Best Rain Barrels Reviewed: Top Picks for Water Conservation in 2026
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Last updated: January 17, 2026
Rainwater harvesting is an eco-friendly and cost-effective way of conserving water. One of the essential components of rainwater harvesting is a rain barrel. A rain barrel is a container that collects and stores rainwater that can be used for various purposes like watering plants, washing cars, and even flushing toilets.
When it comes to purchasing a rain barrel, there are several factors to consider. The first thing to consider is the size of the barrel. The size of the rain barrel depends on the amount of rainfall in your area and the size of your roof. The material of the barrel is another crucial factor to consider. Rain barrels are made of different materials like plastic, wood, and metal, and each material has its advantages and disadvantages.
The design of the rain barrel is also essential. Some rain barrels come with a spigot at the bottom that allows you to attach a hose for easy watering, while others have a diverter system that connects to your downspout. The price of the rain barrel is also a factor to consider. Some rain barrels are more expensive than others, but they may come with additional features like a filter system or an overflow valve.
We spent hours researching and testing different rain barrels to identify the best ones on the market. In our review, we considered factors like size, material, design, and price. Our goal was to find rain barrels that are durable, easy to use, and provide the best value for your money.
Best Rain Barrels
We understand the importance of conserving water and reducing our environmental impact. One of the easiest ways to do this is by collecting rainwater and using it to water your plants and garden. Rain barrels are a great way to do this, and they come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit your needs. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best rain barrels on the market based on their capacity, durability, and overall value. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, we’ve got you covered with our top picks.
Our top pick
- The wood grain design of the barrel blends in well with outdoor surroundings.
- The shallow depth and flat back make installation and placement under the downspout easy.
- The corrosion-resistant screen and safety rib on the top of the barrel keep the water clean and safe for pets and children.
Cons
- The plastic material may not be as durable as other materials.
- Some customers have reported leaks in the barrel.
- The linking kit included may not be sufficient for larger-scale rainwater storage.
We recently had the opportunity to use the FCMP Outdoor Wood Grain Rain Barrel, and we found it to be a great addition to our backyard. The wood grain design of the barrel blends in well with the outdoor surroundings, making it a visually appealing addition to our yard.
The shallow depth and flat back of the barrel made it easy to install and place under the downspout. We were able to connect multiple rain barrels in-series using the spigots on the side of the barrel, allowing us to expand our rainwater storage capacity with ease.
The corrosion-resistant screen and safety rib on the top of the barrel kept the water clean and safe for our pets and children. We appreciated the inclusion of the debris screen, garden hose, shut-off thumb valve, hanging hose clip, and linking kit, which made installation and use of the barrel a breeze.
While we found the plastic material to be lightweight and easy to handle, we did have some concerns about its durability in the long run. Additionally, some customers have reported leaks in the barrel, which is something to keep in mind. The linking kit included may not be sufficient for larger-scale rainwater storage, so it may be necessary to purchase additional components.
Overall, we would recommend the FCMP Outdoor Wood Grain Rain Barrel to anyone looking for an easy-to-install, visually appealing rain barrel that is safe for pets and children.
Best runner-up
- The whiskey barrel design adds a rustic charm to your garden.
- The integrated planter allows you to grow plants using the collected rainwater.
- The flat back design allows you to place it closer to your house or outdoor building.
Cons
- Some users reported that the product did not come with all the parts advertised.
- A few users complained about the low water pressure.
- The product is slightly expensive compared to other rain barrels in the market.
EMSCO Group Rescue 50 Gallon Whiskey Rain Barrel – Brown is an ideal choice for those who want to save resources and reduce their water bills while helping the environment. The product comes with a rainwater diverter that allows you to discretely divert rainwater directly from your downspout to your rain barrel. The diverter installation guide makes it easy to set up the product hassle-free.
The extra-large planter on the top of the rain barrel has built-in weep holes that prevent plant roots from being overwatered and acts as a functional piece of lawn decor. The rain barrel can be connected to a soaker hose for convenient automatic watering of nearby plants. When the rain barrel is full, the diverter sends excess water through your downspout to automatically prevent any rain barrel overflow or standing water.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a rain barrel that not only serves its purpose but also adds to the aesthetic appeal of your garden, EMSCO Group Rescue 50 Gallon Whiskey Rain Barrel – Brown is the perfect solution for you.
Best budget option
- The 50-gallon capacity is perfect for most households.
- The two brass spigots make it easy to connect standard hoses or buckets.
- The wood grain texture and darkened ribs give it an authentic whiskey barrel look.
Cons
- The base can be difficult to remove from the barrel.
- The mesh screen may become clogged with debris over time.
- The price is slightly higher than some other rain barrels on the market.
We’ve been using the Good Ideas RW-2SD050-OAK Wizard American Oak with Darkened Ribs and Stand Rain Barrel Rain Barrel with Stand for several months now, and we’re very happy with our purchase. The 50-gallon capacity is perfect for our household, and we love the fact that it has two brass spigots – one at the bottom for maximum flow and one on the side for buckets and linking.
The wood grain texture and darkened ribs give it an authentic whiskey barrel look that we find very attractive. The mesh screen on the top of the barrel is also a nice touch, as it keeps out debris and allows us to connect all standard downspouts. We’ve noticed that the tapered nature of the lid minimizes splashing and funnels all the water towards the screen, which is a nice feature.
While we love our Good Ideas rain barrel, there are a few cons to consider. The base can be difficult to remove from the barrel, which can make it challenging to clean. We’ve also noticed that the mesh screen can become clogged with debris over time, which requires regular cleaning.
Overall, we highly recommend the Good Ideas RW-2SD050-OAK Wizard American Oak with Darkened Ribs and Stand Rain Barrel Rain Barrel with Stand to anyone looking for a high-quality rain barrel that is both functional and attractive.
Best premium choice
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Rainwater Recycling: Save money on your water bill by collecting rainwater from your gutters. The VEVOR rain barrel is a sustainable solution that allows you to use rainwater for multiple needs.
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A Breeze to Use: The rain barrel is available in 53 and 100 gallons. Place the water tank under a downspout and let the water run through the top mesh. You can use a bucket or water pipe to irrigate or clean your garden, lawn, car, or farm.
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1000D PVC Barrel: The rainwater collection barrel is constructed from a PVC frame and fabric that is corrosion-resistant, sun-proof, and crack-proof to facilitate long-term use even in the cold winter.
Cons
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No Wheels: The rain barrel doesn’t have wheels, which can make it difficult to move when full.
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Not for Large Gardens: The 53-gallon capacity may not be sufficient for larger gardens or farms.
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Assembly Required: Although assembly is easy, it still requires some effort to set up.
No Wheels: The rain barrel doesn’t have wheels, which can make it difficult to move when full.
Not for Large Gardens: The 53-gallon capacity may not be sufficient for larger gardens or farms.
Assembly Required: Although assembly is easy, it still requires some effort to set up.
Overall, the VEVOR 53 Gallon Collapsible Rain Barrel is a great investment for those who want to save money and water. The rain barrel is easy to use, durable, and perfect for small to medium-sized gardens.
Also great
- The light color of the rain barrel helps to maintain cleanliness for a longer time than dark colored ones.
- The circular bottom structure and reasonable size ratio make the rain barrel stand more stable in your courtyard.
- The 1000D waterproof material with tighter fiber texture in the middle can effectively prevent small animals from scratching.
Cons
- Assembling the rain barrel can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re doing it alone.
- The rain barrel doesn’t come with a frame on the top, which can make it difficult to collect rainwater effectively.
- The product may not be suitable for those who need a large capacity rain barrel.
We love that the rain barrel is made from sturdy and durable materials, and the light color helps to keep it clean. The circular bottom structure and reasonable size ratio make it easy to set up and use. We also appreciate that the manufacturer offers a 20-year history of selling rain barrels and accepts unconditional returns and exchanges.
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable rain barrel that can stand up to the elements, the Rain Barrel Made from 1000D Waterproof Material is a great choice. However, if you need a larger capacity rain barrel or prefer a product that is easier to assemble, this may not be the best option for you.
When it comes to choosing the best rain barrel for your needs, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Rain barrels are typically made from plastic, wood, or metal. Plastic barrels are lightweight and affordable, but they may not be as durable as other materials. Wood barrels are attractive and can blend in with outdoor decor, but they may require more maintenance. Metal barrels are sturdy and long-lasting, but they can be heavy and expensive.
Rain barrels come in a range of sizes, from 30 gallons to 100 gallons or more. The right size for you will depend on your water needs and the amount of rainfall in your area. Consider how much water you’ll need for your garden or lawn, and choose a barrel that can hold enough water to meet those needs.
Rain barrels come in a variety of designs, from basic and functional to decorative and stylish. Some barrels have built-in spigots or overflow valves, while others may require additional accessories to connect to your downspout or garden hose. Look for a design that is easy to use and fits your aesthetic preferences.
Some rain barrels come with additional features, such as filters to remove debris and contaminants from the water, or pumps to help distribute water more efficiently. Consider whether these features are important to you and whether they are worth the additional cost.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best rain barrel for your needs and enjoy the benefits of collecting and using rainwater in your garden or lawn.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best rain barrel for your needs, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Material
Rain barrels are typically made from plastic, wood, or metal. Plastic barrels are lightweight and affordable, but they may not be as durable as other materials. Wood barrels are attractive and can blend in with outdoor decor, but they may require more maintenance. Metal barrels are sturdy and long-lasting, but they can be heavy and expensive.
Capacity
Rain barrels come in a range of sizes, from 30 gallons to 100 gallons or more. The right size for you will depend on your water needs and the amount of rainfall in your area. Consider how much water you’ll need for your garden or lawn, and choose a barrel that can hold enough water to meet those needs.
Design
Rain barrels come in a variety of designs, from basic and functional to decorative and stylish. Some barrels have built-in spigots or overflow valves, while others may require additional accessories to connect to your downspout or garden hose. Look for a design that is easy to use and fits your aesthetic preferences.
Additional Features
Some rain barrels come with additional features, such as filters to remove debris and contaminants from the water, or pumps to help distribute water more efficiently. Consider whether these features are important to you and whether they are worth the additional cost.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best rain barrel for your needs and enjoy the benefits of collecting and using rainwater in your garden or lawn.
