What is the Best Rain Barrel for your Gardening Need?
I get this question all the time. It can be tough though because there are so many similar products on the market offering similar benefits!
The below list is ranked from Best Rain Barrels to Great Rain Barrels to Good Rain Barrels.
And I recommend scrolling to the bottom of the page to find answers to 8 Frequently Asked Questions that can help you make the best purchase possible!
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12 Best Rain Barrels
The below Rain Barrels are first ranked by Best to Great to Good. No matter your budget, you’ll find something that will meet your needs!
The BEST Rain Barrels (#1-5)
1. Good Ideas Rain Wizard Barrel
- Size: 50 Gallons
- Material: BPA-free & UV-Resistant Plastic
- Features: Brass Spigot, Debris Screen
- # of Overflows: 1
From all of my research, the Good Ideas Rain Wizard Rain Barrel is the Best Rain Barrel on the market!
Some of its features
In addition, you can connect this rain barrel with other Rain Wizard Rain Barrels.
And it is easy to assemble, is incredibly durable, and holds up for years in freezing winters outside.
2. RTS Home Accents Water Barrel
- Size: 50 Gallons
- Material: Heavy-Duty Plastic
- Features: Aluminum Debris Screen, Brass Spigot
- # of Overflows: 2
Coming in at a close second for the Best Rain Barrel is the RTS Home Accents Rain Barrel. You really can’t go wrong with anything made by RTS Company.
It is made with heavy-duty plastic and has an authentic oak barrel texture look. This look will not fade nor deteriorate due to insects or other pests. It also has a flat back to help save space.
In addition, it has a brass spigot and dual overflows (in front and side) to help prevent flooding into the foundation of your house.
Finally, you can purchase a patented optional stand to keep your rain barrel steady during wind and bad weather.
3. Good Ideas Palm Rain Barel
- Size: 65 Gallons
- Material: Heavy-Duty Plastic
- Features: Self-Draining Planter Top, Debris Screen, Dual-Spigots,
- # of Overflows: 1
The Good Ideas Palm Rain Barrel and is perfect if you are interested in adding decor to your yard.
This rain barrel comes in different sizes and colors. It is made with heavy-duty plastic and has a self-draining planter top.
In addition, it includes dual spigots to allow you to use a hose and spigot at the same time.
4. Enviro World Rain Barrel
- Size: 55 Gallons
- Material: High-Quality Molded Plastic
- Features: Child-Locking Lid, Extension Hose, Steel Debris Screen
- # of Overflows: 1 (hose)
Are you looking for an eco-friendly rain barrel? If so, the Enviro World Rain Barrel is your choice for Best Rain Barrel!
It comes in a size of 55 gallons and is made with high-quality molded plastic that keeps it looking new and fresh for years.
In addition, it has a brass spigot, an extension hose, a steel screen, and a child locking lid!
Your favorite part about this rain barrel though will be that no base is needed, which means it can be placed anywhere!
5. Algreen Rainwater Rain Barrel
- Size: 65 Gallons
- Material: BPA-Free Plastic
- Features: Can link to other rain barrels, brass spigot
- # of Overflows: 2
The Algreen
It comes in numerous sizes and is made with an elegant design that has authentic pottery like texture.
Some of its features include a brass spigot, dual water overflows, and can be linked to other rain barrels.
Finally, it has a bottom fitting attachment which allows for access to 100% of water within the rain barrel.
Great Rain Barrels (#6-9)
If you want a great rain barrel that is less inexpensive than the BEST rain barrels and still comes with a lot of features then the below list is for YOU!
6. Fiskars Rain Barrel
- Size: 60 Gallons
- Material: Recyclable Plastic
- Features: Downspout diverter, Plastic Spigot, Lifetime Warranty
- # of Overflows: 2
The Fiskars Rain Barrel is a great option for gardeners who are looking for a simple setup.
It comes with a barrel cover that looks identically the same as the rest of the barrel. In addition, it has a downspout diverter, instead of a connector.
Not only this, but its plastic body is impact resistant.
The major drawback is that it comes with a plastic spigot instead of a brass spigot. This may cause issues if you keep your barrel outside over winter.
One of the best features of this Rain Barrel is that it comes with a lifetime warranty. This should be the only rain barrel you need.
7. Algreen Agua Rain Barrel
- Size: 50 Gallons
- Material: BPA-Free Plastic
- Features: hose, corrosion-proof debris screen, bottom-fitting attachment
- # of Overflows: 2
Talk about unique! This rain barrel has an elegant design with an authentic granite look.
Some of its unique features include a 4-foot hose, corrosion-proof screen, and a bottom-fitting attachment.
If you are looking for a dual overflow then it has it.
While again the price is a little high compared to competitors, it should have everything a gardener wants in the Best Rain Barrels.
8. FCMP Outdoor Rain Catcher
- Size: 50 Gallons
- Material: Heavy-Duty Plastic
- Features: Debris Screen, Garden Hose, Shut-Off Valve
- # of Overflows: 2
If you are looking for one of the Best Rain Barrels out there then check out FCMP Outdoor Rain Catcher.
It comes with features such as spigots on the side to connect multiple rain barrels. Also, it has a debris screen, garden hose, shut off valve, and hanging hose clip.
In addition, it has an overflow feature in the back that allows excess water to flow down and under the barrel and away from the house.
FCMP makes great products, including composters. If you are interested in a Tumbler Composter then I recommend reading my article: Yimby Tumbler Composter: 5 Reasons to Buy!
9. Upcycle Rain Barrel
- Size: 55 Gallons
- Material: Heavy-Duty, BPA-Free Plastic
- Features: Mesh Debris Screen
- # of Overflows: 2
If you want a rain barrel that comes with all the essentials then buy the Upcycle Rain Barrel
It has two bottom spigots. It can be linked with other Rain Barrels.
Also, it has a lid and a mesh screen to prevent mosquitos and other insects from getting in.
Good Rain Barrels (#10-12)
If you are just getting started into gardening or want an inexpensive rain barrel that has basic features then I recommend buying one of the BELOW Rain Barrels.
10. Koolatron Koolscapes Rain Barrel
- Size: 55 Gallons
- Material: UV-Resistant Plastic
- Features: Corrosion-Proof Screen, Brass Spigot
- # of Overflows: 1
If you are looking for a 55-gallon rain barrel that looks like stone (but made with plastic) then this is a great choice!
Made with UV resistant material, this rain barrel can withstand almost any temperature!
Some of the features include corrosion-proof screen guard, overflow spout, and a brass spigot.
11. Emergency Essentials Water Barrel
- Size: 55 Gallons
- Material: BPA-Free Plastic
- Features: Plastic that prevents bacteria
- # of Overflows: 1
If you are looking for one easiest Rain Barrels to install then you have found it here.
This is as basic as a rain barrel that you will find on the list. It is ready to use, incredibly durable, and restricts light.
In addition, this rain barrel is one of the best in helping control the
12. GoPlus Portable Rain Barrel
- Size: 50 Gallons
- Material: PVC Mesh Cloth
- Features: Aluminum Debris Screen, Brass Spigot
- # of Overflows: 1
If you are looking for the most portable rain barrel on the list then you have found it! It is made with mesh cloth and PVC that is foldable to store and carry.
Some of its features include a green design that naturally fits anywhere. It is incredibly easy to set up under a downspout.
It is also linkable and is made with highly resistant material to the mold, mildew, etc.
Finally, it has a screen that keeps out debris and a spigot for your hose.
3 BEST Rain Barrel Accessories
If you want a better Rain Barrel experience then I recommend purchasing one or more of the below accessories!
1. Oatey Mystic Rainwater Collection System
The Oatey Mystic Rainwater Collection System is one example of an accessory that can life easier for you.
The purpose of this accessory is to direct rainwater from downspouts. This will help increase water into your rain barrel and away from your house!
It fits 2′ x 3′ downspouts and can fit a 4-foot hi-flow hose. In addition, this accessory comes in two pieces and is made with UV-resistant plastic.
2. Fiskars Rain Barrel Diverter Pro Kit
The Fiskars Rain Barrel Diverter Pro Kit is another great accessory I would recommend for anyone who has problems with water flowing into the foundation of their house.
It diverts water away from the foundation of the house. It addition, it helps improve the rainwater capture rate.
Best of all is that it comes with a 3-year warranty.
3. Good Ideas Rain Barrel Stand
A Rain Barrel stand is a perfect accessory for your Rain Barrel. Sure, you could build your own, but more times than not it won’t be the right fit.
A good Rain Barrel base will create an offset between the spigot and ground. In addition, it should be incredibly durable. And finally, it will also allow you to more efficiently use your Rain Barrel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
#1. What are the Benefits of Rain Barrels?
The Best Rain Barrels provide the following benefits:
- An abundance of water that can last you all gardening season.
- Adds the critical nutrient, Nitrogen to your plants.
- There are no chemicals, nor added minerals.
- It helps prevents soil erosion.
- It prevents runoff from seeping into your house’s foundation.
- Saves Money
- Helps the environment
#2. What Should I Consider When Buying a Rain Barrel?
While purchasing the Best Rain Barrels may seem like an easy task, I highly recommend considering several factors to ensure you are most satisfied.
- Capacity – Rain Barrels range from small (15 gallons) to extremely large (1,000 gallons). The average gardener should have a 50-gallon rain barrel.
- Lid – This is critical if you want to prevent mosquitos, squirrels, or even children from getting into your barrel. Lids can lock or they can be latched.
- Mesh Screens – If there is no lid then you want a mesh screen. This will keep leaves, insects, and debris from getting into your water.
- Spigot – If you want to hook a hose to your rain barrel then it needs to have a spigot. Most Rain Barrels come with 1 or 2 spigots. Brass is key to prevent cracking!
- Overflow Protection – This is CRITICAL! Most Rain Barrels come with 1 or 2 Overflow protections. This prevents water from running into your foundation
- Design – This can range from useful to decorative, to space-efficient.
- Price – Depending on what you purchase prices can range from $50 – $500. The average 50 gallon Rain Barrel should cost about $80.
#3. What are Rain Barrels Made Of?
Rain Barrels can be made with 4 types of material. They can be made with plastic, stone/ceramic, wood, or metal.
A) Plastic
- Plastic is the most popular option when searching for the Best Rain Barrel. It is lightweight and cost-effective.
- When searching for a Rain Barrel you will want to make sure that the plastic is BPA-free.
B) Stone/Ceramic
- Stone or Ceramic material is the perfect material for small rain barrels. They fit better in small gardens and are very decorative.
- At the same time, they can be quite complex to install. In addition, they will be much more expensive than your Plastic Rain Barrels.
C) Wood
- Wood is the perfect material to complement outdoor colors and design. It gives the perfect farmhouse feel.
- Wood tends to be more expensive than stone/ceramic or plastic. Also, it is more durable than plastic but not as durable as metal or stone/ceramic.
D) Metal
- For the average gardener, you won’t want metal.
- Metal rain barrels typically are permanent.
- They are not very decorative in a residential setting. They are extremely durable but are also the most expensive.
#4. What Size Rain Barrel Do I Need?
The answer will depend on your gardening needs. For just watering your garden then a 40-60 gallons capacity Rain Barrel should be fine.
To have a better understanding of exactly how much rain you should expect in your rain barrel you will want to follow the calculation below:
- For one inch of rainfall over a square foot area, you should expect 1/2 gallon of water.
- Then you want to multiply this number by the number of inches of rain you get for an average month of gardening.
- Finally, you want to multiply the total number by how wide your roof is. This will determine how much rain you should expect in your barrel a month.
Gallons of rain (a month) = rainfall (inches) x .5 (gallons per one inch of rain) x width of roof (in feet)
Example: 2 inches of rain a month x .5 (gallons expected per one inch of rain) x 50 (width of a roof in feet) = 50 gallons a month aka a 50-gallon rain barrel is what you need.
#5. How Do I Use a Rain Barrel?
Below, are several tips on how to most effectively and efficiently use a Rain Barrel.
- Keep the lid tightly sealed and covered. This will reduce mosquitos, condensation, and drownings.
- If your rain barrel has a spigot then make sure to hook up the appropriate garden hose, electric, or manual pump. Pumps are more effective but use more energy.
- Place your rain barrel on flat ground, stable cinderblocks for spigot access, or a rain barrel base.
- Use your stored water within 2 weeks. This will minimize smell and algae.
- For cleaning use 1/8 cup of bleach, 5 gallons of water, 1/4 cup hand soap, and 1/4 cup of vinegar.
- Finally, assembling the downspout or gutter into your rain barrel can be complex. I highly recommend leveraging your manual and the video below.
#6. How Do I Install a Rain Barrel?
While there are many uses of the Rain Barrel it is first important to make sure you install the gutter/downspout into the barrel correctly.
- Identify the gutter downspout to use
- Assemble the Rain Barrel per your instructions
- Prepare the area where you will put your Rain Barrel. Make sure the area where you are placing it is flat and even
- Place your Rain Barrel next to the downspout
- Make the necessary cuts and place the downspout into your rain barrel.
- Level the Rain Barrel
- Direct your overflow away from the foundation
- Watch the below Video!
#7. How do I Care for My Rain Barrel?
Below, are several tips caring for your Rain Barrel:
- Keep the Rain Barrel and gutters clean weekly
- Clean out the Rain Barrel every month
- Protect your house siding with a piece of wood between it and the downspout
- At the end of every season inspect for leaks and move indoors. While you can tip your Rain Barrel on its side, bringing it in a shed, garage, or your house will help prevent it from weathering.
- If you do plan on leaving your rain barrel out all year then prior to the winter empty your rain barrel and clean it with warm water and dish soap.
#8. Should I DIY a Rain Barrel?
I personally would NOT make my own barrel.
- First, it is a complicated process. It literally is not worth your time or money since most rain barrels are reasonably priced.
- In addition, it is hard to find the right supplies. And it is sometimes a struggle to find a big enough container.
- Not only this, but it will be harder to connect supplies like hoses and spigots to DIY rain barrels.
- Also, you have to be extra careful of purchasing supplies that could contain dangerous chemicals.
- Finally, if you do not build it right it could be dangerous and lead to tipping, drownings, or mosquitos carrying deadly diseases.
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