8 Decorative Rain Barrels
Updated: Nov. 02, 2023
Rain barrels can be functional and attractive. Here's a collection of decorative rain barrels for you to choose from.
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What Is a Rain Barrel?
A rain barrel is a container typically placed below downspouts of a home or other building that captures rainwater for non-potable uses, like watering plants or rinsing off garden tools.
Rain barrels are beneficial to people and the planet. They provide an easy and eco-friendly way to use a natural resource, reduce erosion and alleviate pressure on local municipal water systems.
Best Wine Barrel-Style Rain Barrel
Get the wine or whiskey barrel look without worrying about fading or rotting with the RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon Rain Barrel ($145).
The flat back design helps make the most of your outdoor space, and the UV-stabilized polyethylene material provides durability. If you’re planning to use more than one rain barrel, this one can easily be linked with others from the same manufacturer.
Best Faux Terra-Cotta Rain Barrel
With its terra-cotta color and urn shape, you won’t want to tuck the Gardener’s Supply Company 65-Gallon Rain Water Urn ($299) out of sight. You may even be tempted to show it off near your front porch.
The UV-stable material protects the barrel and its contents from the sun, and the removable top makes it easy to rinse the barrel as needed. It also comes with a five-foot hose. Gardener’s Supply Company guarantees its products so you can purchase with confidence. Want to add something to your yard to make rainy days more enjoyable? Learn how to hang a rain chain from your roof.
Best Wicker-Style Rain Barrel
The Impressions 50-Gallon Nantucket Rain Saver ($250) is a find for homeowners who appreciate the look of wicker but need something sturdy.
Dual spigots at different heights make it easy to transfer water to a bucket or via a hose. A mesh screen blocks debris, and the four-inch planter is the cherry (or mini garden!) on top. Just as the “Nantucket” name implies, it’s perfect for placement at seaside homes and summer cottages, too.
Best Sandstone-Style Rain Barrel
The Koolatron KoolScapes 55-Gallon Rain Barrel ($168) resembles stone in appearance and durability. UV-resistant and corrosion-proof with a large screen surface on top, this rain barrel is built to last and endure extreme temperatures, making it is well-suited for harsher climates.
With its clean lines, smooth appearance and natural color, the KoolScapes Rain Barrel will subtly add to — not distract from — your home design.
Best Palm Tree Trunk-Style Rain Barrel
The textured appearance and minimalistic shape of the Impressions Palm 50-Gallon Rain Barrel ($189) are subtle yet stylish, making this suitable in many locations.
The self-draining planter top is made of BPA-free 100-percent recycled materials, and the overflow management system ensures you won’t flood your foundation. It’s available in several colors so you can easily coordinate it with your existing aesthetic. If you prefer one with a slightly larger capacity, the same textured style is available in a 65-gallon size.
Best Planter-Style Rain Barrel
Rain barrels tend to be rounded, but the Impressions 50-Gallon Planter Rain Barrel ($189) offers a square shape with a slate rock look. That’s ideal for homeowners seeking a rain barrel that looks more like a planter.
Don’t let its good looks fool you. It can hold 50 gallons of water while accommodating your green thumb with plenty of space for flowers or a mini garden on top. It easily slides into corners, avoiding the frustration of trying to fit a round barrel into a square space.
Best Large-Capacity Rain Barrel
If your area receives ample rainfall and need a good-looking large-capacity rain barrel, the Algreen Dual Overflow 100-Gallon Rain Barrel ($457) is a strong option.
The corrosion-proof screen keeps out leaves and other debris, while the planting surface on top makes an effortless bird bath! Coordinating with your outdoor design is a breeze since this rain barrel comes in several colors, including terra-cotta, charcoal and sandstone.
Best Eco-Friendly Rain Barrel
Primarily made of recycled drum-grade, high-density polyethylene, the EarthMinded 45-Gallon Rain Station ($111) is a top choice for eco-minded homeowners.
It comes with a hose, spigot, a special flexi-fit diverter to prevent overflow. A reversible planter lid gives you the choice of keeping it simple or add a pop of color with some flowers. The clean lines are well-suited to minimalist and modern decor. The slightly smaller capacity can also work for smaller spaces, patios and balconies.
All prices and links were current as of publication.
Originally Published: July 21, 2022
