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Choosing the perfect outdoor bin might not seem like a big decision at first glance, but it can have a lasting impact on how tidy, organised, and visually appealing your outdoor space looks. Whether setting up a business or a public area, getting the right balance between function, size, material, and design can make all the difference.
Public spaces, like parks or streets, might need larger, sturdier bins built to handle high volumes of waste and resist the elements. Some areas may also need bins designed to handle specific types of waste, like dog waste bins in parks or cigarette disposal bins outside businesses.
Choosing the right size bin
When it comes to bin size, it’s important to strike the right balance because a bin that's too small will overflow quickly, leading to mess and inconvenience, and one that's too large could take up unnecessary space and be difficult to move or manage.
If you're choosing a bin for a residential area, you'll need to consider how much waste is generated in a typical week. A good rule of thumb is to base the size on how often the waste is collected – if it's weekly, then a medium-sized bin might suffice, but for less frequent pickups, a larger option might be better.
For businesses or public areas, you'll want to estimate the volume of traffic and waste generated. A restaurant with outdoor seating, for example, will likely need multiple larger bins, while a small office's outdoor space might get away with a smaller bin with an ashtray top.
Inside all our bins is a galvanised steel liner; the litre size is the capacity inside the liner which holds your waste. Our most popular liner size is 120 litres, but we also offer a range from 40 litres to 180 litres capacity liners with the option of a custom liner to suit your requirements.
Materials and durability
The material of your outdoor bin is key to its longevity and functionality. Since the bin will be outdoors, it will be exposed to all kinds of weather – sun, rain, snow, and even hail or wind.
Plastic bins are popular because they're lightweight, affordable and look good. Modern plastic outdoor bins, like our Maelor Trafflex Round Litter Bin, are very durable as they're manufactured using vandal-resistant plastic with an inner steel reinforcing frame.
Metal bins tend to be more robust and longer lasting. Galvanised or stainless steel bins are very popular and are often used in commercial settings or public spaces because they can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Metal bins are also less likely to get damaged if they're knocked over or hit by objects.
Another material worth considering is wood. Wooden bins can add a rustic, natural look to your outdoor space, especially if you're aiming for a design that blends with the landscape. Our Westleigh Timber Slatted Litter Bins look great against any backdrop where aesthetics and durability are both high priorities.
You can also find bins made from cast iron, which combine heavyweight construction with elegance and a high resistance to vandalism. Broxap supplies the toughest cast iron litter bins in the UK. From traditional, classic styles like our Square Standard Cast Iron Bin to more contemporary designs like the Pierhead Tall Litter Bin, cast iron litter bins are available to create a special, public, or corporate identity.
Design and customisation
While functionality and durability are essential, the design of your outdoor bin can't be overlooked. It can enhance your outdoor area and encourage people to dispose of their litter in a more sustainable way.
Sleek, modern bins with clean lines and muted colours might suit residential or office spaces, while a bin designed with timber might benefit a more traditional outdoor space, such as historical sites and heritage gardens.
Colour options
Whether it's to match your company's branding or to blend in with the surrounding environment, selecting the right colour can make a big impact. For example, bright and vibrant colours can make the bins more visible and encourage proper use, while earthy tones can help them blend into outdoor spaces better. See all our bin colour options.
Crests and logos
From company crests to recycling and Tidyman logos to any other relevant image or text, incorporating logos onto the bins not only helps in brand promotion but also serves as a visual cue for people, reminding them of the purpose of the bins and encouraging proper use.
Full coverage graphics
Full-coverage artwork provides another way to customise litter bins, allowing eye-catching designs to be displayed. Whether it's a nature-themed design for outdoor bins, community-inspired artwork, or a visually appealing pattern, full-coverage graphics can transform the bins into attractive elements within their surroundings. This approach can also be used to raise awareness about environmental issues or promote specific campaigns, making the bins functional and impactful in their messaging.
Laser cutting
Laser cutting offers a more intricate customisation method, allowing unique patterns, shapes, or text to be cut into the bins. As part of Project Transform, our in-house Amada Ensis fibre laser cutter gives our clients greater control over the final product finish and custom fabrication options.
Encouraging recycling
Litter bins designed with multiple compartments, such as our Derby Triple Recycling Bins, Athena Double Litter & Recycling Bins, or Buxton Double Recycling Bins, make separating recyclables from general waste easier. In public spaces, well-labelled bins can help to reduce littering and ensure that recyclables aren't thrown away with general waste. This helps keep your surroundings cleaner and ensures that less waste ends up in landfills.
Litter and recycling bins by Broxap
The details matter, from choosing the right material to finding a design that complements your outdoor space. Whether you're aiming for a practical, budget-friendly solution or need something more robust and functional for a public space, the right bin will make keeping your outdoor area tidy much easier.
Incorporating bins with surrounding street furniture, whether new or existing, enhances the appearance and functionality of public spaces. Matching litter bins with other Broxap street furniture like benches and bollards creates an attractive area for people to gather, socialise, and dine outdoors.
At Broxap, our sustainability and design customisation options are constantly expanding, so you can choose a bin that reflects your values and adds a little personality to your outdoor space.