Iroko, Oak or Cedar? Which Timber Litter Bin Material is Best for Your Outdoor Space?

Timber litter bins are a popular choice for councils, landscape architects, and commercial outdoor spaces across the UK. But when it comes to choosing the right wood type for litter bins, the decision isn’t always straightforward. Should you go for the exotic durability of Iroko, the timeless elegance of Oak, or the naturally fragrant Cedar?

In this blog, we break down the key benefits and considerations for each timber type, helping you choose the best wooden litter bin for your environment, budget, and long-term needs.

Why Timber Type Matters for Outdoor Litter Bins

Key Factors to Consider

When selecting the right wood for a litter bin, you’ll want to consider:

• Durability in UK weather

• Aesthetic appeal in different urban or rural settings

• Maintenance needs

• Sustainability and sourcing

• Cost vs. lifespan

The type of wood can greatly impact how long your bin lasts and how it blends into the surrounding environment, whether it’s a modern city centre, woodland trail, or school campus.

Iroko Timber Litter Bins – The Hardwearing Favourite

Iroko wood is a dense hardwood native to West Africa. It’s one of the most popular timbers for external furniture in the UK thanks to its impressive resistance to rot, insects, and wear.

Key Benefits of Iroko

• Naturally weather-resistant – ideal for coastal areas and high rainfall regions

• Low maintenance – does not require regular sealing or painting

• Rich golden-brown colour that darkens beautifully over time

• FSC-certified options available for eco-conscious projects

Best suited for: High-footfall public areas like parks, university campuses, and council-owned spaces.

Oak Timber Litter Bins – Classic British Style

Oak is a traditional hardwood that has long been used in British furniture and construction. It’s well-known for its strength and attractive grain pattern.

Key Benefits of Oak

• Durable and dense – stands up well to the British climate

• Natural appearance suits heritage or conservation areas

• Can be treated or left untreated for a weathered silver finish

• Readily available from UK sources, reducing carbon footprint

Best suited for: Heritage sites, town centres, woodland trails, and rural locations looking for a classic, timeless look.

Cedar Timber Litter Bins – Naturally Fragrant & Lightweight

Cedar is a softwood known for its aromatic scent and resistance to decay. While less dense than Iroko or Oak, it’s ideal for lighter use areas and projects focused on sustainability.

Key Benefits of Cedar

• Naturally resistant to rot, insects and moisture

• Lightweight and easy to handle or relocate

• Distinctive reddish tones with a pleasant smell

• Often used in recycling bin enclosures or low-traffic green spaces

Best suited for: Nature reserves, community gardens, playgrounds, and eco developments.

Which Timber Bin Is Right for You?

If you’re managing a public space, working on a commercial landscaping project, or specifying bins for a new build development, choosing the right timber will ensure long-lasting use and visual harmony.

• Choose Iroko if you need high durability and minimal maintenance.

• Choose Oak for heritage value and a classic finish.

• Choose Cedar for its eco benefits and natural appearance.

Not sure which to choose? Contact our team for expert advice and recommendations tailored to your project.

Buy Timber Litter Bins Online from Orchard Street Furniture

At Orchard Street Furniture, we offer a wide range of timber litter bins for sale all designed to withstand the UK climate and support sustainable urban design.

We supply:

• FSC-certified timber bins

• Galvanised liners with locking options

• Custom branding and finish options

• Fast UK-wide delivery for bulk and trade orders

Whether you’re buying for a local authority, school, business park, or housing development, we’re here to help you find the perfect solution.

Take a look at our range of litter bins, here…