Harvesting rainwater helps conserve clean water and reduce outdoor irrigation costs. This guide highlights five large-capacity rain barrels that maximize storage, durability, and ease of use. Each product below includes a quick overview, key features, and practical considerations to help you pick the right model for your outdoor space.
| Product | Capacity | Material | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTS Home Accents ECO 50-Gallon | 50 gallons | 100% recycled plastic | Flat back design, overflow valve |
| Step2 Lakewood 60-Gallon | 60 gallons | Plastic | Includes stand |
| RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon with Brass Spigot | 50 gallons | UV-resistant polyethylene | Brass spigot, flat back |
| 100 Gallon Rain Barrel Water Tank (Collapsible) | 100 gallons | PVC (thick, UV-resistant) | Stable with reinforced frame |
| RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO with Stand | 50 gallons | 100% recycled plastic | Stand included, overflow valve |
RTS Home Accents ECO 50-Gallon Rain Barrel
The RTS Home Accents ECO 50-Gallon Rain Barrel is crafted from 100% recycled plastic and features a flat back design to fit snugly against walls. Its UV-resistant polyethylene provides durability against sun and weather, while the built-in overflow valve helps manage excess water. This model supports connecting multiple barrels for expanded storage, making it suitable for mid-size gardens or lawn irrigation projects.
Key considerations
Pros: Recycled material, sturdy construction, space-saving flat back design. Cons: Limited color options may affect aesthetics in some setups.
Step2 Lakewood Rain Barrel With Stand
The Step2 Lakewood Rain Barrel combines a practical 60-gallon capacity with a stable stand, elevating the barrel for easier drainage and connection to downspouts. While designed primarily for outdoor use, the stand adds convenience for maintenance and placement in yard corners or along pathways. Its brown finish blends well with natural landscapes and decking materials.
Key considerations
Pros: Higher capacity, included stand, easy access to spigot. Cons: Balance and stability depend on base surface; ensure level ground during setup.
RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon With Brass Spigot
This RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon model includes a brass spigot for durable, corrosion-resistant water dispensing. The flat back design helps maximize wall-adjacent space, and the barrel is built from UV-resistant polyethylene to endure outdoor conditions. Like other RTS ECO barrels, it supports linking multiple barrels to increase total storage capacity.
Key considerations
Pros: Long-lasting spigot hardware, space-efficient, easy expansion. Cons: 50 gallons may be limiting for larger irrigation needs without linking additional barrels.
100 Gallon Rain Barrel Water Tank (Collapsible)
This 100-gallon rain barrel provides a large storage capacity with a collapsible design for easy storage when not in use. The internal frame supports the barrel under heavy water pressure, helping maintain full capacity. A reinforced hose-support system and upgraded connectors keep top and bottom rings aligned, reducing tipping risk and improving long-term durability. Included repair patch adds resilience against leaks.
Key considerations
Pros: Large capacity, reinforced stability, repair patch for longevity. Cons: Collapsible design may require careful setup when filling and moving.
RTS Home Accents ECO 50-Gallon With Stand
This 50-gallon RTS ECO barrel includes a stand for elevated drainage and easier connection to hoses or downspouts. The 100% recycled plastic construction provides durable outdoors performance, while the overflow valve helps manage excess rainfall. The flat back design remains a space-efficient option for fence lines and house walls, with potential for linking extra barrels to expand capacity.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
Capacity and use case: For small to medium gardens, 50–60 gallon barrels often suffice, while larger yards benefit from 100-gallon models or multi-barrel setups. Consider how many outlets or spigots you need and whether you’ll connect multiple barrels for expanded storage.
Material and durability: Look for UV-resistant polyethylene or PVC to withstand sun exposure and temperature swings. Recycled plastics offer eco-friendly benefits, but ensure the design includes features like reinforced seams and sturdy bases.
Design and placement: Flat back designs save space against walls or fences. Elevating barrels with stands improves drainage and accessibility but requires stable, level ground. Consider a downhill slope from the barrel to the garden for optimal flow.
Overflow and connection options: Overflow valves prevent backups during heavy rainfall. The ability to connect multiple barrels is valuable for scaling storage without purchasing new systems. Check hose connectors, spigot materials (brass is durable), and compatibility with standard hoses.
Installation and maintenance: Easy setup with clear instructions, included hardware, and repair patches can extend life. Inspect seals and fittings regularly for leaks, especially at joints and spigots.
Maintenance considerations: Keep leaf debris out of intake areas. Consider add-ons like leaf guards, downspout diverters, and basic filtration if your rainwater is used for irrigation or non-potable tasks.
Cost vs. value: Higher capacity and robust features justify the investment if you irrigate large spaces or rely heavily on rainwater. For occasional use, smaller barrels with expansion options may be more cost-effective.