Patios are the perfect place to relax and entertain guests, but they can quickly become cluttered if you don’t have a designated space for trash. A trash can on the patio is essential to keep the space clean and tidy, but it doesn’t have to be an eyesore.
In this blog post, we’ll explore different types of patio trash cans and provide some creative ideas to make your patio trash can both functional and stylish.
Types of Patio Trash Cans
When it comes to patio trash cans, there are several options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular types:
Traditional trash cans:
These are made of metal, plastic, or wood and come in a variety of sizes and styles. They’re durable, easy to clean, and can be found at most home improvement stores.
Decorative trash cans:
These are designed to blend in with your patio decor and can be made of materials like stone or feature mosaic patterns. They’re a great option if you want a trash can that looks more like a piece of art than a functional item.
Combination of trash and recycling bins:
If you’re an eco-conscious homeowner, a combination trash and recycling bin is a great option. You can sort your trash and recyclables in one convenient location.
Portable trash cans:
If you like to move your patio furniture around, a portable trash can with wheels or a collapsible design is a great choice. They’re easy to move and store when not in use.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Patio Trash Can
Before choosing a patio trash can, consider the following factors:
Capacity: Make sure the trash can is large enough to hold the amount of trash generated by your family and guests.
Durability: Look for a trash can made of weather-resistant and long-lasting materials like metal, plastic, or stone.
Style: Choose a trash can that complements the aesthetics of your patio.
Accessibility: Consider how easy it is to open and close the trash can and how easy it is to dispose of trash.
Maintenance: Look for a trash can that is easy to clean and empty.
Patio Trash Can Ideas
Now that you know the different types of patio trash cans and the factors to consider when choosing one, here are some creative ideas to make your patio trash can both functional and stylish:
Dual-function patio furniture trash cans:
These are trash cans that are built into patio furniture like benches or side tables. They’re a great option if you’re short on space and want to maximize functionality.
DIY trash can enclosures:
If you’re handy, you can build a custom enclosure to hide your trash can. It’s a great option if you want to keep the trash can out of sight but still easily accessible.
Hidden trash cans:
If you have a deck or garden bed, you can place your trash can underneath to keep it hidden. It’s a great option if you have limited patio space.
Vertical trash cans:
Wall-mounted or freestanding trash cans are a great option if you’re short on floor space. They can be easily mounted to a wall or placed in a corner.
Miniature trash cans:
If you have a small patio or balcony, a miniature trash can is a great option. They’re small and compact, but still functional enough to keep your space clean.
How To Hide Trash Cans In Patio?
If you have trash cans on your patio, you may be looking for ways to hide them from view. Fortunately, there are several options for hiding trash cans in a patio setting. Here are some ideas:
- Use a privacy screen: A privacy screen is a great way to hide trash cans on a patio. You can use a pre-made screen or create your own by attaching slats to a wooden frame. Place the screen around the area where the trash cans are stored to conceal them.
- Use a decorative fence: A decorative fence is another option for hiding trash cans on a patio. Choose a fence that matches the style of your patio and place it around the trash cans to keep them out of sight.
- Use plants: Plants are a great way to hide trash cans on a patio. Place potted plants around the area where the trash cans are stored or create a small garden to conceal them.
- Use a storage bench: A storage bench is a functional way to hide trash cans on a patio. Choose a bench that has a lift-up lid or doors that open to reveal storage space. Place the bench over the trash cans to keep them out of sight.
- Use a built-in cabinet: If you have a built-in outdoor kitchen or bar on your patio, consider adding a cabinet that can be used to store trash cans. Choose a cabinet that matches the style of your patio and place it in a convenient location to make it easy to access the trash cans when needed.
FAQs:
Q: What should I look for when choosing a patio trash can?
A: When choosing a patio trash can, consider factors such as capacity, durability, and style. Choose a trash can with a capacity that meets your needs and is made of durable materials that can withstand outdoor elements. Additionally, consider the style of the trash can and how it will fit in with your patio decor.
Q: How can I keep animals out of my patio trash can?
A: To keep animals out of your patio trash can, consider using a trash can with a locking lid or adding a bungee cord or strap to keep the lid securely closed. Additionally, avoid putting food scraps or other attractive items in the trash can that may attract animals.
Q: How can I make my patio trash can more functional?
A: To make your patio trash can more functional, consider using a dual-function trash can that also serves as patio furniture, such as a storage bench or side table. You can also use a combination trash and recycling bin to make it easy to sort and dispose of recyclables.
Q: Can I decorate my patio trash can?
A: Yes, you can decorate your patio trash can to make it more stylish and visually appealing. Consider adding vinyl decals, painting the trash can with outdoor paint, or using adhesive wallpaper to give it a custom look.
Q: How can I prevent my patio trash can from blowing over in windy conditions?
A: To prevent your patio trash can from blowing over in windy conditions, consider placing a weight inside the trash can, such as a bag of sand or rocks. You can also place the trash can in a sheltered area or use a bungee cord or strap to secure it to a nearby object.
Conclusion
A patio trash can is an essential item for any homeowner with an outdoor living space. To make your patio trash can more functional and stylish, consider some of the creative ideas we’ve outlined, like dual-function patio furniture trash cans, DIY trash can enclosures, hidden trash cans, vertical trash cans, and miniature trash cans.
Remember that choosing the right patio trash can for your needs and preferences is important to keep your outdoor living space clean and tidy. A well-chosen trash can can also enhance the overall aesthetics of your patio and complement your patio furniture and decor.
We hope that this blog post has given you some inspiration and ideas for your patio trash can. Whether you prefer a traditional or a decorative trash can, or if you want to build a custom enclosure, there’s a solution for everyone. So go ahead and choose the perfect patio trash can for your needs and start enjoying your outdoor living space to the fullest!