In this article, we spent hours researching and testing various rain barrels to identify the best rain barrels on the market. Our top pick is FCMP Outdoor RC4000 Rain Barrel.
One of the essential components of rainwater harvesting is a rain barrel. A rain barrel is a container that collects and stores rainwater from rooftops, which can be used for watering plants, washing cars, and other non-potable uses.
Rainwater harvesting is a sustainable practice that has been gaining popularity in recent years. When it comes to choosing the best rain barrel, there are several critical factors to consider.
One of the most important is the material of the barrel. Rain barrels can be made from various materials like plastic, wood, and metal. Each material has its pros and cons, and the choice depends on personal preferences and the intended use of the barrel.
Another essential factor to consider is the capacity of the rain barrel. Rain barrels come in different sizes, ranging from 30 gallons to 100 gallons or more. The size of the barrel depends on the size of the roof and the amount of rainfall in the area.
Our goal is to help you make an informed decision when choosing a rain barrel that meets your needs and budget.
Best Rain Barrels
Looking to save money on your water bill and help the environment? A rain barrel is a great solution. Rain barrels collect rainwater from your roof and store it for later use in your garden or lawn.
Not only does this reduce your water usage, but it also helps prevent stormwater runoff. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best rain barrels on Amazon. These rain barrels are durable, easy to install, and come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit your needs.
1. FCMP Outdoor RC4000 Rain Barrel
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable rain barrel, the FCMP Outdoor RC4000 Rain Barrel is a great option.
Pros
- The large opening and flat back design makes installation and placement of the downspout easy.
- The spoke and wheel pattern keeps children and pets safe.
- The aluminum mesh screen keeps out debris, ensuring clear water.
Cons
- The overflow connection at the back of the barrel may cause water to flow towards the foundation if not installed properly.
- The spigots on the side of the barrel may not be strong enough to withstand high water pressure.
- The barrel may be too heavy for some users to move around.
Constructed of recycled, UV-inhibited polyethylene materials, this rain barrel is designed to last for years. The 50-gallon capacity is perfect for small to medium-sized gardens.
The RC4000 also includes spigots on the side of the barrel, allowing you to connect multiple barrels for easy expansion of your rainwater storage capacity.
The FCMP Outdoor RC4000 Rain Barrel is a great investment for those who want to save money on their water bill and reduce their environmental impact. With its modern features and traditional design, this rain barrel is a great addition to any home.
2. Good Ideas 50 Gallon Impressions Riverwalk Rain Barrel
This rain barrel is a great investment for those looking to save water and add an aesthetic touch to their outdoor space.
Pros
- This rain barrel can hold up to 50 gallons of rainwater, which can help you conserve water and take advantage of free water from the sky.
- The unique slate rock texture not only collects rainwater but also boasts an aesthetic look to your outdoor area to attract your guests and visitors and lift up the atmosphere of your home.
- The Good Ideas 50 Gallon Impressions Riverwalk Rain Barrel features dual spigot locations that offer flexibility in how you use your collected rainwater.
Cons
- Assembly is required for this rain barrel.
- The brass spigots need to be perfectly aligned and guided as they want to angle in, and they may leak even with the plumbers tape provided.
- No diverter is included with the rain barrel and the company does not make/sell diverters.
This rain barrel is a great investment for those looking to save water and add an aesthetic touch to their outdoor space. With its deep welled top, you can plant an array of floral arrangements or even a small herb or vegetable garden.
The top also includes the Good Ideas, original, integrated overflow channel, which automatically diverts all overflow water to the front of the barrel and keeps your foundation from flooding.
The large opening which can be used for 2×3 or 3×4 downspouts is covered with a soft, fine mesh, plastic screen to keep out heavy debris and insects.
The Good Ideas 50 Gallon Impressions Riverwalk Rain Barrel features robust brass spigots that are rust-proof and breakage-proof for long-term reliability. The dual spigot locations offer flexibility in how you use your collected rainwater.
You can use a five-gallon bucket or hose simultaneously without issue, or use the second spigot as an overflow into a second barrel.
Overall, this rain barrel is a great investment for those looking to save water and add an aesthetic touch to their outdoor space. It is a substantial rain barrel thoughtfully designed with an integrated planter top to collect rainwater for your sustainable watering needs efficiently.
3. FCMP Outdoor Catalina 45 Gallon Rain Water Barrel Catcher System
If you are looking for a large rain barrel with a shut-off thumb valve, the FCMP Outdoor Catalina 45-gallon Rain Water Barrel Catcher System is a great choice.
Pros
- The large 45-gallon container capacity makes this barrel great for gardens that need large water storage containers.
- The shut-off thumb valve allows you to conveniently start and stop the flow of water from your rain barrel with a simple push of the thumb using the attached thumb valve.
- The garden hose lets you easily fill up a watering can or nearby smaller rainwater barrel, and you can also attach a longer hose to extend the reach to areas of your backyard.
Cons
- The bottom drain doesn’t work very well.
- The top holder for the hose comes completely off instead of just the hose itself.
- The barrel is not suitable for freezing temperatures.
This eco rain barrel is produced with sustainability in mind, helping your entire garden to be more eco-friendly and natural. The product dimension measures 22.48 inches long, 20.47 inches wide, and 29.76 inches tall.
The FCMP Outdoor Catalina 45 Gallon Rain Water Barrel Catcher System is a great choice for those who need a large container for their garden. The shut-off thumb valve is a convenient feature that makes it easy to control the flow of water from the barrel.
The garden hose is also a great feature that allows you to easily fill up a watering can or a nearby smaller rainwater barrel. However, the bottom drain doesn’t work very well and the top holder for the hose comes completely off instead of just the hose itself.
Overall, this is a great product for those who need a large rain barrel.
4. Rain Wizard Urn 50 Gallon Rain Barrel – Light Granite
The Rain Wizard Urn by GOOD IDEAS is a stylish and functional rain barrel that holds up to 50 gallons of water. It is a great way to conserve water and give your garden the best water it can get, devoid of harsh chemicals and rich in nutrients.
The flat back design optimizes the space used and allows you to position the barrel close to walls or flat areas. The top is the only of its kind that acts as a planter space and also self-drains when excess water is present (also find out how to soak up excess water in the yard).
Pros
- The urn shape adds class and style to your rain harvesting.
- The self-draining planter top is a unique feature that allows for additional functionality.
- The meshed screen blocks debris from entering your water supply, ensuring clean water for your garden.
Cons
- The barrel is made of plastic, which may not be as durable as other materials.
- Some customers reported that the barrel developed holes after a few years of use.
- The product may be more expensive compared to other rain barrels in the market.
The Rain Wizard Urn is a great option for those looking for a stylish and functional rain barrel. Its unique design allows it to blend in with your home’s exterior while providing additional functionality as a planter space.
However, customers should be aware of the potential durability issues that may arise with prolonged use.
5. HSDATKOR Rain Barrel
If you’re looking for a rain barrel that is easy to use and maintain, then the HSDATKOR Rain Barrel is a great choice.
Pros
- The light-colored design makes it easy to maintain cleanliness without frequent brushing
- The circular bottom structure and reasonable size ratio make it more stable and less likely to topple over
- Made from 1000D waterproof material with a tighter fiber texture in the middle, it can effectively prevent small animals from scratching
Cons
- Without a frame on the top, it won’t stand up like it showed on the website and it won’t be able to collect rainwater very well
- Assembly is easy, but it took some time to figure out how to connect the hose
- The product photos are a little misleading
The HSDATKOR Rain Barrel is a great option for anyone looking for a rain barrel that is easy to use and maintain.
Its light-colored design makes it easy to keep clean without frequent brushing, and the circular bottom structure and reasonable size ratio make it more stable and less likely to topple over.
Additionally, it is made from 1000D waterproof material with a tighter fiber texture in the middle, which can effectively prevent small animals from scratching.
Assembly is easy, but it took some time to figure out how to connect the hose. The product photos are also a little misleading, as the rain barrel won’t stand up as it showed on the website without a frame on the top, and it won’t be able to collect rainwater very well.
However, overall, the HSDATKOR Rain Barrel is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use rain barrel.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best rain barrel, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to keep in mind:
Capacity
The capacity of the rain barrel is an important factor to consider. The size of the barrel should be proportional to the amount of rainfall in your area.
A larger barrel may be necessary if you live in an area with heavy rainfall, while a smaller barrel may suffice in areas with lighter rainfall.
Material
Rain barrels can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and wood. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Plastic barrels are lightweight and easy to move, while metal barrels are more durable and resistant to UV rays. Wood barrels are aesthetically pleasing but require more maintenance.
Design
The design of the rain barrel is also an important consideration. Look for a barrel with a secure lid to prevent debris and animals from getting inside. Some barrels also come with a spigot for easy access to the collected water.
Accessories
Many rain barrels come with accessories such as a diverter kit, which allows you to divert water from your downspout directly into the barrel. Other accessories may include a hose, overflow valve, or filter.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best rain barrel for your needs and help conserve water while also reducing your water bill.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated rain barrels according to consumer reports?
Consumer reports have listed the following rain barrels as top-rated: Good Ideas RW50-OAK Wizard, Algreen Products Cascata Rain Barrel, and RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Water Collection Barrel.
These barrels have been rated high for their durability, ease of use, and effectiveness in collecting and storing rainwater.
Which materials are considered the best for durability and safety in rain barrels?
Rain barrels made of materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), food-grade plastic, and UV-resistant resin are considered the best for durability and safety. These materials are resistant to cracking, fading, and other weather-related damage.
How do modern rain barrel designs compare to traditional ones?
Modern rain barrel designs are more efficient and user-friendly compared to traditional ones. They come with features such as spigots, overflow valves, and childproof lids, which make them easier to use and safer.
Additionally, modern designs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors to match any landscape.
What should be considered when using a rain barrel for collecting drinking water?
Rainwater collected in a rain barrel is generally safe for non-potable uses such as watering plants and washing cars. However, if you plan to use the water for drinking, it is recommended to install a filtration system to remove any contaminants.
Additionally, it is important to regularly clean the barrel and replace the water to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Can you recommend some DIY strategies for setting up an effective rain barrel system?
DIY strategies for setting up an effective rain barrel system include using a downspout diverter, connecting multiple barrels in series, and using a pump to distribute the water. Additionally, it is important to elevate the barrel and use a sturdy stand to prevent tipping.
What are the best practices for positioning rain barrels in relation to sun exposure and gutters?
Rain barrels should be positioned in a shaded area to prevent the growth of algae and bacteria. Additionally, they should be placed near a downspout to collect the maximum amount of rainwater.
It is also important to ensure that the gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to prevent clogging.