Have you ever noticed how your garden seems to flourish right after a good downpour? That’s because rainwater is naturally soft and free of the chlorine and minerals found in tap water, which can be harsh on plant roots. Your chickens and plants instinctively prefer it. What if you could have that fresh, nutrient-rich water on demand, even on sunny days? A rain barrel allows you to do just that. By collecting runoff from your roof, you create a personal reservoir of the best possible water for your garden and flock, giving them a natural advantage for lush, healthy growth.
Key Takeaways
- Give Your Garden Better Water and Save Money: Rainwater is naturally soft and free of the chemicals found in tap water, making it healthier for your plants and flock. Capturing this free resource directly lowers your monthly water bill, making it a smart investment for your backyard.
- Prioritize Key Features for Long-Term Use: When choosing a barrel, focus on the non-negotiables: a durable, UV-resistant material to withstand the elements, a secure screen to keep out debris and pests, and an overflow port to safely manage excess water.
- Check for Local Rules and Rebates: Rainwater collection is legal and encouraged in most areas, but it’s wise to confirm your local guidelines. Before you buy, check your city or water utility’s website—you might find financial incentives or rebates that help pay for your new barrel.
What is a Rain Barrel (And Why Does Your Garden Need One?)
Simply put, a rain barrel is a container that connects to your home’s downspout to collect and store rainwater from your roof. Think of it as a personal reservoir for your garden, giving you a free supply of water every time it rains. While it might seem like a simple concept, adding one to your backyard is one of the smartest and easiest moves you can make for your garden, your wallet, and the environment. It’s a perfect complement to a sustainable backyard, whether you're tending to a flock of chickens or a patch of prize-winning tomatoes.
The benefits go far beyond just having extra water on hand. The water you collect is actually better for your plants than what comes out of the tap. Using rain barrels also helps lower your utility bills and reduces your home's environmental footprint by managing stormwater runoff. It’s a small change that creates a positive ripple effect. Let’s look at exactly why a rain barrel is such a great addition to your home.
Healthier Plants
Have you ever noticed how your garden seems to thrive after a good rain? There’s a reason for that. Rainwater is naturally soft, slightly acidic, and free of the chlorine and other treatment chemicals found in most municipal tap water. These additives can build up in your soil over time and be harsh on sensitive plants. Your plants will thank you for giving them water that’s pure and at a natural, ambient temperature, which avoids shocking their roots with a blast of cold tap water. Using rainwater is one of the best ways to give your garden a natural advantage for lush, healthy growth.
Lower Water Bills
Watering your garden, washing your tools, or rinsing off muddy boots can really add up on your monthly water bill, especially during the dry summer months. A rain barrel captures a valuable resource that would otherwise just flow down the drain. Every gallon of rainwater you use is a gallon you don’t have to pay for. A single storm can easily fill a 50-gallon barrel, giving you a substantial supply of free water for all your outdoor needs. Over a season, the savings can be significant, making a rain barrel a wise investment that quickly pays for itself.
A Greener Footprint
When you install a rain barrel, you’re doing more than just saving water; you’re helping protect your local environment. Rainwater that runs off your roof and driveway becomes stormwater runoff, picking up pollutants like pesticides, fertilizers, and oil along the way. This polluted water then flows into nearby streams, rivers, and lakes, harming aquatic ecosystems. By capturing rainwater, you reduce the amount of runoff leaving your property, which helps keep your local waterways cleaner and healthier. It’s a simple, direct action you can take to make a positive environmental impact right in your own backyard.
Explore Different Types of Rain Barrels
Once you decide to start collecting rainwater, you’ll find there’s a rain barrel for every type of garden and home. The right one for you really comes down to your space, your water needs, and your personal style. From simple, functional barrels to ones that look like garden art, let’s walk through the most common options to help you find the perfect match for your backyard. These systems are a fantastic addition to any home, especially when paired with other sustainable backyard features like a high-quality chicken coop and other coop accessories.
Standard Rain Barrels
Think of the standard rain barrel as the reliable workhorse of rainwater collection. These are typically no-fuss, functional containers, often holding between 30 and 50 gallons of water. They’re designed to do one job and do it well: capture runoff from your roof so you have a fresh supply of water for your plants and flock. If you’re just getting started with rainwater harvesting or have a smaller garden, a standard barrel is an excellent and affordable choice. It’s a simple, effective way to make your garden a little more self-sufficient and eco-friendly.
Decorative Rain Barrels
Who says functional can’t be beautiful? If you’ve put time and love into creating a gorgeous backyard space, a decorative rain barrel can be the perfect finishing touch. These barrels are designed to complement your home and garden aesthetic, coming in a variety of finishes that mimic terra cotta, stone, or woodgrain. You can find one to match your patio furniture or even the paint on your coop! It’s the perfect way to integrate rainwater collection seamlessly into your landscape. We even offer stylish rain barrels that look right at home next to one of our coops.
Collapsible Rain Barrels
If you’re short on space or only need to collect water during certain seasons, a collapsible rain barrel is a brilliant solution. Made from durable, flexible materials, these barrels can be set up in minutes when the rainy season starts and then folded down for compact storage during dry months or winter. This makes them perfect for urban gardeners, renters, or anyone who doesn't want a permanent fixture in their yard. They offer all the benefits of rainwater collection without the long-term commitment, giving you flexibility and convenience when you need it most.
Large-Capacity Rain Barrels
For the serious gardener, homesteader, or anyone with a large property, a standard barrel might not cut it. That’s where large-capacity rain barrels come in. These systems can hold hundreds of gallons of water, ensuring you have a substantial reserve to get your garden and animals through long, dry spells. While they are a bigger investment, they provide peace of mind and a serious commitment to water conservation. Integrating a large water collection system can be a key part of a bigger homestead vision, much like planning for one of our custom coop projects.
6 Key Features to Look For in a Rain Barrel
Shopping for a rain barrel can feel a bit like choosing a new appliance—the options are endless. But once you know what to look for, finding the perfect one for your coop and garden is simple. A great rain barrel isn't just a container; it's a functional tool that should be durable, safe, and easy to use. Let's walk through the six essential features that separate a good rain barrel from a great one, ensuring you make a choice you'll be happy with for years to come.
Material and Durability
Your rain barrel will be sitting outside year-round, so it needs to be tough enough to handle everything from scorching sun to freezing temperatures. Most barrels are made from heavy-duty, UV-resistant plastic like polyethylene, which is a fantastic, long-lasting option. If aesthetics are a top priority, you can also find barrels made from resin or composite materials designed to look like classic wooden casks or stone. These can beautifully complement your coop's design. The key is to choose a material that won't crack, fade, or warp, ensuring your investment holds up through the seasons.
Capacity and Size
Rain barrels typically range from 50 to 100 gallons, and choosing the right size depends on your roof area and how much water you plan to use. For most backyard coops, a 50- to 75-gallon barrel is a perfect starting point. It’s large enough to capture a significant amount of water from a single downpour without taking up too much space. Before you buy, measure the area where you plan to place it to make sure it fits comfortably next to your downspout. You can find a variety of sizes among our coop accessories to match your setup.
Built-In Overflow
A quality rain barrel should always have an overflow port. You’d be surprised how quickly a barrel can fill up during a steady rain, and you need a way to direct that excess water safely away from your coop’s foundation. An overflow system, which is usually just a spout near the top of the barrel, allows you to connect a hose and channel the water to another part of your garden, a second rain barrel, or a drainage area. This simple feature is critical for preventing soggy ground and potential water damage around your coop.
Spigot and Hose Hookups
Getting the water out of the barrel should be just as easy as getting it in. Look for a model with a sturdy, threaded spigot near the bottom. This allows you to easily fill a watering can or attach a standard garden hose. For the best water pressure, place your rain barrel on a stand or a stack of cinder blocks. This elevation uses gravity to help the water flow more freely from the spigot. A brass spigot is generally more durable than a plastic one and is less likely to become brittle over time.
Debris and Mosquito Screen
Standing water can be a breeding ground for mosquitoes, and you don’t want leaves, twigs, or other gunk contaminating your collected rainwater. A good rain barrel will have a tight-fitting lid with a built-in screen. This mesh cover allows water to flow in while keeping debris and pesky insects out. It’s a simple but essential feature for maintaining clean water and a healthy backyard environment for you and your flock. Some models even have a removable screen, which makes occasional cleaning a breeze.
Simple Installation and Use
You shouldn't need a plumbing license to set up your rain barrel. The best models are designed for straightforward, DIY installation. Many come as a kit with a diverter that attaches to your downspout, making the whole process quick and easy. Before you start, it’s a good idea to check out some guides. The EPA offers helpful resources on how to properly install and use your barrel, ensuring you get it right the first time. A user-friendly design means you’ll be collecting rainwater in no time.
Our Favorite Rain Barrel Brands
With so many rain barrels on the market, finding the right one can feel a bit overwhelming. To make it easier, we’ve put together a list of our favorite brands that consistently deliver on quality, design, and function. Each of these companies brings something unique to the table, whether you’re looking for a simple, eco-friendly solution or a decorative piece that complements your garden’s aesthetic. Think of this as your curated short list for finding the perfect rain barrel for your home and coop.
Cutest Coops Rain Barrels
Of course, we have to start with our own. We designed our Earth-Friendly Rain Barrel with the same attention to detail and quality you expect from our coops. Made from 100% recycled plastic, it’s a choice you can feel good about. The flat-back design allows it to sit flush against a wall, and the easy-to-adapt spout makes collecting water a breeze. We also offer an optional stand to elevate it for better access. It’s a practical, durable, and eco-conscious addition that perfectly matches the craftsmanship of our other coop accessories.
RTS Home Accents
If style is a top priority, RTS Home Accents is a brand worth exploring. They are well-known for creating rain barrels that are as beautiful as they are functional. Their products often feature attractive textures and finishes that mimic real stone or wood, allowing them to blend seamlessly into your landscape design. Made from durable, recycled materials, these barrels prove you don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics for sustainability. Their diverse collection ensures you can find a design that truly enhances your outdoor space while providing a practical water-saving solution.
EarthMinded
For those who appreciate a straightforward, user-friendly approach, EarthMinded is an excellent choice. This brand specializes in making rainwater collection simple for everyone. Many of their barrels come as a complete kit, which includes their innovative diverter system. This system makes connecting the barrel to your downspout incredibly easy and helps prevent overflow. EarthMinded’s focus on simple installation and practical design empowers homeowners to start conserving water without any hassle, making it a fantastic option for beginners.
Good Ideas
Good Ideas lives up to its name by offering some of the most innovative and decorative rain barrels available. They are masters of disguise, with barrels that look like classic pottery, stone pillars, or rustic oak casks. This allows you to add a stylish, functional element to your garden that doesn't scream "rain barrel." Beyond their looks, these barrels are built from recycled, weather-resistant materials. The brand’s Rain Wizard line is especially popular, known for its robust construction and a wide variety of sizes to fit any garden’s needs.
Rain Wizard
A standout collection from the Good Ideas brand, Rain Wizard barrels are celebrated for their durability and practical design. These are workhorse barrels built to last. They come in a range of sizes, from a compact 40 gallons to larger 65-gallon options, so you can choose the capacity that best suits your rainfall and watering needs. Many Rain Wizard models feature a screen to keep out debris and pests, along with a built-in overflow system to manage excess water during heavy storms. Their sturdy construction makes them a reliable choice for anyone serious about rainwater harvesting.
How Much Do Rain Barrels Cost?
Let’s talk numbers. When you’re planning a new addition to your garden or coop area, the budget is always a top consideration. The great news about rain barrels is that there’s truly an option for every price point. You can find simple, functional barrels for less than the cost of a bag of premium chicken feed, or you can invest in a high-capacity, decorative model that becomes a beautiful landscape feature.
The price of a rain barrel depends on a few key things: its size (capacity), the material it’s made from, and any extra features it includes, like fancy spigots or intricate designs. Think of it as an investment that pays you back over time with lower water bills and happier, healthier plants. To help you figure out what makes sense for your space and budget, we can break the options down into a few common categories.
Budget-Friendly Options
If you’re just getting started with rainwater collection or have a smaller garden, you don’t need to spend a lot. You can find basic, no-frills rain barrels for well under $100. These are typically made from recycled plastic and focus purely on function. While they might not win any design awards, they get the job done efficiently. These models are a fantastic way to dip your toes into harvesting rainwater without a big upfront commitment. Retailers like Home Depot offer a wide selection that lets you easily compare these entry-level options.
Mid-Range Models
This is the sweet spot for most backyard chicken keepers and gardeners. In the $100 to $250 range, you’ll find barrels that offer a great balance of durability, style, and capacity. A best-selling 50-gallon model, for example, often sits around $200. At this price, you can expect sturdier materials, more attractive finishes that mimic stone or wood, and better-quality brass spigots. These barrels are designed to last for years and blend in nicely with your other coop accessories. They provide enough water for most daily gardening tasks without taking up too much space.
Premium and High-Capacity Barrels
For those with larger gardens, a whole flock to water, or a desire for a truly seamless look, premium models are the way to go. These barrels can cost anywhere from $250 to over $1,000. The higher price tag gets you superior craftsmanship, designer aesthetics, and much larger capacities, often ranging from 90 to 125 gallons or more. They are often part of a larger, integrated system that can be incorporated into your home and coop design. If you’ve invested in a beautiful, high-quality coop, a premium rain barrel can be the perfect finishing touch for your setup.
How to Find the Best Deals
A little savvy shopping can help you save money no matter which type of barrel you choose. Many online retailers, like The Rain Barrel Depot, offer a small discount on your first order just for signing up for their email list. It’s also worth checking your local municipality’s website; many cities offer rebates or credits for residents who install rain barrels as a water conservation measure. Finally, keep an eye out for end-of-season sales in the fall, when garden centers are clearing out inventory to make room for winter products.
How to Install and Maintain Your Rain Barrel
Pick the Perfect Spot
The best location for your rain barrel is right under one of your home or coop’s downspouts. This placement allows you to collect rainwater that runs off your roof, maximizing your collection potential. Make sure the ground is level and stable enough to support the weight of a full barrel—water is heavy! Placing it on cinder blocks or a dedicated stand can also provide enough height to easily fit a watering can under the spigot. Think about convenience, too. Setting it up near your garden or chicken run means you won't have to haul water very far when your plants or flock get thirsty.
A Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Most rain barrels, including our beautiful coop accessories, are designed for simple installation. You'll typically start by modifying your downspout to direct water into the barrel's opening. One of the most important features is a good overflow system. When the barrel fills up, you need a way for the excess water to drain away from your foundation, so be sure to connect and position the overflow hose properly. A full barrel is a wonderful thing, but you definitely don't want the overflow creating a puddle right next to your house or coop.
Keep it Clean: Simple Maintenance
A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your collected rainwater fresh and ready for use. Always keep the lid on your barrel to prevent leaves, debris, and bugs from getting in. Most barrels come with a screen to cover the main opening, which is your first line of defense. For extra-clean water, you can attach a finer mesh screen or even an old paint strainer to the end of your downspout. This simple trick catches smaller debris from the roof before it ever reaches your barrel, making your job easier and ensuring your chickens and plants get clean rainwater.
How to Winterize Your Rain Barrel
If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, winterizing your rain barrel is a must-do task to prevent damage. As water freezes, it expands, and that pressure can easily crack or burst your barrel. Before the first hard frost, make sure to completely drain your rain barrel. Then, disconnect it from the downspout and redirect the spout away from your foundation for the winter. If you have space, storing the empty barrel in a garage or shed is ideal. If not, simply turn it upside down in its spot to keep water and snow from collecting inside. This simple step ensures your barrel will be ready for action again next spring.
Get the Most Out of Your Rain Barrel
Once your rain barrel is set up, you’re ready to start reaping the benefits. But don't just stop at watering your petunias. With a few simple strategies, you can turn that single barrel into a cornerstone of your garden and coop management. Think of it as your personal, on-demand water source, ready to make your backyard chores easier and more sustainable. Let's explore a few ways to maximize every drop.
Connect Multiple Barrels for More Water
You might be surprised by how quickly a single 50-gallon barrel fills up during a steady rain. If you live in an area with heavy downpours or have a large garden, one barrel might not be enough. The solution is simple: connect multiple barrels. By linking two or more barrels together, you can create a system that significantly increases your water storage capacity. When the first barrel fills, the overflow automatically diverts to the next one in line. You can find easy-to-use linking kits online or at hardware stores, making this a straightforward weekend project that pays off all season long.
Creative Ways to Use Your Rainwater
The most obvious use for rainwater is for your garden, lawn, and indoor plants. Because it’s naturally soft and free of chlorine and other chemicals found in tap water, your plants will love it. But don't stop there. Use your collected rainwater to wash garden tools, muddy boots, or your car. It’s also perfect for rinsing out your chicken’s feeders and waterers. Having a rain barrel right next to your coop makes cleaning a breeze and is just one of many coop accessories that can simplify your routine. Using rainwater this way helps reduce stormwater runoff, which protects local waterways from pollution.
Common Rain Barrel Myths, Busted
One of the biggest myths about collecting rainwater is that it’s illegal. While a few states have specific regulations, most not only allow it but actively encourage it. Many municipalities even offer rebates or incentives for installing rain barrels. Another misconception is that rain barrels are only for small-scale gardening. In reality, they are often the first step toward a more comprehensive water conservation plan. Think of your rain barrel as a "gateway" to rainwater harvesting. It’s an accessible and affordable way to start making a real difference in your water usage and your garden’s health.
Is Collecting Rainwater Legal Where You Live?
Before you add a beautiful new rain barrel to your garden, it’s smart to get familiar with your local guidelines. You might have heard whispers that collecting rainwater is illegal, but that’s largely a myth. While a few states have some specific restrictions, most places in the U.S. not only allow rainwater harvesting but actively encourage it. After all, it’s a fantastic way to conserve water and reduce stormwater runoff, which is a win for everyone.
Think of it this way: your local and state governments want to manage water resources effectively, and homeowners who collect rainwater are helping them do just that. The rules in place are typically designed to ensure that water is collected safely and doesn't negatively impact anyone else. For backyard farmers and chicken keepers, this is great news. It means you can confidently set up a system to provide fresh, natural water for your plants and flock. Taking a few minutes to check the rules is a simple step that ensures you’re doing everything by the book.
Know Your State's Regulations
The first thing to know is that rainwater harvesting rules are handled at the state level, and they can vary quite a bit. The good news is that the vast majority of states are on board with the practice. In fact, many have passed laws to protect a homeowner's right to collect rainwater. States like Texas and Virginia, for example, have specific statutes that permit and even promote it. A quick online search for "rainwater harvesting laws" in your state will usually give you a clear picture of the regulations. You can often find this information on your state's Department of Environmental Quality or water resources website. This will help you understand any specific requirements, like whether there are limits on the amount of water you can collect.
Check Your Local Rules
Once you have a handle on your state’s stance, the next step is to look at your local rules. Your city, county, or even your homeowner's association (HOA) might have its own set of guidelines. These local ordinances often focus on the practical side of things, like where you can place your rain barrel or how you need to manage overflow to prevent water from flooding your neighbor’s yard. You can typically find this information on your local government's website or by calling your city's planning or water department. Taking this extra step ensures your rain barrel setup is not only efficient but also fully compliant with all local codes, keeping your project smooth and neighbor-friendly.
Find Water Conservation Incentives
Here’s the really exciting part: some areas will actually reward you for collecting rainwater. Many municipalities and water districts offer financial incentives to encourage residents to adopt sustainable practices. These can come in the form of rebates on the purchase of a rain barrel, discounts on your stormwater utility fee, or even tax credits. For example, some cities offer a certain amount back for every gallon of storage you install. It’s definitely worth checking your local water utility's website for any available programs. You might just find that your new rain barrel not only saves you money on your water bill but also puts a little cash back in your pocket.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the water from a rain barrel safe for my chickens to drink? Absolutely. Rainwater is a wonderful, natural water source for your flock. It’s free of the chlorine and other treatment chemicals found in tap water, which is a big plus for your chickens' health. Just be sure to keep your barrel’s screen lid secure to prevent leaves, droppings, or other debris from contaminating the water, ensuring your girls always have a fresh, clean drink.
Will my rain barrel attract mosquitoes? This is a common concern, but a properly sealed rain barrel won't become a mosquito breeding ground. Quality barrels are designed with tight-fitting lids and fine mesh screens over any openings. These features allow water to get in but keep insects and debris out. As long as you ensure the screen is intact and the lid is secure, you won’t have to worry about creating a pest problem.
How much water can I realistically expect to collect? You might be surprised by just how much water you can gather from a single storm. A good rule of thumb is that for every inch of rain that falls, you can collect about half a gallon of water per square foot of your roof. A standard 50-gallon barrel can easily fill up from the runoff of a small- to medium-sized roof during a decent downpour, giving you a substantial supply for your garden and coop chores.
What should I do with my rain barrel during a long dry spell? When your rain barrel is empty during a dry period, it’s best to keep the lid on and the spigot closed. This prevents dirt, debris, and critters from getting inside while you wait for the next rain. An empty barrel also presents a perfect opportunity for a quick cleaning. A simple rinse with a hose and a light scrub is all it takes to get it ready for the next downpour.
How often do I need to clean my rain barrel? Maintaining your rain barrel is surprisingly simple. A full cleaning once or twice a year is usually all that’s needed to keep it in great shape. The best times to do this are in the spring before the rainy season begins and in the fall when you’re winterizing it. Just give the inside a good scrub with a brush and a simple vinegar solution to remove any sediment or algae buildup.