We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Diy Rain Barrels 2026 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Stand Included, Walnut Color

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,438
Capacity
Material
Design

Most important from
174 reviews

Capacity
Great price for the amount of water they hold and they look really good.
Material
Lightweight yet sturdy, it really does look like a barrel.
Design
The flat back design allows it to snug up close to the house, making it very space-efficient.
Installation and Placement
Installation was a breeze with the addition of the downspout diverter spout.
Additional Features
Securing the top screen debris traps is necessary in heavy rains to avoid losing them.

The RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel offers a substantial capacity suitable for watering gardens, lawns, and plants, making it a practical choice for rainwater harvesting. Constructed from UV-resistant polyethylene, it promises durability against outdoor elements, which is essential for long-term use. The built-in overflow valve is a thoughtful feature that helps manage excess water and allows for connecting multiple barrels if more storage is needed.

The premium brass spigot ensures easy and leak-free water retrieval, which adds to the convenience of using the barrel. Its inclusion of a sturdy stand elevates the barrel, making it easier to access the spigot and improving the efficiency of water collection. The sleek, textured design with a flat back is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, allowing the barrel to fit snugly against walls or fences, making it ideal for tight spaces.

Being made in the USA might appeal to those who prefer domestically-produced items. However, the barrel's weight of 23 pounds might require a bit of effort during installation and placement. In summary, this rain barrel is well-designed to meet the needs of users looking for a durable, efficient, and attractive solution for rainwater collection.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,438
Capacity
Material
Design

Most important from
174 reviews

Capacity
Great price for the amount of water they hold and they look really good.
Material
Lightweight yet sturdy, it really does look like a barrel.
Design
The flat back design allows it to snug up close to the house, making it very space-efficient.
Installation and Placement
Installation was a breeze with the addition of the downspout diverter spout.
Additional Features
Securing the top screen debris traps is necessary in heavy rains to avoid losing them.
#2

RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel with Brass Spigot, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Walnut Color

Rating
8.8
Capacity
Material
Design

Most important from
1907 reviews

Capacity
One rain can fill the barrel quickly, making it very effective for garden watering during rainy seasons.
Material
The barrels require a solid support to stay stable when full due to their weight, but they do not leak and are easy to assemble.
Design
The barrel’s appearance is visually appealing, especially the dark brown finish, which blends well with outdoor spaces.
Installation and Placement
A diverter for the downspout is essential to control water flow on and off the barrel effectively.
Additional Features
The spigot provides a slow but steady and usable flow of water, ideal for gentle watering needs.

The RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel is a solid choice for homeowners wanting to collect and reuse rainwater for gardening or lawn care. Its 50-gallon capacity offers a good amount of storage without being too bulky, fitting well in most yards. The barrel is made from UV-resistant polyethylene, which means it should hold up well outdoors against sun damage and weather. Its flat back design is practical for tight spaces, allowing the barrel to sit flush against walls or fences.

Installation is straightforward since it comes fully assembled and includes a premium brass spigot that makes it easy to access water without leaks. The built-in overflow valve helps manage excess water, and you can connect multiple barrels if you need more storage. The textured walnut finish looks nice and blends with outdoor decor, making it more visually appealing than plain plastic barrels. However, the barrel weighs 18 pounds empty, which is manageable but something to consider if you plan to move it often. Also, the barrel stand is sold separately, so you might need to invest a bit more for optimal placement and stability.

The product includes a 1-year warranty, which is decent but not very long. Customer ratings are generally positive, reflecting satisfaction with its durability and ease of use. If you want a reliable, attractive, and easy-to-install rain barrel for everyday garden watering, this model is a great option.

Rating
8.8
Capacity
Material
Design

Most important from
1907 reviews

Capacity
One rain can fill the barrel quickly, making it very effective for garden watering during rainy seasons.
Material
The barrels require a solid support to stay stable when full due to their weight, but they do not leak and are easy to assemble.
Design
The barrel’s appearance is visually appealing, especially the dark brown finish, which blends well with outdoor spaces.
Installation and Placement
A diverter for the downspout is essential to control water flow on and off the barrel effectively.
Additional Features
The spigot provides a slow but steady and usable flow of water, ideal for gentle watering needs.
#3

FCMP Outdoor Raincatcher 4000 Rain Barrel, Flat-Back Rainwater Catcher with Spigots, 50 Gallon, Grey - Portable Water Storage Container Tank for Home, Garden, and Backyard

Rating
8.2
Capacity
Material
Design

Most important from
3051 reviews

Capacity
The barrel’s size and weight make it manageable to install alone or with some help, and the wide opening simplifies cleaning and maintenance.
Material
The barrel is made of good hard plastic that feels durable and should last a long time outdoors.
Design
Setup is very easy with just a few parts to attach, and the flat back design allows the barrel to sit flush against a wall for a neat and space-saving installation.
Installation and Placement
The barrel’s size and weight make it manageable to install alone or with some help, and the wide opening simplifies cleaning and maintenance.
Additional Features
The included overflow hose attaches simply with zip ties, though a longer hose might be preferred for some setups.

The FCMP Outdoor Raincatcher 4000 is a 50-gallon rain barrel designed for gardeners and homeowners looking to collect and reuse rainwater efficiently. Its capacity is a solid middle ground—large enough to store a good amount of water without being too bulky or difficult to handle. The gray polyethylene material is durable, UV-resistant, and BPA-free, so it can stand up to outdoor weather for years without degrading or leaching harmful chemicals.

One thoughtful design feature is the flat back, which allows the barrel to sit flush against your house for a neat setup and easy connection to your downspout. The wide opening on top makes installing and cleaning the barrel simple, which is a plus for beginners. It also includes mesh screens that help keep debris and insects out. Another handy aspect is the expandable system: side spigots make it easy to link multiple barrels together if you want to increase your water storage capacity in the future. This is convenient for gardeners who may want to grow over time without replacing their initial setup.

Installation is straightforward, and the barrel’s size and weight (about 25 pounds empty) make it manageable to install solo or with some help. The 50-gallon size may not be sufficient if you have a very large garden or want to store water for extended dry periods. This rain barrel offers a durable, well-designed, and expandable option that fits well for most home gardening needs and those new to rainwater collection. Its sturdy construction and smart design features make it a practical choice for conserving water and supporting eco-friendly gardening, though very large-scale users might need to look for higher capacity options.

Rating
8.2
Capacity
Material
Design

Most important from
3051 reviews

Capacity
The barrel’s size and weight make it manageable to install alone or with some help, and the wide opening simplifies cleaning and maintenance.
Material
The barrel is made of good hard plastic that feels durable and should last a long time outdoors.
Design
Setup is very easy with just a few parts to attach, and the flat back design allows the barrel to sit flush against a wall for a neat and space-saving installation.
Installation and Placement
The barrel’s size and weight make it manageable to install alone or with some help, and the wide opening simplifies cleaning and maintenance.
Additional Features
The included overflow hose attaches simply with zip ties, though a longer hose might be preferred for some setups.

Buying Guide for the Best Diy Rain Barrels

Choosing the right DIY rain barrel involves understanding your needs and the key specifications that will ensure you get the best fit for your rainwater harvesting system. Rain barrels are a great way to conserve water, reduce your water bill, and help the environment. When selecting a rain barrel, consider factors such as capacity, material, design, and additional features. These specifications will help you determine which rain barrel will work best for your home and garden.
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 collect and 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 areas with high rainfall. Choose a capacity based on your garden size and local rainfall patterns.
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 rustic look and can blend well with garden aesthetics but may require more maintenance. Metal barrels are sturdy and long-lasting but can be prone to rust if not properly treated. Consider the durability, maintenance, and appearance when selecting the material that best suits your needs.
DesignThe design of a rain barrel includes its shape, color, and additional features like spigots, overflow valves, and screens. A well-designed barrel should have a secure lid to prevent debris and insects from entering, a spigot for easy water access, and an overflow valve to manage excess water. Some barrels come with built-in planters or decorative elements. Choose a design that complements your garden and provides the functionality you need.
Installation and PlacementConsider how easy it is to install and place the rain barrel. Some barrels come with installation kits, while others may require additional tools and materials. Think about where you will place the barrel – it should be near a downspout and on a level surface. Ensure the location allows for easy access to the spigot and overflow valve. Choose a barrel that fits well in your chosen spot and is easy to set up.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality of your rain barrel. Look for features like linking kits to connect multiple barrels, diverters to direct water flow, and filters to keep debris out. Some barrels have built-in pumps for easier water distribution. Consider what additional features will make your rainwater harvesting system more efficient and convenient for your specific needs.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now