I get this question a lot should I paint the totes... what type of pain should I use what about wrapping them in plastic... its really quite simple a lot of people overthink things... 

Tool Requirements 

Drill with a T 30 star bit 

Spray-paint

Sander

Sandpaper 100 grit 


4-6 cans of a plastic friendly paint 

Prepping the tote

Prep work includes using some soap and water however using a plastic primer paint 

Start by wiping down the plastic surface with mineral spirits or rubbing alcohol...

Using a fine-grit sanding block, lightly sand the surface to a dull finish. This will ensure a higher bond with the paint 

Or you can go the other easy route after you soap and water it just simply paint it. 

Now for paint (taping a water level) 

Do lots of light passes from different angles down try to get it all done on one pass. 

Tip: Try to keep the wind at your back if you can move the piece do so it saves paint and keeps the fumes from blowing back at you...

Once your done painting check by looking at the sun through the side of it you can see the missed areas its best to go over with another can ...

Wait about 48 hrs before putting the tote back in the cage... if you rush it you could scratch off the paint. 

Now you can see how much of a difference a little bit of paint can do. This will not only look great but also keep down the algae that can contaminate a water supply as well as protect the plastic from the UV rays.