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 ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,301
Capacity
Material
Design

Most important from
3452 reviews

Capacity
The sleek black finish blends well outdoors while the barrel’s size balances capacity and space-saving needs.
Material
Constructed from 100% recycled plastic, the barrel offers sturdy, eco-friendly water storage.
Design
The rain barrel is easy to set up and fits perfectly in tight spaces with its flat-back design.
Installation and Placement
The spigot placement allows for convenient filling of watering cans and attaching hoses without leaks.
Additional Features
The mesh screen on top effectively keeps out debris and mosquitoes, maintaining clean water.

The RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel is a solid choice for anyone looking to collect rainwater efficiently for their garden or lawn. Its 50-gallon capacity is a good size for typical home use, providing a decent amount of water storage without being too bulky. The barrel is made from 100% recycled, UV-resistant polyethylene plastic, which means it’s both eco-friendly and built to last through sun exposure and outdoor conditions. Its flat back design is smart for saving space by fitting neatly against walls or fences, making it ideal for yards with limited room. Installation is straightforward since it requires no assembly and includes a convenient plastic spigot for easy access to the stored water. One handy feature is the built-in overflow valve, which helps manage excess water and allows you to connect additional barrels if you want to increase your storage capacity.

The barrel has a sleek textured black finish that blends well outdoors, though a stand is sold separately if you want to elevate it for better water flow. The product carries a 1-year warranty and is made in the USA, which may appeal to buyers looking for local manufacturing. On the downside, the barrel is relatively lightweight at 18 pounds, so it might feel less sturdy than heavier models when full, and since it’s plastic, it may not be as durable as metal options over many years. Additionally, if you live in a very large garden or need more water storage, you might need multiple barrels.

This rain barrel is well suited for homeowners who want a simple, environmentally friendly, and space-saving water collection system with easy setup and maintenance.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,301
Capacity
Material
Design

Most important from
3452 reviews

Capacity
The sleek black finish blends well outdoors while the barrel’s size balances capacity and space-saving needs.
Material
Constructed from 100% recycled plastic, the barrel offers sturdy, eco-friendly water storage.
Design
The rain barrel is easy to set up and fits perfectly in tight spaces with its flat-back design.
Installation and Placement
The spigot placement allows for convenient filling of watering cans and attaching hoses without leaks.
Additional Features
The mesh screen on top effectively keeps out debris and mosquitoes, maintaining clean water.
#2

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

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Material
Design

Most important from
182 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
9.4
Capacity
Material
Design

Most important from
182 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.
#3

RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel with Link Kit, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Link Kit Included, Woodgrain with Black Stripes (2 Pack)

Rating
8.5
Material
Installation and Placement
Additional Features

Most important from
11 reviews

Material
The barrels are lightweight yet sturdy, making them easy to handle and install.
Installation and Placement
The barrels are lightweight yet sturdy, making them easy to handle and install.
Additional Features
The drain spout is prone to clogging but is easy to clean, ensuring smooth operation.

The RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel with Link Kit is an excellent option for homeowners looking to collect and store rainwater. With a total capacity of 100 gallons (since it comes in a 2-pack), this product is well-suited for larger water storage needs or for those who want to link multiple barrels together. The polyethylene material is UV-resistant, ensuring durability and long-lasting use, while the woodgrain design with black stripes adds a touch of aesthetic appeal. The flat back design makes it ideal for placement against walls or fences, saving space and making it easy to fit into tight areas.

Installation and maintenance are straightforward, thanks to included accessories like the brass spigots, Teflon tape, aluminum screens, hose barbs, and a linking kit. The built-in overflow valve is a thoughtful addition, preventing potential flooding by safely managing water overflow. However, some users might find the necessity of purchasing a separate stand inconvenient. Additionally, while the product ships in more than one package, this could lead to potential delays or confusion during delivery. The rain barrel is made in the USA, adding to its appeal for those who prefer domestically-produced items.

Rating
8.5
Material
Installation and Placement
Additional Features

Most important from
11 reviews

Material
The barrels are lightweight yet sturdy, making them easy to handle and install.
Installation and Placement
The barrels are lightweight yet sturdy, making them easy to handle and install.
Additional Features
The drain spout is prone to clogging but is easy to clean, ensuring smooth operation.

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