Taking trash out has never been fun, at least not for me. But efficient trash can significantly reduce the toil.
Most people think that shopping for a trash can is easy peasy. Well, it’s not. Gone are the days when you simply disposed of wastes in any available container. Today, people are looking for trash receptacles that are more reliable, convenient, and even nice-looking.
As a result, companies in the trash cans industry have, over the years, made tremendous changes in the design of their products. Nowadays, most trash can designs not only focus on effectively disposing of waste but are also aesthetic.
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Why Are Trash Cans So Expensive?
While trash cans are just used to keep trash for a short time before they are entirely disposed of, they can be surprisingly expensive. For example, cheap kitchen trash ranges from $20 to $40. But the more popular models come with a price tag of around $100, whereas the premium models can cost up to $400!
Astoundingly they’re flying off the shelves!
So, what’s so precious about these containers that people are ready to shed lots of dollars for? If you’ve come across the top-listed kitchen cans, then you must have noticed their exceptional features. And the cans with more sophisticated features are more expensive.
Let’s now see some of the elements that make trash cans cost quite a fortune:
1. Technology
Technology rules the roost in virtually all spheres in the modern world, and the trash can industry is not exempted either. That said, garbage cans host all sorts of germs, and different technologies have been put in place to protect the human from these germs.
There are numerous technological advancements in these types of trash containers, so you’ve tons of models to pick from—but they come at a cost. Let’s have a quick look at some of the recent technological innovations in the trash cans:
- Sensor Activated Models
Sensor-activated technology enables you to open your can by just getting close to it. This technology uses an infrared sensor that detects movement and opens the lid automatically when you get near it. These sensors operate with battery power.
When you’re done and move away from the bin, the lid closes automatically. Some models allow you to switch the sensor feature on and off when needed. Besides, the handles are typically attached to the bins’ cover to ease its manual operation.
- Voice Control
The voice control feature is another incredible innovation that you can get in our modern garbage cans. This technology allows you to program your cans with specific voice commands such as open, close, or stay open. After programming, your can will respond to your commands without laying a single finger on them.
- Odor Control
Garbage containers are known to be inseparable from foul odor. But with the advancements in technology, this major problem is soon becoming a thing of the past. Ultra-modern trash cans use carbon deodorizers. The deodorizers agents bind the odor molecule and change its structure to not attach to our odor receptors.
- Stylish designs
In most cases, we hide our trash cans. However, sometimes we lack enough space to do so; in this case, a more attractive can model is essential. An excellent example of a trendy bin is the Ex-Cell Kaiser Venue Collection. Its body has perforations and is comprised of 60 percent recycled brushed stainless steel.
There are many nice-looking models of different materials you can pick from. They vary in price but are generally pricey. The trash receptacles designed for outdoor purposes, such as suites, hotel lobbies, stadiums, etc., are even more attractive.
One such type is the Witt Industries Monarch Series Trash Receptacle, which is attractive and built of high-quality stainless steel. Any décor will benefit from this receptacle’s sophistication and beauty. The gleaming sheen draws people’s attention.
Their open-top design has the extra benefit of allowing rubbish to be disposed of without touching it. The easy-to-remove lid makes maintenance a breeze. The receptacle also includes an anti-skid bottom that protects the floor surface.
2. Materials
The material used to make trash cans also have an impact on their prices. They dictate the durability and the aesthetics of the garbage cans. Let’s see various sturdy materials used to design garbage cans:
- Stainless Steel
The bins made from stainless steel materials are the best for durability and esthetical purposes. As a result, these cans are trendy among people in restaurants, hotels, and residential spaces. The polished surfaces of the bin improve elegance to a place, making it look classy.
- Concrete
Concrete trash containers are common in the entranceways, office complexes, and other similar areas. The concrete cans are reputable for their superior longevity. Additionally, they bring a classic look to outdoor spaces.
- Plastic
Plastic bins are ideal for indoor and outdoor use, especially polyethylene ones like the commercial one PolyTec Waste Container. This material is long-lasting and resistant to dent, graffiti, rust, and harsh weather elements.
3. Durability
For outdoor spaces, trash containers made of solid materials are the best. The durable materials help the bins to withstand extreme weather conditions. For example, heavy-duty plastic can be used with flaps or hoods to protect the containers from different weather elements.
Besides the weather situation, some areas are vulnerable to disturbance from big animals such as bears. For such places, a metal can is ideal. Moreover, the metal materials can also protect the bins from small animals such as squirrels.
4. Accessories
It’s not enough to spend a lot of money on garbage cans for indoor and outdoor use. Various accessories, such as waste bags or liners, must also be considered. Because trash receptacles are more expensive, it is critical to keep them properly.
Choose a bag that is appropriate for the size of your garbage can. Purchasing a waste bag that is one size larger than your trash container is usually a good idea. Trash bags are classified according to their width, length, and weight capacity. Besides, the bags are measured in length and width and should be long enough for the bag to stretch 4 inches past the bin’s sidewalls.
Things to look for when choosing a trash can
1. Ease Of Use
Trash cans bins are so much more than just receptacles that take up space. They must match jobs and be simple to operate. For example, the overall weight of trash cans in residential settings should be low enough for a single person to manage. Additionally, be sure to check the can’s lid design. The lids should also be designed for easy disposal of waste.
2. Odor Control
Trash cans kept indoors or in hotter climates typically pose an odor issue. While buying indoor trash cans, ensure to focus on manufacturers who offer extras such as odor eliminators to keep your bin odorless.
3. Animal-proofing
While this is a severe concern in bear-infested areas, tiny animals such as opossums, raccoons, and rats frequently get into the trash, leaving a mess and a hazard in their wake. You can avoid this problem by using a certified animal-proof garbage can with a locking lid.
Many products claim to be animal-proof, so search for a seal of approval from an independent organization like the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC), which conducts extensive testing to establish whether products can endure repeated clawing, toppling, and eating.
4. Durability
Choose a can meant for industrial use because waste haulers and customers are both rough on cans. Plastic cans are more portable and lighter than metal cans but avoid lightweight polymers that wear out rapidly. Remember that well-made trash containers last 10 to 15 years with moderate use.
5. Local Regulations
Check for any suggestions or limits first, as governments and haulers progressively regulate trash bin size and weight. The phone number to contact for this information is usually printed on the can.
6. Sustainability
If you’re concerned about your carbon footprint, look for products that contain a higher percentage of recycled plastic and are easily recyclable once their useful life is through. A higher-quality can will last longer and will be less likely to be thrown away.
Related questions
1. Are Sensor Garbage Cans Worth It?
Although motion sensor garbage cans appear to be luxurious, they are efficient. They automatically open and close, keeping bacteria and other filth off your hands. The automatic feature may be more practical for those with mobility issues than foot-operated ones.
2. Is Plastic Or Stainless Steel Better For Garbage?
The main advantage that stainless steel can have over plastic cans is that it’s more hygienic. The stainless steel cans are simple to clean, and odors have a hard time permeating the surface. This provides your office a much fresher vibe and generates a more cheerful working environment automatically.
3. What Is The Most Expensive Trash Can?
Sylvie Fleury, a modern pop artist, created the world’s most costly garbage cans. These ‘high-end’ trash cans are constructed of steel that has been pressed with gold leaf. Each one is stamped with “SF 2003” and its unique number on the bottom and is available in a limited edition of 25 pieces.
4. Is There A Smart Trash Can?
Yes, there are intelligent trash cans. These cans provide the creativity and technology that makes disposing of trash and recyclables efficient and straightforward. These intelligent cans have touch-free motion sensors that open the lid automatically when you get close enough, making them completely hands-free.