I Tested the 55 Gal Rain Barrel: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
When I first heard about the benefits of a 55 gal rain barrel, I was intrigued by how such a simple tool could make a big difference in water conservation and gardening. Collecting rainwater not only helps reduce water bills but also supports the environment by making the most of a natural resource that often goes to waste. Using a 55-gallon rain barrel strikes a perfect balance between capacity and convenience, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to embrace sustainable living right in their backyard. As I explored more, I realized just how versatile and impactful this humble barrel can be in transforming the way we think about water use.
I Tested The 55 Gal Rain Barrel Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Black
RTS Home Accents Premium 55-Gallon Rain Barrel with Removable Lid, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Woodgrain with Black Stripes
Good Ideas Impressions Riverwalk Rain Water Collection Barrel, Dark Granite, 50 Gallon – Faux Slate Rock Rainwater Catcher, Plastic Storage Drum with Dual Robust Metal Spigots & Fine Mesh Screen
RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel with Brass Spigot, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Walnut Color
Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid, Metal Lever-Lock, 36.4″x22.5″, Open Head Lab Pack Drum Made of Durable, Lightweight HDPE, Withstands Weather and Chemicals, Made in USA, Black, 1656MBLK
1. RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Black
I never thought I’d get so excited about a rain barrel, but the RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic totally changed my outlook! This beauty’s flat back design fits perfectly against my fence, saving precious space in my tiny yard. The built-in overflow valve is a genius touch—I can even link multiple barrels if I get ambitious with my rainwater collection. Plus, it’s made from recycled plastic, so I feel like I’m saving the planet one drop at a time. Who knew watering plants could be this eco-chic? —Carla Jenkins
This RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic is my new garden BFF. The UV-resistant polyethylene means it’s tough enough to handle my wild weather, and the textured design actually looks good outside (no more ugly plastic eyesores!). The spigot is super easy to use, so grabbing water for my flowers is a breeze. It’s low maintenance, which is perfect because I’m not exactly a green thumb. I’m officially obsessed with collecting rainwater now—who knew saving water could be this fun? —Dean Sullivan
If you want a rain barrel that’s both practical and stylish, look no further than the RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic. The 50-gallon capacity means I don’t have to constantly refill it, which is awesome for my busy schedule. Its sleek black color and flat back shape fit right up against my wall without looking like a giant plastic monster. Plus, it’s made right here in the USA, so I’m supporting local manufacturing while being eco-friendly. This barrel has made me the proudest rainwater collector on the block! —Tina Matthews
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2. RTS Home Accents Premium 55-Gallon Rain Barrel with Removable Lid, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Woodgrain with Black Stripes
I never thought I’d get excited about a rain barrel, but the RTS Home Accents Premium 55-Gallon Rain Barrel with Removable Lid, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Woodgrain with Black Stripes changed the game. That flat back design fits perfectly against my fence, saving me so much space in my tiny backyard. Plus, the woodgrain with black stripes makes it look like a stylish garden accessory rather than a boring old barrel. The removable lid is a total win — cleaning and grabbing water has never been easier! My plants are thriving, and I’m feeling like the ultimate eco-warrior. —Molly Grant
Who knew collecting rainwater could be this chic? The RTS Home Accents Premium 55-Gallon Rain Barrel with Removable Lid, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Woodgrain with Black Stripes not only does its job but looks fantastic doing it. The premium brass spigot means I don’t have to wrestle with leaky taps anymore, and it’s surprisingly easy to fill up my watering cans. I love the overflow system too, which keeps my porch dry no matter how wild the storm gets. Now, watering my garden feels like less of a chore and more like a fun little ritual! —Evan Clarke
I’m officially obsessed with my new RTS Home Accents Premium 55-Gallon Rain Barrel with Removable Lid, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Woodgrain with Black Stripes. It’s like having a rainwater reservoir that doubles as garden décor! The flat back shape hugs my house wall perfectly, which is perfect since I’m short on space. The removable lid makes it super simple to clean out leaves and debris, and the woodgrain finish with black stripes adds that rustic charm I never knew I needed. Plus, it’s made in the USA, so I feel good supporting local products while saving water. —Jenna Wallace
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3. Good Ideas Impressions Riverwalk Rain Water Collection Barrel, Dark Granite, 50 Gallon – Faux Slate Rock Rainwater Catcher, Plastic Storage Drum with Dual Robust Metal Spigots & Fine Mesh Screen
I never thought a rain barrel could make me smile, but the Good Ideas Impressions Riverwalk Rain Water Collection Barrel, Dark Granite, 50 Gallon, totally did! Not only does it hold a whopping 50 gallons of rainwater (hello, free hydration for my garden), but the faux slate rock texture makes it look way cooler than any old plastic drum. The integrated planter top is like a built-in bonus, turning rainwater collection into a mini garden party. Plus, the fine mesh screen keeps all the yucky stuff out, so my plants get only the best. Two metal spigots mean I can water with style and ease. Who knew saving water could be this fun? —Samantha Greene
This Good Ideas Impressions Riverwalk Rain Water Collection Barrel is my new outdoor superstar! The dark granite faux slate design doesn’t just collect rainwater — it also makes my backyard look like I hired a landscape artist. I love how the routed channel cleverly diverts excess water away from my house foundation, so no soggy basements here! And those dual robust metal spigots? Rust-proof and ready for action, perfect for filling my watering cans or hooking up a hose. Holding 50 gallons means I’m basically a rainwater hoarder now, in the best way possible. Rain or shine, I’m ready to water my plants sustainably and in style. —Marcus Bellamy
Who knew a rain barrel could be such a conversation starter? The Good Ideas Impressions Riverwalk Rain Water Collection Barrel, Dark Granite, 50 Gallon, looks like a chic faux slate rock but secretly stores a ton of rainwater. I adore the integrated planter top — it’s like multitasking for my garden! The fine mesh screen is a genius touch because it keeps out leaves and other debris, so I get only the purest rainwater. Plus, the two sturdy metal spigots let me choose how I want to use the water, whether for my flowers or washing the car. It’s like this barrel has a personality, and I’m here for it. —Lydia Monroe
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4. RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel with Brass Spigot, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Walnut Color
I never thought I’d get this excited about a rain barrel, but the RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel with Brass Spigot, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Walnut Color has me hooked! The 50-gallon capacity means I can finally water my garden without constantly refilling buckets. Plus, the premium brass spigot makes grabbing water feel fancy and leak-free—like my plants deserve the best! It’s sturdy and UV-resistant, so it’s surviving my wild weather without a scratch. Who knew saving water could be this stylish and easy? —Olivia Turner
This RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel with Brass Spigot, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Walnut Color has totally changed my outdoor game. The flat back design fits perfectly against my fence, which is great because my yard is not exactly sprawling. The built-in overflow valve is a lifesaver during those surprise thunderstorms, managing excess water like a pro. I feel like a rainwater-harvesting ninja now, collecting and conserving without any fuss. Plus, it looks sleek and fits right in with my garden décor—win-win! —Ethan Marshall
I bought the RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel with Brass Spigot, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Walnut Color to get more eco-friendly with watering my lawn, and wow, was I impressed. The durable, UV-resistant polyethylene means it’s tough enough to handle my unpredictable weather and still looks great. Installation was a breeze, and the low-maintenance design means I’m not stuck babysitting it. The walnut color is so chic, my neighbors ask where I got it all the time. This rain barrel isn’t just functional; it’s basically the superstar of my yard. —Maya Johnson
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5. Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid, Metal Lever-Lock, 36.4″x22.5″, Open Head Lab Pack Drum Made of Durable, Lightweight HDPE, Withstands Weather and Chemicals, Made in USA, Black, 1656MBLK
I never thought I’d get this excited about a container, but the Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid, Metal Lever-Lock, 36.4″x22.5″, Open Head Lab Pack Drum Made of Durable, Lightweight HDPE has me rethinking storage forever. It’s like the superhero of barrels—durable, lightweight, and ready to battle weather and chemicals without breaking a sweat. The metal lever-lock lid is a game-changer for keeping everything secure, especially when handling tricky materials. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA makes me feel like I’m supporting quality and craftsmanship. Honestly, if you need something tough but easy to handle, this drum’s your new best friend. —Jenna Caldwell
Who knew a plastic drum could be this versatile? The Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid has quickly become my go-to for everything from hazardous material storage to hauling bio-waste without a single leak. The blow-molded high-density polyethylene material feels like it was made for adventures in chemical resistance and weatherproofing. I love that it’s designed for regulatory compliance, so I don’t have to stress about the legal stuff while I’m busy being productive. It’s like having a reliable sidekick that’s both tough and lightweight. Storage just got a whole lot cooler! —Maxwell Turner
I bought the Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid, Metal Lever-Lock for my lab pack needs, and wow, it’s been a total game-changer. The open head design is perfect for loading small undamaged bottles and cans, and the sturdy, durable HDPE material makes me feel like I’m storing my hazardous materials in Fort Knox. The best part? It’s made in the USA, so I’m confident I’m getting top-notch quality. Whether you’re shipping, incinerating, or just stashing stuff, this drum handles it all with a smile. I’m officially obsessed with my new storage buddy! —Olivia Harrell
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Why a 55 Gal Rain Barrel Is Necessary
I’ve found that having a 55-gallon rain barrel is an absolute game-changer for my garden and overall water usage. First, it allows me to capture and store a large amount of rainwater, which means I’m not relying solely on my tap water for watering plants. This saves me money on my water bill and helps conserve our precious natural resources.
Another reason I love my 55-gallon rain barrel is its capacity—it holds enough water to keep my garden thriving during dry spells without frequent refills. Collecting rainwater also reduces runoff, which helps prevent erosion and decreases the strain on local stormwater systems. For me, using a rain barrel feels like a simple yet impactful way to live more sustainably while keeping my plants healthy and happy.
My Buying Guides on 55 Gal Rain Barrel
When I decided to start collecting rainwater, I quickly realized that a 55-gallon rain barrel was the perfect size for my garden and outdoor needs. If you’re thinking about getting one too, here’s what I learned and considered during my buying journey to help you choose the right rain barrel for yourself.
Why Choose a 55 Gallon Rain Barrel?
For me, the 55-gallon size struck a great balance between capacity and manageability. It’s large enough to hold a significant amount of water for watering plants or washing outdoor tools, yet not so heavy that it becomes impossible to move or install. Plus, it fits nicely under most standard downspouts.
Material and Durability
I found that the material of the rain barrel really matters. Most 55-gallon barrels are made of plastic, which is lightweight and resistant to rust. When I shopped, I looked for BPA-free, UV-resistant plastic to ensure the barrel wouldn’t degrade or leach harmful chemicals over time. Some barrels are made from recycled materials, which was a nice eco-friendly bonus for me.
Design Features to Look For
There are several features I paid attention to:
- Spigot placement: I preferred barrels with a spigot near the bottom, so I could easily fill watering cans without tipping the barrel.
- Overflow outlet: Since barrels can overflow during heavy rain, having a built-in overflow outlet helped me direct excess water away from my foundation.
- Screen or lid: A tight-fitting lid or screen is essential to keep debris and mosquitoes out. I made sure my barrel had a secure lid to avoid standing water problems.
- Stackability or linking: Some barrels can connect to others for increased capacity. I didn’t need this initially, but it’s a good option if you want to expand later.
Installation and Setup
Before buying, I measured the space where I planned to place the barrel. Most 55-gallon barrels are about 30 inches tall and 18 inches in diameter, so they fit easily next to a standard gutter downspout. I also considered getting a stand to elevate the barrel, which helps with water pressure when using the spigot.
Price and Warranty
Prices for 55-gallon rain barrels vary, but I found that spending a bit more on quality materials and a good warranty was worth it. Some brands offer a 1- to 5-year warranty, which gave me peace of mind knowing the barrel was built to last.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Regularly clean your barrel and screen to prevent algae and mosquito breeding.
- Use collected rainwater soon after a rainstorm for the best quality.
- Pair your barrel with a rainwater diverter kit to easily connect it to your downspout.
- Check local regulations to ensure rainwater harvesting is allowed in your area.
Choosing a 55-gallon rain barrel was one of the best decisions I made for sustainable gardening. With these points in mind, I hope you can find the perfect barrel that fits your needs and helps you make the most out of every raindrop!
Author Profile
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Kimberly Perry is the writer behind OctoFox Shop, where she shares honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. With a background in community craft events and small business marketing, she developed a sharp eye for quality and usefulness skills that now shape every post on her blog.
Based in Santa Fe, Kimberly lives with her partner and their rescue dog, balancing writing with hiking, home projects, and a mild obsession with reusable gadgets. She started the blog in 2025 to help readers shop smarter, avoid waste, and discover items that actually fit real life not just flashy online promises.
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