Decorative Rain Barrels: 14 ways to harvest water with style

Say goodbye to wasting money down the drain and hello to a chic and eco-friendly garden. These 14 stunning decorative rain barrels will help you conserve water and cut costs!

Are you looking for a way to save on your utility bills? Not only are rain barrels Eco-friendly and sustainable, but they also offer a cost-effective way to preserve water and promote self-sufficiency in your garden. Today, we'll explore creative and resourceful ways to beautify your garden while conserving water with decorative rain barrels. These rain barrel ideas will add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space and help you play a crucial role in protecting the environment. So if you're looking for a way to save money while making a positive impact on your garden and the environment, this post is for you!

★Tip★ If you're looking for Fall decorating ideas, check out the Fall entryway table decorating ideas in this post!

Table of contents

What is a rain barrel?

A rain barrel is a simple and effective water conservation tool that collects and stores rainwater from rooftops through downspouts or gutters. It is typically a large container made of durable materials, such as plastic or wood, with essential components like a screen or filter to prevent debris from entering and a spigot for easy water access.

By harnessing the natural process of rainwater runoff, rain barrels provide an Eco-friendly solution to reduce reliance on municipal water sources for outdoor tasks like watering plants, washing garden tools, and more. This sustainable practice not only saves water and lowers utility bills but also helps to protect the environment by minimizing the strain on local water supplies. Another plus is that natural rainwater is much better for your garden and plants than chlorinated tap water.

Snag decorative rain barrels in the summer sales

As summer starts winding down, you will find some super deals on rain barrels, and guess what? It's the perfect time to plan ahead for next year. If you score a fantastic bargain now, come spring, you'll be ready to start rainwater harvesting as soon as those spring showers arrive.

Decorative Rain Barrels: A Blend of Function and Aesthetics

We've been updating our garden this year, although things haven't progressed as fast as we would have liked. The downside of having an operation on my foot meant another summer of not working in the garden for me. On the plus side, I have been able to do lots of product research and online ordering!

I've started looking for decorative rain barrels that offer increased water storage capacity and add aesthetic appeal to our garden and outdoor spaces. I want rain barrels that blend seamlessly with our landscaping and become beautiful focal points, rather than just functional water storage units. As I started researching decorative rain barrels, I was pleasantly surprised by the array of stylish designs and options available for large and small gardens. Today, I'm sharing my favorite garden water barrel finds with you.

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Decorative rain barrel ideas

Rain barrels, 50-gallon

Introducing the 50-gallon rain barrel with an authentic oak barrel texture, built to withstand the test of time without fading, rotting, or attracting insects. Its sleek design allows it to fit snugly against any wall, and the durable spigot with hose hook-up ensures easy access to collected rainwater. With a protective screen to keep debris and insects at bay, this Eco-friendly rain barrel earns extra kudos for being made from 100% recycled plastic.

50 Gallon rain barrel with an authentic oak barrel texture and flat back. — Source

You can find oak-look rain barrels here.

If you need to raise the water spigot further off the ground, there is also a compatible rain barrel stand available for this product, which you can find here: Rain barrel stand for the above product.
Rain barrel stand.

Wicker-style rain barrel

This striking 50-gallon wicker-style rain barrel will be a sturdy and captivating addition to your garden! Its wide top opening accommodates 2x3 or 3x4 downspouts, shielded by a rust-proof resin screen to keep unwanted debris and insects at bay. It has two overflows, so you can effortlessly link multiple barrels or seamlessly install it with a diverter kit. If you already have wicker or wicker-style garden furniture, this rain barrel becomes the perfect complement, adding elegance and practicality to your outdoor space.

You can find wicker-style rain barrels here:

Wicker-style 50 Gallon rain barrel.

Decorative rain barrels with a diverter system

Decorative planter rain barrel in black — Source

This 50-gallon rain barrel has a diverter system and is designed to collect rainwater with flair. Thanks to the FlexiFit diverter, say goodbye to overflows and flooding, ensuring efficient water harvesting. On top of the barrel, a built-in planter awaits, ready to nurture your favorite annuals or fragrant herbs.

But that's not all - this water barrel earns extra applause for its environmentally-conscious construction from recycled high-density polyethylene. For those who seek even greater water storage, the ability to attach multiple barrels via a linking kit makes it an unbeatable choice. Are you worried about mosquitoes, insects, or algae growth? Fear not! Its closed system keeps them all at bay, ensuring clean and fresh rainwater at your fingertips.

Find this rain barrel with a diverter kit here.

Decorative rain barrels with stand

Stone-look 50 Gallon Rain Saver with Stand

Tall, slim. decorative rain barrel with stand. — Source

This stone-look 50-gallon Rain Saver with Stand has an artisanal clay design and is one of the most eye-catching rain barrels on the market. It includes a matching stand to raise your barrel and is available in three colors.

You can find the rain saver with stand here.

Decorative planter rain barrels

Ceramic-look rain barrels

Ampor-style rain barrel with planter in a charcoal color. — Source

The timeless allure of this exquisitely crafted rain barrel offers the elegance of ceramic while boasting the convenience and durability of modern plastic. With an array of colors to choose from, you can easily match it to your house or existing outdoor furniture. The water spigot and corrosion-proof screen guard ensure easy access to your stored rainwater while keeping unwanted debris at bay.

You can find ceramic-look rain barrels here:

Bark-style water barrel

A decorative rain barrel with a wood-like texture. — Source

The beauty of this 50-gallon rain barrel is that it replicates the rough texture of a majestic tree trunk. Available in various colors, the deep-welled top offers space to create a delightful flower display or cultivate a small herb or vegetable garden. The large opening is designed for convenience, accommodates 2x3 or 3x4 downspouts, and comes with a soft, fine mesh plastic screen, effectively safeguarding your water supply from heavy debris.

Moreover, you'll find two sturdy brass spigots included, ready to be installed. It's the perfect blend of nature-inspired aesthetics and practicality.

You can find the bark-style water barrel here:

50-gallon rain barrel Terra-cotta bark-style with planter

Nantucket rain barrel

A striking 50-gallon wicker-style rain barrel with planter — Source

Another fabulous find is the 50-gallon wicker-style rain barrel, which ticks all the boxes for a perfect garden addition. With an integrated overflow channel, this barrel ensures your worries about flooding are a thing of the past. And that's not all, the deep-welled top provides a delightful space to showcase your gardening prowess, whether creating a bed of beautiful summer blooms or nurturing your favorite fragrant herbs.

As with most of the other water barrels I've mentioned so far, the large opening of this barrel comes with a fine, mesh plastic cover, cleverly designed to keep debris at bay and insects out of your water supply. Not to mention the dual spigot feature that adds convenience to your watering routine. Use one water spigot with a 5-gallon bucket or hose while utilizing the other for overflow into another barrel. It's a great way to maximize water collection and make your garden more sustainable.

Find the wicker-style rain barrel here:

Nantucket rain barrel

Tall, slim rain barrel

A tall slim decorative rain barrel in terra-cotta. — Source

This tall, slim rain barrel manufactured from robust roto-molded plastic will be strong against chipping, cracking, or fading, even in extreme temperatures. Choose a barrel color that resonates with your style, while the conveniently integrated crown planter provides space for pretty summer flowers. This comprehensive package includes a protective screen guard, a threaded shutoff valve, dual overflow outlets, a threaded drain at the bottom with a cap, and a high-quality brass spigot.

Find this tall, slim rain barrel here.

50-gallon whiskey-style Rain Barrel

50-gallon whiskey barrel style rain barrel. — Source

This Whiskey Rain Barrel merges premium construction with visual appeal. It has a charming whiskey barrel design and an extra-large planter with weep holes, preventing overwatering. The rain barrel boasts ample storage and an integrated diverter system, connecting effortlessly to a soaker hose for automatic plant watering. Overflow worries are a thing of the past as the diverter system channels excess water through your downspout. Aesthetically pleasing, the rain diverter kit accommodates 2-inch by 3-inch or 3-inch by 4-inch downspouts and includes essential components for a hassle-free setup.

You can find the whiskey-style rain barrel here.

Elevated rain saver with two spigots

A rain barrel in a colonial planter design. — **Source**

The exterior of this rain barrel has the appearance of a colonial planter. The flat-back design optimizes space and allows you to position the barrel close to walls or flat areas. The channel built into the rim diverts overflowing water to the front and away from the back of the barrel and your home's foundation.

Find the colonial-style decorative rain barrel here.

Flat-back decorative rain barrel

Charming rain barrel in a whiskey barrel design. — **Source**

This rustic-style rain barrel has a beautiful faux oak texture. The rain barrel holds 50 gallons and is equipped with a fine mesh screen to keep debris out and a front-facing overflow. Plus, you can connect it to other barrels, and its sturdy BPA-free plastic can withstand impacts and weather. The great thing is that this water barrel has a flat-back design for wall placement and is available in four different colors.

Find the faux oak rain barrel here.

Decorative rain barrel, 55 gallons

Speckled sandstone-look rainwater barrel

55-gallon speckled sandstone-look rain barrel with child-proof safety grid. — Source

This speckled sandstone-look rainwater barrel is crafted from durable and corrosion-resistant recycled plastic, ensuring it remains a steadfast companion for years to come. And the possibilities are endless because it has three water outflows to cater to your needs. You can link multiple rain barrels together, effortlessly fill watering cans from the brass water spigot, or connect a soaker hose to the lower drain for efficient watering.

Not just practical, this elegant water barrel also puts your mind at ease with a child-proof safety grid, ensuring safety for little explorers around the garden. Sustainability, style, and safety converge in this versatile rainwater solution that promises functionality and beauty for your outdoor haven.

Find the speckled sandstone-look rainwater barrel here.

100-gallon decorative rain barrels

Charcoal, stone-look rain barrel

100-gallon rain barrel with decorative planter and brass spigot. — **Source**

This 100-gallon barrel, made from robust roto-molded plastic, endures extreme temperatures, remaining chip, fade, and crack-free over time. BPA-free and recyclable, it ensures both health and sustainability. It also doubles as a stunning decorative planter, featuring a Charcoal stone-look pot with an authentic rock-like texture. The built-in brass spigot guarantees easy water access, while the corrosion-proof screen guard keeps debris at bay. With two overflow ports, you can connect other Algreen barrels, creating a comprehensive rain collection system that's as attractive as it is impactful, a testament that saving the planet can indeed be beautiful.

Find the charcoal stone-look rain barrel here.

Artisan-style rain barrel

100-gallon rain barrel with an artisan clay pot-inspired design — **Source**

This 100-gallon rain barrel has a charming artisan clay pot-inspired design. The deep-welled top invites versatile planting, from vivid flowers to petite herbs or veggies. Boasting an integrated overflow channel, this rain saver directs excess water to the front, safeguarding your foundation. The generously sized opening, compatible with 2x3 or 3x4 downspouts, remains debris-free thanks to the fine mesh plastic screen. With two robust brass spigots included, ready for offset spigot installation.

Find the artisan-style, decorative rain barrel here.

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Decorative rain barrel stands

Rain Barrel Stand for urn-style rain barrels

sturdy rain barrel stand in granite. — **Source**

Compatible with both the 50 and 65-gallon Rain Wizard Urns. Choose the color that matches your current rain barrel to maintain the same sleek, traditional look.

Find the urn-style rain barrel stand here.

Universal rain barrel stand

Collecting water from your rain barrel will be easier with this stand. The core holds over 1,000 pounds of weight. That's much more than your barrel can collect.

Find the universal rain barrel stand here.

Decorative rain barrel kits

Black rain barrel connector kit

A rain barrel connector kit in black. — **Source**

Add unlimited barrels or tanks, using a Connector Kit for each connection.

This kit allows you to connect two rain barrels to increase water storage capacity so you can complete even more outdoor chores with your collected rainwater.

Find the black rain barrel connector kit here.

White rain barrel connector kit

A rain barrel connector kit to connect to connect two or more water barrels. — **Source**

Use this connector kit with any size of rain barrel/water tank. According to the manufacturer, the white color helps prevent organic growth.

Find the white rain barrel connector kit here.

Rain barrel water spigot connector kit

Kit to add a water spigot to a rain barrel in minutes. — **Source**

This kit includes all the parts needed to add a water spigot to a rain barrel in minutes. The provided compression seal installs from outside the barrel, making it easy to use on sealed or tight-head drums.

Find the rain barrel spigot kit here.

Final thoughts on decorative rain barrels

Rain barrels don't have to be ugly eyesores to be hidden away in a corner of the garden, never to be seen. If you're in the market for a decorative rain barrel that marries functionality with style, these are pretty great options for any garden lover. Elevate your garden with eye-catching pieces, transforming your outdoor space into a lush, green paradise. Not only will you make a statement, but you'll also contribute to the environment – a win-win scenario!

Rain barrels offer a practical and Eco-friendly way to make a positive impact on your wallet and the environment.

Are you making improvements in your garden this year? I'd love to hear all about it in the comments below.

FAQ

How do you make a rain barrel attractive?

Choose Aesthetic Designs: Look for rain barrels that come in various colors, patterns, and textures. Opt for barrels matching your garden's theme or your home's exterior to create a cohesive look.
Integrated Planters: Choose a rain barrel with a built-in planter on top. Add colorful flowers, herbs, or trailing vines to create a lush garden feature on your rain barrel.
Stands or Bases: Elevate your rain barrel using barrel stands or bases that match its design. Barrel stands enhance the appearance of rain barrels, providing convenient access to the water spigot.
Camouflage with Foliage: Strategically place potted plants, bushes, or vines around the rain barrel to blend it into the surroundings and make it feel like a natural part of your garden.

Should rain barrels be in the sun or the shade?

Rain barrels should ideally stand in a shaded area. A shady location helps to minimize water evaporation, keeping the collected rainwater cool and reducing the risk of algae growth. Rain barrels standing in direct sunlight, can heat up quickly, potentially making the water less suitable for some uses in the garden.

Additionally, by placing your rain barrel in a shaded spot, you will help protect it from the potential deterioration caused by prolonged sun exposure, extending its lifespan.

If finding a completely shaded spot is challenging, consider partially shading the rain barrel using structures like pergolas, awnings, or tall plants. However, ensure that the area you choose still allows easy access for maintenance, such as cleaning the barrel or attaching a hose to the spigot for watering.

Are rain barrels worth it?

Yes, rain barrels can be very worthwhile for several reasons:
Water Conservation: Rain barrels allow you to collect and store rainwater, which you can use for various outdoor purposes like watering plants, garden maintenance, and even washing outdoor equipment. This can help reduce your reliance on municipal water supplies for such tasks, saving you water and money.
Environmental Impact: When you use rainwater instead of tap water for outdoor activities, you're helping to conserve the local water supply and reduce the strain on water treatment facilities. This contributes to overall water conservation efforts and helps protect natural water sources.
Cost Savings: Utilizing rainwater for outdoor tasks can help reduce your water bills, especially during the dry months when outdoor water consumption tends to increase.
Plants' Preference: Rainwater is naturally soft and free of chemicals like chlorine or fluoride, making it a preferred choice for many plants. It's also at a temperature that plants find comfortable, which can contribute to healthier growth.
Reduction in Runoff: Rain barrels help reduce stormwater runoff by capturing rainwater that would otherwise flow into storm drains. This can minimize erosion, flooding, and pollution in local water bodies.
Ease of Use: Rain barrels are relatively easy to install and maintain. Most come with simple instructions and require minimal tools for setup. Regular maintenance involves cleaning the barrel and ensuring the screen or filter is debris free.
DIY Potential: Some rain barrels can be built as DIY projects, allowing you to customize the design and size according to your needs and preferences.
Education and Awareness: Using a rain barrel can increase your awareness of water usage and conservation, encouraging more mindful habits

However, you should consider factors like the climate in your area (rainfall frequency), local regulations, the cost of the rain barrel, and your specific water needs. If you live in a district with infrequent rainfall or strict community regulations, the benefits of using a rain barrel might be less pronounced. Nevertheless, in most cases, rain barrels offer a practical and Eco-friendly way to create a positive impact on both your wallet and the environment.

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Decorative Rain Barrels: 14 ways to harvest water with style

What is a rain barrel?

Snag decorative rain barrels in the summer sales

Decorative Rain Barrels: A Blend of Function and Aesthetics