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10 Best Rain Barrels 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Stand and Link Kit Included, Black (2 Pack)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,217
Capacity
Material
Overflow Protection

Most important from
3945 reviews

Capacity
The barrels fill quickly after moderate rain, making water collection efficient and reliable.
Material
Replacing the included plastic spigot with a brass one can improve durability and flow control.
Overflow Protection
Connecting two or more barrels per downspout is essential to handle heavy rain without overflow issues.
Mosquito Prevention
The built-in stand is convenient but can trap water, requiring occasional draining to prevent mosquito breeding.
Ease of Installation
Installing the barrels on a level cement pad helps maintain stability on uneven ground.
Aesthetic
The flat back design offers stability and a neat fit against walls, enhancing both aesthetics and space-saving.

The RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel set is a solid choice for anyone looking to collect and store rainwater efficiently, especially if you want to capture more water by linking two barrels together. Each barrel holds a good amount of water (50 gallons), which is great for watering gardens or lawns without relying on tap water. Made from 100% recycled plastic, these barrels are durable and eco-friendly, plus the UV-resistant material helps them last outside without cracking or fading. The flat back design is smart because it lets you tuck the barrels neatly against walls or fences, saving space.

Overflow protection is well-handled with a built-in overflow valve that helps prevent water from spilling uncontrollably during heavy rain, reducing the risk of flooding near your foundation. For mosquito prevention, the set includes plastic screens that cover the openings, helping keep bugs out while still allowing water in. Installation is fairly straightforward with the included stand, spigots, and a linking kit, making it easier to set up and connect multiple barrels if needed. The included instructions and all necessary parts simplify the process, though some basic assembly is required.

In terms of looks, the black color is neutral and unobtrusive, fitting well into most outdoor spaces. However, the cylindrical shape and size mean the barrels are quite noticeable, which might not suit everyone's aesthetic preferences. Also, while the barrels are robust, the product does require winterizing to avoid damage in cold weather, which adds a bit of maintenance. This rain barrel set is especially suitable for gardeners or homeowners with moderate to large outdoor spaces who want a reliable, eco-conscious way to collect rainwater. It balances practical features like capacity and overflow control with ease of use and thoughtful design, though those seeking a more decorative option might look elsewhere.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,217
Capacity
Material
Overflow Protection

Most important from
3945 reviews

Capacity
The barrels fill quickly after moderate rain, making water collection efficient and reliable.
Material
Replacing the included plastic spigot with a brass one can improve durability and flow control.
Overflow Protection
Connecting two or more barrels per downspout is essential to handle heavy rain without overflow issues.
Mosquito Prevention
The built-in stand is convenient but can trap water, requiring occasional draining to prevent mosquito breeding.
Ease of Installation
Installing the barrels on a level cement pad helps maintain stability on uneven ground.
Aesthetic
The flat back design offers stability and a neat fit against walls, enhancing both aesthetics and space-saving.
#2

RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Stand and Link Kit Included, Walnut Color (2 Pack)

Rating
7.9
Capacity
Material
Overflow Protection

Most important from
2134 reviews

Capacity
The barrels have a good capacity, ideal for substantial rainwater storage or linking multiple units.
Material
UV-resistant material ensures the barrels withstand outdoor conditions without cracking or fading.
Overflow Protection
Built-in overflow valves effectively manage excess water, preventing backyard flooding.
Mosquito Prevention
Aluminum screens keep mosquitoes out, helping maintain cleaner water.
Ease of Installation
Installation is straightforward, making it easy to set up even for beginners.
Aesthetic
The design not only saves space but also blends naturally with outdoor surroundings.

The RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel set includes two barrels, each with a good-sized 50-gallon capacity, which is great if you want to collect a substantial amount of rainwater or link multiple barrels for even more storage. Made from UV-resistant polyethylene, these barrels are designed to last outdoors without cracking or fading, which is important for long-term use. The flat-back design makes them easy to place against walls or fences, saving space in your yard. Each barrel has a built-in overflow valve to manage excess water and help prevent backyard flooding during heavy rains. Mosquito prevention is addressed through aluminum screens that keep bugs out of the stored water, which is a helpful feature for maintaining cleaner water and avoiding insect issues.

For ease of use, the set includes a sturdy stand to raise the barrels, making it simpler to access the premium brass spigots for water retrieval. The package also comes with a link kit to connect barrels and assembly instructions, supporting straightforward installation even for beginners. Aesthetically, the walnut color offers a natural and unobtrusive look that blends well with outdoor spaces. On the downside, while the barrels are durable, the plastic spigots included in the kit (besides the brass spigots) may not be as long-lasting, so occasional maintenance might be needed. Also, the barrels weigh 24 pounds each when empty, so moving them before installation may require some effort.

Taking these points into account, this rain barrel set is suited for homeowners who want an easy-to-install, space-saving water collection system with good capacity and features to keep water clean and manageable.

Rating
7.9
Capacity
Material
Overflow Protection

Most important from
2134 reviews

Capacity
The barrels have a good capacity, ideal for substantial rainwater storage or linking multiple units.
Material
UV-resistant material ensures the barrels withstand outdoor conditions without cracking or fading.
Overflow Protection
Built-in overflow valves effectively manage excess water, preventing backyard flooding.
Mosquito Prevention
Aluminum screens keep mosquitoes out, helping maintain cleaner water.
Ease of Installation
Installation is straightforward, making it easy to set up even for beginners.
Aesthetic
The design not only saves space but also blends naturally with outdoor surroundings.
#3

Step2 Lakewood Rain Barrel with Stand, Outdoor Water Conservation Container, Holds 60 Gallons, Brown

Rating
7.6
Capacity
Material
Overflow Protection

Most important from
61 reviews

Capacity
A spacious 60-gallon capacity meets most garden watering needs comfortably.
Material
The rain barrel impresses with its sturdy build and sleek design, offering excellent value for the price.
Overflow Protection
The product lacks a pre-installed overflow plug, which would facilitate linking multiple barrels or connecting to a downspout diverter.
Mosquito Prevention
The securely attached mesh screen effectively keeps out debris, maintaining clean water collection.
Ease of Installation
Assembly is straightforward and requires minimal tools, with clear instructions and helpful extras like Teflon tape included.
Aesthetic
The barrel’s color and shape blend naturally into outdoor settings, enhancing curb appeal.

The Step2 Lakewood Rain Barrel is a solid choice for anyone looking to collect and conserve rainwater with its 60-gallon capacity, which is ample for most home garden needs. Made of durable double-walled plastic, it promises long-lasting use without fading or cracking. Its brown color and classic rectangular shape offer a neat, natural look that can blend well in most outdoor spaces. One notable feature is the elevated design with a sturdy included brass spigot, which improves water pressure, making it easier to fill watering cans.

The stainless steel mesh screen helps keep debris out and supports overflow management when multiple barrels are linked. Installation appears straightforward with minimal assembly needed, and cleaning is easy with a wipe-down surface. At 34 pounds, it is manageable to set up but might require two people when filled.

This rain barrel does a good job filtering particulates and provides reliable, attractive water collection with enough capacity and simple overflow handling. It is well-suited for gardeners focused on sustainability and conserving water.

Rating
7.6
Capacity
Material
Overflow Protection

Most important from
61 reviews

Capacity
A spacious 60-gallon capacity meets most garden watering needs comfortably.
Material
The rain barrel impresses with its sturdy build and sleek design, offering excellent value for the price.
Overflow Protection
The product lacks a pre-installed overflow plug, which would facilitate linking multiple barrels or connecting to a downspout diverter.
Mosquito Prevention
The securely attached mesh screen effectively keeps out debris, maintaining clean water collection.
Ease of Installation
Assembly is straightforward and requires minimal tools, with clear instructions and helpful extras like Teflon tape included.
Aesthetic
The barrel’s color and shape blend naturally into outdoor settings, enhancing curb appeal.

Buying Guide for the Best Rain Barrels

Choosing the right rain barrel can be a great way to conserve water and reduce your water bill. Rain barrels collect and store rainwater from your roof that you can use for watering your garden, washing your car, or other outdoor uses. When selecting a rain barrel, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of water the rain barrel can hold, usually measured in gallons. This is important because it determines how much rainwater you can store. Smaller barrels (20-40 gallons) are suitable for small gardens or limited space, medium barrels (50-80 gallons) are good for average-sized gardens, and large barrels (100+ gallons) are ideal for extensive gardens or high water usage. Consider your garden size and water needs to choose the right capacity.
MaterialRain barrels are typically made from plastic, wood, or metal. Plastic barrels are lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust and rot, making them a popular choice. Wooden barrels have a natural aesthetic but require more maintenance to prevent rot. Metal barrels are sturdy and long-lasting but can be prone to rust. Choose a material based on your preference for durability, maintenance, and appearance.
Overflow ProtectionOverflow protection is a feature that prevents the barrel from spilling over when it reaches full capacity. This is important to avoid water damage to your property. Look for barrels with an overflow spout or a diverter system that redirects excess water away from the foundation of your home. If you live in an area with heavy rainfall, this feature is particularly crucial.
Mosquito PreventionMosquito prevention features help keep mosquitoes from breeding in the stored water. This is important for health and comfort, as standing water can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Look for barrels with tightly fitting lids, fine mesh screens, or built-in mosquito-proofing to ensure that insects cannot access the water.
Ease of InstallationEase of installation refers to how simple it is to set up the rain barrel. This is important because a complicated installation process can be frustrating and time-consuming. Some barrels come with all necessary fittings and clear instructions, making them easier to install. Consider your DIY skills and look for a barrel that matches your comfort level with installation.
AestheticThe aesthetic of the rain barrel refers to its appearance and how well it blends with your outdoor space. This is important if you want the barrel to complement your garden or home exterior. Rain barrels come in various designs, colors, and finishes. Choose one that matches your style and enhances the look of your outdoor area.

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