Written by Meaghan Faber
Published: 08 Feb 2024
Reviewed by Camryn Rabideau
When it comes to saving water and being eco-friendly, having a rain barrel is a great idea. 9 Best Rain Barrels can help you collect rainwater and use it to water your plants or wash your car. They come in different sizes and materials, so you can choose the one that fits your needs. In this article, we'll explore some of the top rain barrels available on the market, and how they can help you conserve water and save money.
Overall Score: 9/10
The FCMP Outdoor RC4000 50-Gallon Rain Catcher Barrel is a heavy-duty outdoor water container with spigots and mesh screen. It is designed for easy installation and comes with multiple useful accessories. The product is made in Canada and constructed of durable BPA-free polyethylene plastic.
Key Features
- Outdoor rain collection water catchers are designed with large openings and a flat back for easy installation
- Spigots on the side allow for connecting multiple barrels together for expanded storage capacity
- Aluminum mesh screen keeps out debris to keep water clear
- Includes debris screen, garden hose, shut-off thumb valve, hanging hose clips, overflow hose, and linking kit
- Made in Canada
Specifications
- Color: Brown
- Dimension: 24.00Lx24.00Wx32.00H
- Size: RC4000 (50 gal)
Pros
- Sturdy and attractive barrel-like design
- Can be linked to other barrels to increase capacity
- Stylish with a screen to keep out bugs and critters
Cons
- Thin, cheaply made plastic
- May leak during heavy rain
- Overflow hose is smaller than the downspout, causing potential overflow issues
The FCMP Outdoor RC4000 50-Gallon Rain Catcher Barrel is a stylish and sturdy product that effectively collects rainwater. It comes with useful features and accessories, making it a convenient addition to any outdoor space. However, the quality of the plastic construction and potential overflow issues during heavy rain are notable drawbacks to consider.
Overall Score: 7/10
The Rain Wizard Urn 50 Gallon Rain Barrel in Light Granite is a stylish and practical option for anyone looking to conserve water. Its urn shape adds a touch of class while its self-draining planter top makes it functional as well as beautiful. The flat back design makes it perfect for sitting against any outside wall, and the meshed screen blocks debris from entering the water supply. Although some users have reported issues like leaks and difficulty assembling the spigots, many have enjoyed using this rain barrel for their gardens and landscaping needs.
Key Features
- 50 Gallon capacity: True
- Urn shape adds class and style: True
- Self-draining planter top: True
- Meshed screen blocks debris: True
- Flat back design: True
Specifications
- Color: Light Granite
- Dimension: 22.00Lx23.00Wx30.00H
- Size: 50 gallon
Pros
- Stylish urn shape
- Self-draining planter top
- Flat back design
- Meshed screen blocks debris
Cons
- Reports of leaks
- Some users had assembly difficulties
The Rain Wizard Urn 50 Gallon Rain Barrel offers a stylish and functional option for rainwater conservation. While there have been some reports of leaks and assembly difficulties, many users have found it to be a great addition to their gardens and landscaping. The urn shape and self-draining planter top add a touch of class, making it a practical and attractive choice for water conservation.
Overall Score: 6/10
The Rhino CLEARMATE Collapsible Rain Barrel is a portable rainwater collection system designed to save water and provide an efficient solution for watering your garden. With a 100-gallon capacity, it is made from heavy-duty materials and features a well-thought-out design for experienced gardeners. The collapsible barrel is lightweight, portable, and easy to assemble, making it an ideal gift for gardening enthusiasts. However, it has received mixed reviews regarding leakage and durability, particularly in freezing temperatures. Overall, it offers a convenient and environmentally conscious way to collect and utilize rainwater for gardening purposes.
Key Features
- Save water big time with up to 40% savings on water bills
- Light and portable collapsible design for easy handling and transport
- Well thought-out design with ultra-dense mesh, additional faucet, and overflow pipe
- Leakage ruled out with heavy-duty 500D fabric and 0.55 mm UV-inhibited PVC coating
- Makes a great gift for gardening enthusiasts
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Size: 100 Gallons
Pros
- Efficient way to save water and reduce water bills
- Easy to assemble and transport
- Well-thought-out design for experienced gardeners
- Durable materials with a two-year warranty
- Ideal gift for gardening enthusiasts
Cons
- Mixed reviews regarding leakage and durability
- May not survive freezing temperatures as stated in the product description
The Rhino CLEARMATE Rain Barrel offers an environmentally conscious and convenient solution for collecting and utilizing rainwater to water your garden. Its portable and collapsible design, along with a 100-gallon capacity, make it a handy addition for gardening enthusiasts. However, potential concerns about leakage and durability, particularly in freezing temperatures, should be considered before making a purchase decision.
Overall Score: 7/10
The VEVOR 53 Gallon Collapsible Rain Barrel is a portable rainwater collection system that can be used to collect rainwater from your gutter. It's a sustainable solution for watering your garden or lawn, and it's easy to use, with a PVC construction that prevents leaks. The black color and 53-gallon size make it a versatile storage option, and it can be easily folded and stored when not in use. Despite some issues with customer service and durability, it's generally received positive feedback from customers for its functionality and ease of use.
Key Features
- Rainwater recycling
- Easy to use
- 1000D PVC barrel
- No leaks
- Collapsible & reusable
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 23.60Lx23.60Wx29.10H
- Size: 53Gallon
Pros
- Sustainable rainwater solution
- Durable PVC construction
- Foldable and reusable
- No leaks
Cons
- Durability issues with feet and poles
- Some customers experienced leakage
- Poor customer service
The VEVOR 53 Gallon Collapsible Rain Barrel is a convenient and sustainable solution for collecting rainwater, with a durable PVC design that prevents leaks. It’s easy to use and store, making it a versatile option for garden and lawn care. While there have been some reported issues with durability and customer service, the overall feedback from customers has been positive.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Gardener's Supply Company Rainwater Collection Urn is a stylish, shapely, and high-quality rain barrel made of UV-stabilized polyethylene, perfect for storing free and chlorine-free rainwater for gardens and household use. It comes with a sturdy brass spigot, a 5-foot hose with shut-off valve, and a removable top for easy access. The barrel holds 65 gallons of water and has an appealing matte textured finish, making it a decorative piece for your outdoor space.
Key Features
- Sturdy UV-stabilized polyethylene
- 20" top diameter x 45-1/2" H
- Holds 65 gallons of water
- Made of UV-stable, scratch- and chip-resistant polyethylene
- Comes with a 5-foot hose and quality spigot
- Not for drinking water use
Specifications
- Color: Terra Cotta
- Dimension: 25.00Lx25.00Wx45.50H
Pros
- Stylish and shapely design
- High-quality construction and materials
- Sturdy brass spigot and 5-foot hose with shut-off valve
- Removable top for easy access
Cons
- Some customers received damaged products
- Challenging to assemble for some users
- Price could be more competitive
The Gardener’s Supply Company Rainwater Collection Urn is a reliable and stylish option for those looking to conserve rainwater for gardening and household use. With high-quality construction and a capacity of 65 gallons, it offers both functionality and aesthetics. While some users experienced issues with assembly and product quality, the overall feedback is positive, making it a great addition to any outdoor space.
Overall Score: 7/10
The FCMP Outdoor RC45-BLK Rain Barrel is a 45-gallon water rain catcher ideal for watering outdoor plants, gardens, and landscapes. Made of 100% recycled UV-inhibited BPA-free polyethylene, this rain barrel comes with a debris screen and hose for easy installation. It features a safety rib on top to keep children and pets safe, a corrosion-resistant screen to keep out debris, and a flat back to make it easier to install and place downspouts. Despite some complaints about leaking hoses, the barrel is praised for its sturdiness, construction, and functionality.
Key Features
- 45 gal (170 L) capacity
- Includes debris screen, garden hose, shut-off thumb valve, hanging hose clip
- Shallower depth and flat back for easy installation
- Safety rib ensures child and pet safety
- Corrosion-resistant screen keeps out debris
- Constructed of 100% recycled, UV-inhibited, BPA-free polyethylene
- Made in Canada
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 19.50Lx22.00Wx31.50H
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Collects water effectively
- Easy to set up and use
Cons
- Some complaints about leaking hoses
- Instructions may not be clear to some
The FCMP Outdoor RC45-BLK Rain Barrel is a reliable and eco-friendly solution for collecting rainwater. While there are some concerns about leaking hoses, the overall construction and functionality make it a good choice for those looking to conserve water. The capacity, safety features, and ease of setup make it a worthwhile investment for any outdoor watering needs.
Overall Score: 7/10
The Rihogar 65 Gallon Rain Barrel Water Tank is a collapsible rain water collection system designed to be a portable water storage solution for your garden, lawn, or farm. It is made from high-quality, anti-corrosion PVC and can hold approximately 65 gallons of rainwater. The barrel is leak-proof, foldable, and more durable than traditional alternatives. It also promotes environmental protection and economy, helping you conserve water and save money. The product has received a customer rating of 3.9 out of 5.
Key Features
- 65 Gallons & Reusable
- Leak-Proof
- Foldable & High-Quality
- Stability & Safe
- Economy and Environmental Protection
Specifications
- Size: 65 Gallon
Pros
- Reusable & high-quality materials
- Leak-proof design
- Promotes environmental protection and economy
Cons
- Topples over when empty
- May have a chemical smell
- Lightweight and portable
- Concerns about filling up properly
The Rihogar 65 Gallon Rain Barrel Water Tank is a convenient and sustainable solution for collecting and reusing rainwater. It is a reliable and high-quality product. However, it may have some stability and odor issues. Overall, it presents a valuable option for those looking to conserve water and promote environmental sustainability in their homes.
Overall Score: 6/10
The VIVOSUN Collapsible Rain Barrel is a convenient and sustainable way to collect and conserve rainwater. Made of sturdy 1000D PVC mesh cloth, it can hold 53 gallons of water and comes with a high-flow spigot for easy access. With its intricate design, easy assembly, and extra accessories, it's perfect for gardening and saving money on water bills. However, some users have reported issues with water drainage and the material's durability.
Key Features
- Collect & Repurpose Rainwater
- Sturdy Materials
- Intricate Design
- Easy Assembly
- Extra Accessories
Specifications
- Color: Green
- Size: 53 Gallon
Pros
- High-quality materials
- Convenient for gardening
- Easy to assemble
- Extra accessories included
Cons
- Issues with water drainage
- Durability concerns
- Flimsy top design
The VIVOSUN Collapsible Rain Barrel is a practical solution for sustainable water collection. While it offers great features and easy assembly, it has some drawbacks regarding water drainage and durability. Overall, it’s a good option for environmentally conscious gardeners and homeowners looking to save on water costs.
Overall Score: 8/10
The RTS Companies Inc Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Water Collection Barrel is ideal for collection rainwater to ease water shortage during droughts. It is made of 100% recycled plastic and comes with a plastic screen to keep out debris and a plastic spigot shut off valve for hose hook up with dual overflow. It has a customer rating of 4.4/5 on Amazon, and the product dimensions are 24 x 19 x 34 inches with an item weight of 18 pounds.
Key Features
- Embrace nature's solution to water shortage
- Made of 100% recycled plastic
- Plastic screen to keep out debris
- Plastic spigot shut off valve with dual overflow
Specifications
- Color: Black
- Dimension: 24.00Lx19.00Wx34.00H
- Size: 50-Gallon
Pros
- Made with 100% recycled plastic
- Includes a plastic screen to keep out debris
- Comes with a plastic spigot shut off valve
- Dual overflow feature
Cons
- Plastic spigot may have durability issues
The RTS 50-Gallon ECO Rain Water Collection Barrel is a great solution for collecting rainwater and combating water shortage. It offers a user-friendly design with durable recycled plastic construction. While there have been some reported issues with the plastic spigot, overall, this rain barrel has received positive feedback and serves its purpose effectively.
Buyer's Guide: Top Rated Rain Barrels
What to Look for in a Rain Barrel:
- Capacity: Consider how much water you want to collect and choose a rain barrel with the right capacity for your needs.
- Material: Look for rain barrels made of high-quality, UV-resistant materials like polyethylene or galvanized steel to ensure durability.
- Overflow System: Make sure the rain barrel has an overflow system to prevent flooding during heavy rain.
- Screen or Filter: A screen or filter will help to keep debris and insects out of the barrel, ensuring cleaner water.
- Spigot and Hose Attachments: Look for a rain barrel with a sturdy spigot and hose attachments for easy access to the collected water.
- Aesthetics: If the appearance of the rain barrel is important to you, consider options that are designed to be visually appealing or can be easily concealed.
- Installation: Consider the ease of installation and whether the rain barrel comes with any necessary accessories or instructions.
Benefits of Using a Rain Barrel:
- Conserves Water: Using a rain barrel allows you to collect and store rainwater, reducing the need for municipal water for outdoor use.
- Reduces Runoff: By capturing rainwater, you can help prevent soil erosion and reduce runoff that can carry pollutants into waterways.
- Saves Money: Using collected rainwater for gardening and lawn care can lead to savings on water bills.
- Supports Plant Health: Rainwater is free of chemicals, making it an ideal source of water for plants.
- Eco-Friendly: Using a rain barrel reduces your reliance on treated water, which is beneficial for the environment.
Tips for Maintenance and Usage:
- Regular Cleaning: To maintain water quality, clean the rain barrel regularly to remove debris and algae buildup.
- Use for Outdoor Watering: Use the water collected in the rain barrel for watering plants, gardens, and lawns.
- Winterizing: In colder climates, be sure to drain and store the rain barrel during winter to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.
- Monitor Water Level: Keep an eye on the water level in the rain barrel and use the collected water to avoid overflow.
- Positioning: Place the rain barrel under a downspout to maximize water collection and ensure proper drainage away from the foundation of your home.
FAQs About Rain Barrels:
Q: Can I drink the water from a rain barrel?A: No, collected rainwater is not typically safe for drinking unless it undergoes filtration and treatment.Q: Will using a rain barrel attract mosquitoes?A: Properly designed rain barrels include screens or filters to prevent mosquitoes from breeding in the stored water.Q: Are rain barrels difficult to install?A: Many rain barrels are designed for easy DIY installation, often requiring only basic tools and a downspout diverter.Q: How do I know when the rain barrel is full?A: Some rain barrels include a built-in overflow system, while others may have a clear panel or water level indicator to monitor the fill level.
Additional Considerations:
- Local Regulations: Before purchasing and installing a rain barrel, check local regulations or homeowner association rules to ensure compliance.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the rain barrel is compatible with your existing gutter system and downspouts.
Remember, choosing the right rain barrel can help you harness the power of nature to conserve water and support a more sustainable way of life. Happy harvesting!
Frequently Asked Questions about 9 Best Rain Barrels
You can benefit from using a rain barrel by collecting rainwater to use for watering your garden, saving money on your water bill, and reducing water runoff.
No, rain barrels are not difficult to set up. They usually come with easy-to-follow instructions and require minimal tools and effort to install.
No, the water collected in a rain barrel is not recommended for drinking as it may contain contaminants from the roof and gutter system.
Yes, using a rain barrel helps to conserve water and reduce the strain on local water supplies, which in turn helps the environment.
You should regularly maintain your rain barrel by cleaning the filter, checking for leaks, and ensuring proper drainage to keep it functioning effectively.
Was this page helpful?
Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.