They may be necessary, but bins scarcely look good when left alone. And as Labour councils introduce recycling schemes in thousands of UK homes that require up to eight bins, they can become a real burden to the exterior appearance of a home.
Practical and Affordable Solutions
Luckily, there are practical solutions that can conceal them - and don't break the bank. Speaking to the Daily Mail, Jordana Ashkenazi, founder and design director of Element One House, revealed her best tips and tricks.
'Outside bins are one of those unavoidable parts of modern life, especially in cities, but that doesn't mean they need to dominate the front of your home visually,' she said. 'There are now so many different styles of bin storage available, depending on the look of the property and the budget.'
From simple timber screening through to fully integrated bespoke joinery, it's less about spending a fortune and more about choosing something that works aesthetically with the home. 'The key is making bin storage blend into the aesthetic of the property as naturally as possible. Otherwise, it can just end up looking like a shed dumped on a porch or driveway,' Ashkenazi added.
Timber Slatted Storage
Timber slatted storage is the most classic option for covering unsightly bins, according to the expert. She explained: 'Timber slatted storage is probably the most timeless because it blends naturally into gardens and fencing and softens the overall look visually.'
'They are ultimately still boxy structures, so softening them with surrounding plants, shrubs, natural stone or even painting them in tones that complement the property can make a huge difference visually.' TikTok account @woodson.stores shared their take on timber storage, with viewers agreeing it looked 'fabulous'.
Built-in Joinery
If you want to go the extra mile, consider built-in joinery for disguising your bins. While it might be a pricier option, the structure can be made to match the home, giving a seamless appearance. Jordana said: 'Built-in joinery or painted storage units that match the exterior of the home can also work beautifully because they feel more integrated architecturally rather than looking like an afterthought.'
Black Metal Storage
If you have a modern house or want to go for something bolder, black metal is a good option. Many of these sturdier options come with lockable doors, meaning that, as well as adding a decorative touch, they can also keep out critters. 'For more contemporary homes, sleek composite or black metal storage can work well too, particularly when paired with modern landscaping and lighting,' the expert said.
Functionality and Maintenance
The priority for bin covers should be functionality, said Jordana. 'Bin storage needs to be extremely accessible and easy to use because, realistically, nobody enjoys dealing with rubbish.' She recommends front-opening storage over lift-up lids for ease of use.
She also stressed the importance of maintenance: 'If you're going to conceal bins, you really do need to be prepared to keep the area clean because enclosed spaces can trap smells, moisture and bacteria very quickly. Ventilation is incredibly important, especially in cities where poorly maintained storage can become a breeding ground for rodents.'
Regularly washing the bins themselves, hosing down the storage area and using disinfectant or deodorising products makes a huge difference. 'Concealed bin storage is still absolutely the nicer option aesthetically, but it works best when it's practical, easy to access and properly maintained.'
Don't be afraid of getting creative with them, Jordana says, and planting flowers on top can be a great way to make them look good - and the soil can help take the heat off of the bins during the summer months.
