively and safely:
1. Check Manufacturer Guidelines: Always look for a label or manual. Reputable brands specify pressure limits (e.g., max PSI) and cleaning instructions.
2. Adjust Your Technique: Use a wide-angle (40-degree) nozzle and maintain a distance of at least 12-18 inches. The goal is to clean, not strip or dent. Avoid focusing a zero-degree jet directly on seams, locks, or decals.
3. Mind the Interior: While the exterior is tough, internal mechanisms (like inner buckets or liners) may be more delicate. Often, removing and separately washing the inner container is best.
4. Use Appropriate Cleaners: Often, hot water alone is sufficient. For grease or stubborn grime, use a mild, biodegradable detergent designed for pressure washers. Avoid harsh acids or strong solvents that can damage finishes.
5. Routine is Better Than Deep Clean: Frequent, lower-pressure rinses prevent the buildup of gross, caked-on materials that require brutal force later.
What to Avoid? Cheap, thin-gauge metal or flimsy plastic residential-style bins will not hold up. They can dent, crack, or have their paint completely stripped.
In summary: Yes, professionally specified urban and commercial trash bins are engineered for power washing as a core part of maintenance. The durability is a major reason for their higher cost. The best practice is to use a measured approach—enough pressure to sanitize and refresh, but not so much that you damage the asset you're trying to maintain. It’s this robust design that keeps our public spaces cleaner and more hygienic.