The Effect of Sunlight on Plastic Durability

When evaluating the long-term performance of any plastic household item, one key environmental factor to consider is exposure to sunlight. For products like a Folding Plastic Drain Basket, which are often left near windowsills, outdoor sinks, or even carried to campsites and patios, the concern about plastic aging due to UV radiation becomes particularly relevant. Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) rays, which are known to interact with synthetic polymers. Over time, this interaction can break down the chemical structure of certain plastics, resulting in discoloration, reduced elasticity, surface cracking, and ultimately, brittleness. This natural aging process, referred to as photodegradation, varies in severity depending on the type of plastic used and the duration and frequency of exposure to direct sunlight.

Types of Plastic and Their Resistance to UV Damage

The degree to which a Folding Plastic Drain Basket will be affected by sun exposure largely depends on its material composition. Many of these baskets are made from polypropylene or polyethylene, both of which are relatively lightweight and cost-effective; however, neither is particularly resistant to UV radiation without the addition of protective additives. If the manufacturer includes stabilizers or UV-resistant compounds during the molding process, the plastic will withstand sunlight far better. However, not all baskets on the market are treated with such protection. Some cheaper or unbranded models may omit these additives entirely, resulting in faster degradation when placed in bright environments. After just a few months of exposure, users may notice a change in the plastic’s color, stiffness, and flexibility, signaling the early stages of material fatigue.

Signs of Aging in Sun-Exposed Plastics

As the plastic ages under UV exposure, several visible and structural changes may occur. Fading or yellowing of the original color is typically the first sign, especially in brightly colored baskets. Over time, the surface of the plastic may develop fine cracks or become chalky to the touch. These are early indicators that the polymer chains in the plastic are breaking down. If the basket continues to be used in this condition, these micro-cracks may deepen and lead to snapping or fragmentation under normal stress, such as when folding or holding heavy produce. The once-flexible plastic may also become rigid, losing the ability to bend or compress smoothly without cracking—a serious concern for a product designed around repeated folding motion.

Preventative Measures to Reduce Sun Damage

To extend the life of a Folding Plastic Drain Basket and reduce the risk of it becoming brittle, it is advisable to limit direct sunlight exposure whenever possible. After cleaning or draining food, the basket should be placed in a shaded area or stored indoors, away from windows that receive intense sunlight. If outdoor use is necessary, selecting a model that clearly states UV resistance or includes protective treatments is a smarter long-term investment. Some baskets even include silicone or rubber-coated edges, which are more UV-stable and help reinforce high-stress areas. Users should also inspect the basket periodically for signs of wear, especially if it is frequently used outdoors or near sunlit sinks.

Name: Folding trash can

Mould material: S136

Mould base: P20 steel

Cavity NO: 1+1

Product material: PP+TPR

Runner: Hot/cold

Mould life: 1 million~3 million shots

Delivery time: 35~50days