That's an excellent and very practical question! Sun fade is a major issue for outdoor bins, making them look old and worn prematurely. After years of dealing with municipal and commercial bins, I can tell you the best choice boils down to materials specifically engineered to resist UV damage.
For the absolute best fade resistance, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic with UV inhibitors is the top contender. Manufacturers embed stabilizers during production, creating a color that's integral to the material, not just a surface coat. It won't peel, and the fading is dramatically slowed. Many modern public space bins use this.
A very close second is powder-coated steel or aluminum. The key is the "powder coat" – a durable, baked-on finish that is far superior to traditional paint. Look for bins with a high-quality polyester or fluoropolymer powder coat, which offers excellent UV stability and color retention.
Marine-grade aluminum is another superb, though often more expensive, option. It naturally forms a protective oxide layer and is typically finished with a high-performance coating, making it resilient against sun and salt air.
Avoid basic painted steel or low-grade plastics without UV protection. They will fade and degrade quickly.
My recommendation? For most urban settings, prioritize UV-inhibited HDPE. It offers the best balance of fade resistance, durability, low maintenance, and cost-effectiveness for a long-lasting, good-looking bin. Always check the product specifications for "UV-stabilized" or "UV-resistant" labels.