If you have a large yard, garden, or simply a lot of landscaping, you might be thinking about investing in a rain barrel. These are a perfect addition for anyone with a green thumb, but how do you know which one to get?
The truth is, there are many different rain barrels on the market, and many of them have options that you might not have thought of.
We have done the hard work for you, though, and we have jumped into the research, conducted reviews, and can tell you more about the best rain barrels on the market.
Table of Contents
- 7 Reasons You Should Install a Rain Barrel
- The 10 Best Rain Barrels for Garden and Yard
- Best Rain Barrel Systems Reviewed
- 1. RTS Companies Inc Home Accents ECO Rain Water Collection Barrel
- 2. Good Ideas Rain Wizard Plastic Rain Barrel Water Collector
- 3. VINGLI Collapsible Rain Barrel
- 4. FCMP Outdoor Rain Catcher RC4000 Rain Barrel
- 5. Enviro World EWC FreeGarden Rain Barrel
- 6. Augason Farms Water Storage Barrel
- 7. Suncast Durable Resin Rain Barrel with Hose
- 8. Rain Barrel, DIY Kit, Used Food Grade Barrel
- 9. Earth Minded Rain Station
- 10. Good Ideas Impressions Palm Rain Barrel
- What to Look For When Choosing a Rain Barrel
- How to Easily Install a Rain Barrel for Your Garden
- How to Use Water from Rain Barrels: Tips + Ideas
- Conclusion
7 Reasons You Should Install a Rain Barrel
You might already know that you want a rain barrel, or you might be a bit skeptical if they are a good investment. Either way, before we get into our choices for the best rain barrels, we want to look at the reasons you should install a rain barrel in the first place:
1. Save Water and Money
The first thing to consider is that you are going to save both water and money when you install a rain barrel. According to the EPA, you can save up to four times the money that you would be spending on water.
2. Rainwater Has Beneficial Nutrients
There is also the fact that rainwater has essential nutrients that your plants will absolutely love. Most people use tap water to water their plants, but not only is it lacking the nutrients that rainwater has, it also has chemicals, which can actually harm some of your plants.
3. No Restrictions
If you live in an area where droughts are prominent, you might be underwater restrictions. With a rain barrel, however, you can water your lawn, your garden, and your landscaping to your heart’s content.
4. You Can Use It for More than Plants
Another reason to collect rain water in rain barrels is because you can use it for more than plants. The water from a rain barrel is perfect for bird baths or for washing your car. You can even use the rain barrel itself as a garden accessory.
5. Reduce Run Off
If you live in an urban area, the rain that falls can create run off into natural waterways. The water that flows into local rivers, lakes, and streams contain pollution like silt, concrete, asphalt, and even trash. By collecting the rain water instead, you can play a small part to stop it.
6. Protect Your Foundation
Yet another benefit of using a rain barrel is that it can help to protection the foundation of your home and even your basement.
The rain from heavy downpours can collect near your foundation and leak through, but with a rain barrel, you can collect this water instead.
7. Help Your Local Community
Finally, when you collect rainwater in a barrel, you can help your local community, as you lessen the amount of water that must be treated for drinking at the local water plant.
The 10 Best Rain Barrels for Garden and Yard
Now that you know the reasons you might want to install a rain barrel, let’s look into the 10 best rain barrels for the garden and the yard:
| Pictures | Rain Barrels | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
 | RTS Companies Inc Home Accents ECO Rain Water Collection Barrel | 50 Gallons |
 | Good Ideas Rain Wizard Plastic Rain Barrel Water Collector | 50 Gallons |
 | VINGLI Collapsible Rain Barrel | 50, 66, 100 Gallons |
 | FCMP Outdoor Rain Catcher RC4000 Rain Barrel | 50 Gallons |
 | Enviro World EWC FreeGarden Rain Barrel | 55 Gallons |
 | Augason Farms Water Storage Barrel | 55 Gallons |
 | Suncast Durable Resin Rain Barrel with Hose | 50 Gallons |
 | Rain Barrel, DIY Kit, Used Food Grade Barrel | 58 Gallons |
 | Earth Minded Rain Station | 45 Gallons |
 | Good Ideas Impressions Palm Rain Barrel | 50 Gallons |
Best Rain Barrel Systems Reviewed
1. RTS Companies Inc Home Accents ECO Rain Water Collection Barrel
This first rain barrel on our list is a well-liked model from RTS Companies Inc. This rainwater collection barrel has a beautiful oak barrel texture, so it looks nice as a garden accessory, too.
Made of 100% recycled plastic, this model holds as much as 50 gallons of water, and it has a plastic screen to allow water in, but keeps insects and debris, like leaves, out.
You can attach a hose to the spigot on the barrel, too, which allows you to easily get the water out and spray it on your garden or lawn, and this barrel comes with an optional stand, which makes hosing off your garden even easier.
This is a good, solid choice for those looking for a simple and easy to use rain barrel that not only looks good, but also performs great.
2. Good Ideas Rain Wizard Plastic Rain Barrel Water Collector
This Rain Wizard plastic rain barrel comes from Good Ideas, and it easily allows you to collect up to 50 gallons of water during the rain.
This rain barrel has a faux wood look, and it includes a brass overflow spout, which ensures that it doesn’t overflow, causing a flooding situation in your yard.
Made of UV-resistant polyethylene, this rain barrel will resist algae, mold, mildew, and rust. Since it’s not actually made of wood, it also won’t rot, nor will it split or crack when the temperatures drop in the winter.
The design of this barrel ensures a flat back, so that you can easily rest it against your home or garage nice and neatly, which saves you room for other garden or yard accessories.
3. VINGLI Collapsible Rain Barrel
Available in three different sizes, 50 gallons, 66 gallons, and 100 gallons, this rain barrel from VINGLI really stands out from the crowd. This is also a collapsible rain barrel, which means you can save a lot of space.
This rain barrel comes with a PVC frame, and it is made with a PVC mesh, which won’t rust nor corrode. Unlike traditional rain barrels, that might be made of materials like PVC or even wood, this one is made of mesh, so it won’t crack, and it will perform well even in the winter.
Each spigot on this barrel comes with two rubber rings, which gives extra protection against leaks. Additionally, there is mesh at the top of the barrel, so you won’t have to worry about insects or leaves getting inside can causing clogs or stagnant water.
The easy to fold design allows you to carry it from one place to another, too.
4. FCMP Outdoor Rain Catcher RC4000 Rain Barrel
This brown rain barrel could be the perfect addition to your garden or yard. This option from FCMP Outdoor has a very large opening, as well as a flat back, which allows you to place it nicely against your home or garage.
Easy to install, the downspout is simple to use, and it has a wheel and spoke pattern at the top, which makes it safe for both children and animals.
In addition, there is an overflow connection to the back of the barrel, which helps to stop any flooding, and you can direct the water away from structures, so you don’t have to worry about water collecting around your foundation.
There is also a debris screen that comes with this barrel, as well as a linking kit, which allows you to connect this barrel to others of equal size.
5. Enviro World EWC FreeGarden Rain Barrel
This rain barrel from Enviro World is an awesome option for people who are looking for an easy-to-use option for collecting water straight from the gutter system.
With a 55-gallon capacity, this rain barrel has a square design, which has a flat back, which makes it perfect for putting in a corner or against a garage or home. It comes in three colors, too.
It is also very strong and durable, and it’s made of high-quality plastic, which is easy to clean and long-lasting. You can literally use it year after year.
If you are looking for an “all included” solution, this is it, as this rain barrel also comes with a brass spigot and extension hose. Additionally, it has a steel, powder-coated screen, as well as locking screws, which help to keep children and pets safe.
6. Augason Farms Water Storage Barrel
When you think of a simple rain barrel, you might find yourself thinking of this one from Augason Farms.
Made of food-grade polyethylene, this rain barrel is blue in color, and it is BPA-free. It also stores up to 55-gallons of water, and it meets EPA guidelines, which are very strict.
If you want to buy more than one of these, they are also easily stackable, and this manufacturer has also designed this barrel to store potable water, too.
This means that if you have a lot of land, these barrels are ideal for fire prevention, water for livestock, or you can even drink the water collected in this barrel in emergencies, as long as you treat the water inside with water-treatment drops.
If in a pinch, this barrel is also appropriate for food storage, too.
7. Suncast Durable Resin Rain Barrel with Hose
This stylish and durable rain barrel option holds and collects up to 50 gallons of water, which helps to protect your lawn, garden, and home.
Made of resin, this taupe-colored rain barrel was made to last for several years. It is square in shape, which means that it fits nicely in a corner or in a space where a round rain barrel might not be appropriate.
It’s not too large, either, measuring 29″ x 29″ x 26″. This barrel comes with flow hoses and a leader, and in addition, it has a debris filter, which keeps out leaves, sticks, and animals.
Finally, this rain barrel is ready to use from the box, and all you have to do is attach the hoses and put it into place. You won’t go wrong with this option from Suncast.
8. Rain Barrel, DIY Kit, Used Food Grade Barrel
If you are seeking out a DIY option, this rain barrel is perfect for you! These barrels are also ideal for people who are interested in green living, as it is a repurposed and recycled barrel, which was originally used to store olives.
It comes with a brand new brass overflow valve and brass spigot, and it has a brand new plastic mesh screen at the top, which is right under the lid, which easily twists on and off.
In addition to all of this, there is a new downspout adapter that comes with this barrel, and you can rest assured that it won’t leak, because even though it is recycled, it is sealed with silicone caulk, which means it is totally waterproof.
Available in the color brown, this barrel can store as much as 55-gallons of water.
9. Earth Minded Rain Station
The smallest rain barrel on our list with a capacity of 45-gallons is this option from the Rain Barrel Company.
Made of polyethylene, this rain barrel is terra cotta in color, and it has a diameter of 23.5 inches. It comes complete with a spigot and diverter kit, too, which means you don’t have to worry about buying any other accessories.
The lid is removable, and it stands at just over 35 inches tall. It comes with a hole saw, too, so you can place the hole where you like. Not sure how to do this? No problem because it also comes with step-by-step directions.
Both the lid and the barrel will last for years, as the company offers a 10-year UV protection warranty on the product.
10. Good Ideas Impressions Palm Rain Barrel
This awesome addition to your garden is not only a rain barrel, but it’s also a planter. This makes it unique amongst all of the other rain barrels on our list.
This rain barrel has a 50-gallon capacity, and it’s available in four different colors. There are two spigots on this barrel, one that can be used as a hose attachment, and the other as a simple spigot.
There is an overflow system on this rain barrel, too, so you won’t have to worry about over filling the barrel. It additionally has a bug and debris spring, which keeps the water as clean as possible.
The best part about this rain barrel is that it is also a planter, so you can place your own plants on the top, which makes it look amazing, no matter where you place it in the garden.
Accessories You’ll Need For Your Rain Barrel System
Fiskars Rain Barrel DiverterPro Kit
One of the accessories that you might want to purchase for your rain barrel system is the DiverterPro kit from Fiskars.
This is a patented design, which channels the overflow water from the barrel away from your home. You don’t want water gathering around your foundation or leaking into your basement. This diverter also helps to capture more rain during a heavier downpour.
Each of these kits fits a standard downspout, and it includes a connector hose, downspout couplers, a filter, and a rain barrel connector. This kit has a warranty, too, so you don’t have to worry about anything. It lasts for three years.
EarthMinded DIY Rain Barrel Diverter and Parts Kit
This accessory is from EarthMinded, and it is a DIY option that includes everything you need to easily build, and then install, this system at your home to collect rainwater.
With this system, you can easily save both water and money, and even reduce your water bill, and offer an environmentally friendly method to your garden and lawn.
This system prevents any overflow, and it automatically allows any excess water to flow out of the downspout away from your home’s foundation.
It is easy to install, and all of the parts are included in this kit. Just keep in mind that this is an accessory to a rain barrel; The rain barrel does not come with this kit.
Oatey Mystic Rainwater Collection Residential Downspouts
We also have this option for those looking for a downspout accessory for your rain barrel. These downspouts are easily installed with your guttering system, and you can use them to seamlessly direct the water from the gutters directly into your rain barrels.
These are made of PVC plastic and are UV-resistant. It comes in two pieces, and you can even paint them to match to color of your existing gutter system and downspout.
Choosing this option means that you are choosing accessories that are compatible with most standard downspouts, and it comes with step-by-step instructions for easy installation.
Finally, these downspouts are environmentally-friendly, and can certainly help you save money.
What to Look For When Choosing a Rain Barrel
If you are ready to buy a rain barrel, you might be wondering what you should look for when choosing one. There are actually a few things that you want to keep in mind.
First, you should make sure that the rain barrel is pet and child-proof. Most of the rain barrels on our list come with screens or lids, which is a great way to ensure animals and children cannot get into the water. They could easily drown.
Another thing that you should look for in a rain barrel is an overflow valve. You don’t want your rain barrel to get too full, as you could soon find yourself in the midst of a flood. If you can find a rain barrel with two overflow systems, that’s even better!
In addition to making sure that the rain barrel is child and pet proof, you should also consider a rain barrel that has a screen. This helps to keep out insects and debris, like leaves and branches. Otherwise, you might find that your spigots get clogged.
You also might consider looking for a rain barrel that you can link to others. Though it might sound like a lot, 55 gallons of water, which is a standard size in regard to rain barrels, the water will go faster than you think. So, consider connecting two or more.
Finally, you want to make sure that you are choosing a rain barrel that is durable and made of strong materials like polyethylene. You should also make sure that the rain barrel comes with a warranty.
How to Easily Install a Rain Barrel for Your Garden
Installing a rain barrel is fairly simple. First, of course, you have to choose one! Once you have your rain barrel, you want to choose a place near a downspout, and then make sure the ground underneath is level and stable.
Many people choose to place bricks to elevate the rain barrel, but some rain barrels actually come with a stand, so if this is the case, you probably don’t have to worry. Place the rain barrel on the stand or bricks, and then mark the spot on your downspout.
Take a hacksaw and cut the downspout where it meets the rain barrel. Just make sure that you save the gutter piece, so that you can reattach it in the winter when you store your rain barrel for the season.
Next, place a flexible elbow at the bottom of the downspout, and then put the other end into the barrel. You can then attach the hoses and overflow spout, and as soon as it rains, you can begin using your water.
Yes, it’s as simple as that! As you can see, it doesn’t require a lot of effort to install a rain barrel on your property.
How to Use Water from Rain Barrels: Tips + Ideas
You might think that the only thing you can do with water from your rain barrel is water your lawn or garden, but there is much more to it than that. There are actually a lot of different things you can do with the water from your rain barrel, including these things:
One of the things that people often use their collected rain water for is washing the car. We don’t often realize how much water we use when washing the car, so using rain water can certainly help.
Another thing you can use your rain water for is cleaning out bottles and cans for recycling. Again, you might not realize how much water you are using each day to rinse out your recyclables, so this can help to offset some of that usage.
If you have an artificial lawn, which many people do, especially in drought-prone areas, you can use the water from your rain barrel to clean the artificial turf. You know that over time, the turf can become dingy and dirty, and if you have pets, it can smell. Clean it with this water.
If you have a patio or deck, this is a perfect water choice to clean those, too. Many people hose off their patios or deck, but they typically take the water directly from the tap. With a rain barrel, you can use the water that has fallen from the sky.
You can also use this water for washing down your outdoor structures like garages, sheds, or animal pens. You can additionally use it to wash things like bicycles, children’s outdoor toys, patio furniture, and much more.
Keep in mind that there are some things that you don’t want to use your rain water for. The first thing to remember is that this water is not great for drinking. In fact, it should be considered non-potable in most cases.
The only exception here is if you buy and use water treatment tablets to treat the water before drinking it. There certainly are rain barrels on our list that say you can drink the water, but you should always play it safe.
You should also not use this collected rainwater to clean any fruits or vegetables, or any food, for that matter, that you might eat. You could, of course, treat the water first, but that is probably just a waste of time and money, since you can get good, clean water from the tap.
Though there are many benefits to using rainwater for its intended purpose, if you use it for food, or you ingest too much of it, you could get sick since it is not treated. For example, this rainwater could contain bacteria that could make you sick.
Conclusion
Collecting rainwater can be very helpful to the environment, and you can save a lot of money and water, which helps the environment as a whole. The very best way that you can collect this water is by using a rain barrel, like the ones we have presented above.
There are many great options on the market, all at different price points and with different features. None of them are extremely expensive, and the good thing is that it will pay for itself once you begin saving money on your water bill.
With rain barrels of all different types and sizes, you can easily find the perfect one for your home and garden needs. Start shopping and see the difference one of these rain barrels can bring to your life.
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