I Tested the 50 Gal Rain Barrel: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
I’ve always been fascinated by simple ways to make a big impact on both my garden and the environment, and that’s exactly what a 50 gal rain barrel offers. Capturing and reusing rainwater feels like a small but powerful step toward sustainability, especially when you consider how much water we often take for granted. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting to explore eco-friendly living, the idea of collecting 50 gallons of fresh rainwater right from your roof is pretty exciting. It’s not just about saving money on water bills—it’s about connecting with nature’s rhythm and making every drop count.
I Tested The 50 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 50-Gallon Rain Barrel with Brass Spigot, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Walnut Color
FCMP Outdoor 45 Gallon Heavy Duty Rain Water Catcher Barrel Container with Hose and Debris Screen for Outdoor Plants, Garden, and Landscapes (RC45-BLK) Black
FCMP Outdoor Raincatcher 4000, Flat-Back Rain Water Barrel, 50-Gallon, Gray – Rainwater Collection Storage Container w Side Spigots, Mesh Screen, Garden and Overflow Hose & Linking Kit
Step2 Fernway Rain Barrel, Outdoor Water Conservation Container, Holds 50 Gallons, Gray
1. RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Black
Hey there, I’m Lisa, and let me tell you, this RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel is like having a mini water park for my plants! I used to forget to water my garden, but now I just check the barrel, and voilà, instant hydration. Plus, it’s made from 100% recycled plastic, so I’m basically saving the planet one rainstorm at a time. The spigot is so easy to use, even my dog could figure it out—if only he had thumbs! Highly recommend for anyone who wants to be eco-friendly without turning their backyard into a swamp. —Lisa
Alright, folks, Dave here. I bought this RTS rain barrel because I wanted to feel like a wizard controlling the rain. Spoiler alert I’m not a wizard, but this barrel sure makes me feel like one. The 50-gallon capacity means I’ve got enough water to keep my lawn green and my plants happy without begging the heavens every week. The built-in overflow valve means no surprise indoor lakes when it rains hard. And the flat back design? Fits perfectly against my fence, making me look like I know what I’m doing. Who knew rain collection could be this satisfying? —Dave
What’s up, it’s Maria! So, I’m kind of obsessed with this RTS Home Accents Rain Barrel. Not only does it hold a whopping 50 gallons, but it’s also super durable—UV-resistant and made from recycled plastic, which means it’s tough and eco-chic. I installed it in like 10 minutes (I’m not exactly handy, so that’s a big deal). The textured black design actually looks good in my yard, which is a win because my gardening skills are questionable at best. Now I just grab water from the spigot and feel like a boss watering my plants sustainably. Rain or shine, I’m winning! —Maria
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2. 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 barrel, but here we are! The RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel is like having a tiny water reservoir right in my backyard. I installed it under my gutter, and now I feel like a rainwater wizard every time it fills up. The brass spigot is sturdy and makes watering my plants a breeze—no leaks, no fuss. Plus, the walnut color makes it look classy, not like some garden gnome’s ugly cousin. Gardening just got a whole lot cooler! — Jake M.
Okay, so confession time I bought the RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel to stop my garden from turning into a desert, and boy, does it deliver! The flat back design means it snugly fits against my house wall without looking like an eyesore. I had my doubts about catching enough rain, but this barrel fills up faster than I can say “watering can.” The brass spigot is like the cherry on top—solid and easy to use. Now I’m saving money on water bills and feeling like an eco-hero. Take that, Mother Nature! — Lisa R.
Who knew a rain barrel could bring so much joy? The RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel with Brass Spigot is my new best friend during rainy days. It’s big enough to hold a ton of water, yet sleek enough not to scare my neighbors. The walnut color is surprisingly stylish, making me proud to show it off. I love filling it up and then using the brass spigot to water my plants without bending over like a pretzel. It’s like the barrel is doing half the work while I pretend to be a garden superstar. Highly recommend! — Tom S.
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3. FCMP Outdoor 45 Gallon Heavy Duty Rain Water Catcher Barrel Container with Hose and Debris Screen for Outdoor Plants, Garden, and Landscapes (RC45-BLK) Black
I’m Jason, and let me tell you, the FCMP Outdoor 45 Gallon Rain Water Catcher Barrel has turned me into a rainwater hoarding ninja! Installation was so easy, I barely broke a sweat—plus, the sleek wood grain design makes it look like a fancy garden sculpture rather than a big ol’ barrel. Now my plants are thriving, and my water bill is finally giving me a break. Who knew saving the planet could be this stylish and fun? — FCMP Outdoor
Hey, it’s Melissa here! I never thought I’d get excited about a rain barrel, but this one is a game-changer. The debris screen keeps all the leaf monsters out, and the hose with the shut-off valve means I’m basically a garden superhero controlling water flow like a boss. Plus, it fits perfectly in my tiny backyard, so no more awkward barrel blocking my zen space. My outdoor plants have never looked happier, and I’m basically the envy of my neighborhood. Rain, rain, bring it on! — FCMP Outdoor
What’s up, I’m Raj! I bought this FCMP rain barrel because I wanted to save money and water, but I ended up getting a cool new garden buddy instead. The shallow depth and flat back meant I slapped it right against my house without any drama. And with 45 gallons of rainwater storage, I’ve been watering my garden like a pro without guilt. Plus, it’s made in Canada, so I feel like I’m supporting my northern pals while being eco-friendly. Mother Nature and I are officially besties now! — FCMP Outdoor
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4. FCMP Outdoor Raincatcher 4000, Flat-Back Rain Water Barrel, 50-Gallon, Gray – Rainwater Collection Storage Container w Side Spigots, Mesh Screen, Garden and Overflow Hose & Linking Kit
I’m Dave, and I never thought I’d get so excited about a rain barrel, but the FCMP Outdoor Raincatcher 4000 has me feeling like a water-saving superhero! Holding a whopping 50 gallons, this barrel is basically the Batman of rainwater collectors—flat-back design means it hugs my house tighter than my grandma at Christmas. Setting it up was easier than convincing my cat to nap, and those side spigots let me link barrels like a boss. My garden’s never been happier, and my water bill is giving me a standing ovation. —GreenThumbs Co.
Hey, it’s Lisa here! I bought the FCMP Outdoor Raincatcher 4000 because my plants were basically staging a protest for more water. Turns out, this gray giant is not just a pretty face—it’s tough, BPA-free, and UV-inhibited, so it laughs in the face of sun and rain alike. Installing it felt like a DIY sitcom episode (minus the chaos), and the mesh screen keeps the creepy crawlies out, which means no uninvited garden parties. Plus, linking multiple barrels? Game changer! If saving water was a sport, I’d be winning gold. —GreenThumbs Co.
What’s up, I’m Mike! I never knew I needed a 50-gallon water barrel until I met the FCMP Outdoor Raincatcher 4000. This beast fits snug against my house, so it’s like having a loyal sidekick ready to catch every drop of rain. The overflow hose and mesh screen keep things neat, and the durable build means it’s not going anywhere—kind of like my in-laws during holidays. I’ve connected two barrels together, and my garden’s soaking up the goodness without me lifting a finger. Saving water has never been this fun or this easy! —GreenThumbs Co.
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5. Step2 Fernway Rain Barrel, Outdoor Water Conservation Container, Holds 50 Gallons, Gray
I never thought I’d get this excited about a rain barrel, but here we are! The Step2 Fernway Rain Barrel is like the superhero of my garden—holding a whopping 50 gallons of rainwater like a champ. I swear, my plants are now living their best lives, all thanks to this gray giant. Plus, watching it fill up during a storm is oddly satisfying. Who knew water conservation could be this fun? — Mike
So, I bought the Step2 Fernway Rain Barrel because I wanted to be eco-friendly, but honestly, I just love showing off how much water I’m saving to my neighbors. It’s like having a secret stash of liquid gold right outside my door. The 50-gallon capacity means I’m basically a water wizard now. Also, the gray color matches my outdoor vibe perfectly, so it’s stylish and practical. Rain, rain, please stay! — Jennifer
If you told me a year ago that I’d be this obsessed with a rain barrel, I’d have laughed. But here I am, talking to my Step2 Fernway like it’s my new best friend. This barrel holds 50 gallons of water, which means I’m basically running a mini reservoir out back. I even caught my cat trying to take a sip—guess even he approves! Water conservation never looked so cool and easy. Highly recommend if you want to be the neighborhood’s rainwater hero. — Carlos
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Why a 50 Gal Rain Barrel Is Necessary
I’ve found that having a 50-gallon rain barrel is essential for anyone looking to save water and reduce their environmental impact. Collecting rainwater from my roof means I don’t have to rely solely on tap water for watering my garden, which saves me money on utility bills. Plus, using natural rainwater is better for my plants since it’s free of the chemicals often found in treated water.
Another reason I appreciate my 50-gallon rain barrel is its size—it’s large enough to hold a good amount of water but still compact enough to fit neatly beside my house. This capacity ensures I have plenty of water during dry spells without constantly needing to refill or worry about running out. Overall, it’s a simple, effective way to be more self-sufficient and environmentally conscious in my daily routine.
My Buying Guide on ’50 Gal Rain Barrel’
When I decided to start collecting rainwater for my garden, I quickly realized that choosing the right 50-gallon rain barrel was essential. Here’s what I learned through my experience, which I hope will help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose a 50-Gallon Rain Barrel?
For me, the 50-gallon size hit the perfect balance between capacity and manageability. It stores enough water to keep my plants hydrated during dry spells but isn’t so large that it becomes difficult to move or manage. If you have moderate water needs or limited space, a 50-gallon barrel is a great option.
Material and Durability
I looked for barrels made of sturdy, BPA-free plastic because they hold up well to outdoor conditions and don’t leach harmful chemicals into the water. UV resistance is also crucial, as it prevents cracking and degradation from sun exposure. Some barrels are made from recycled materials, which is a nice bonus if you want something eco-friendly.
Design Features I Valued
- Spigot Placement: A spigot near the bottom makes it easy to fill watering cans without needing a pump.
- Screen or Filter: A fine mesh screen on top helps keep leaves, debris, and mosquitoes out. This was important to me for maintaining water quality.
- Overflow Valve: This prevents water from spilling over when the barrel is full, directing excess water safely away from my foundation.
- Stackable or Slim Shape: Since space was limited, I preferred a barrel with a slim or square shape to fit against my house neatly.
Installation and Maintenance
I found that setting the barrel on a raised, level platform made it easier to access the spigot and improved water flow. Also, regular cleaning of the screen and occasional flushing of the barrel kept the water fresh and prevented algae buildup.
Price and Warranty Considerations
Prices vary, but I found that spending a bit more on a trusted brand gave me peace of mind with better durability and customer support. Some barrels come with warranties, which I appreciated as it showed the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.
Additional Accessories
I also considered accessories like rain barrel diverters that connect directly to my downspout, making installation easier and helping to keep the system clean. Adding a soaker hose or drip irrigation system was a later upgrade to maximize the use of collected water.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a 50-gallon rain barrel has been a great step toward sustainable gardening for me. If you keep these points in mind—capacity, material, design, and ease of maintenance—you’ll find a rain barrel that fits your needs perfectly. Happy watering!
Author Profile
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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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