Concrete litter bins

Concrete litter bins stand out for their exceptional durability and resistance to mechanical damage and vandalism. Their solid construction suits high-traffic locations and sites where a long service life without replacement is the priority.

They are one of the subcategories of the street and park litter bins section, alongside metal, timber and cast-iron models.

The look of architectural concrete fits well with modern street furniture.

The considerable weight of a concrete litter bin also helps stop it being knocked over or moved by accident. This matters where the bin stands close to a footway and is in heavy use. Take the weight into account when planning transport, as unloading may require additional equipment.

Our range includes bins in architectural concrete with a smooth, polished surface, as well as exposed aggregate concrete models, where the visible texture of the aggregate gives the bin a rawer, industrial character. The choice of finish is often an aesthetic decision matched to the surroundings. Smooth concrete suits modern buildings, while exposed aggregate works well in parks and historic settings.

Most concrete litter bins have a removable metal or plastic inner liner, which makes emptying and cleaning much easier. Operatives do not have to handle the whole heavy concrete body. They simply lift out the lighter liner and put it back once the bag has been emptied.

A concrete surface resists vandalism relatively well compared with painted sheet metal. Where graffiti is a concern, however, it is worth applying an anti-graffiti coating during production. This makes later cleaning easier, with no need to grind or repaint the surface.

Because of their weight, concrete litter bins less often need additional anchoring to the ground. This makes installation simpler than with lightweight metal designs that have to be permanently fixed, and it is one reason why public space managers who value straightforward installation and low failure rates often choose them.

Concrete litter bins are also available with drainage holes in the base, which let out rainwater that gets in with the waste. This prevents the contents from rotting and smelling after prolonged rain. It is especially important in bins without a removable inner bag, where water could otherwise sit at the bottom for a long time.

When the delivery arrives, check straight away for small surface cracks, which can occur when a heavy concrete unit is transported. The manufacturer usually covers this type of damage under warranty, provided it is reported immediately after unloading and not after the first season outdoors.