How to Make a Rain Barrel for Your Garden

Learn to build a simple rain barrel system to collect rainwater for your garden with your kids.

1. What You'll Need. Gather these materials: a large plastic barrel or drum (55-gallon food-grade containers work best), a spigot or valve with threads, a drill with bits, a fine mesh screen, a downspout diverter kit, waterproof sealant or rubber washers, and basic tools like a screwdriver. You can often find barrels at garden centers, hardware stores, or online. Make sure any barrel you use previously held food products, not chemicals.
2. Preparing Your Barrel. Start by cleaning your barrel thoroughly with soap and water, then rinse completely. Choose a spot near a downspout where the barrel will sit level and stable. You may want to place it on concrete blocks or a wooden platform to elevate it slightly for better water pressure. Make sure the location allows easy access to the spigot you'll install.
3. Installing the Spigot. Measure about 4-6 inches from the bottom of the barrel and drill a hole sized for your spigot threads. Thread the spigot through the hole from the outside and secure it with the included washer and nut on the inside. Apply waterproof sealant around the connection to prevent leaks. Test for leaks by adding a small amount of water and checking the connection.
4. Creating the Water Inlet. Cut a hole in the top of the barrel large enough for water to enter, typically 4-6 inches across. Cover this opening with fine mesh screen to keep out debris, mosquitoes, and leaves. Secure the screen with a bungee cord or clips that won't rust. If using a downspout diverter, follow the manufacturer's instructions to connect it to your existing gutter system.
5. Setting Up Overflow Protection. Drill a second hole near the top of the barrel for overflow during heavy rains. Attach a short piece of hose or PVC pipe to direct excess water away from your foundation. This prevents flooding around your barrel and protects your home. Position the overflow to water a flower bed or direct water to a safe drainage area.
6. Final Installation and Testing. Position your completed rain barrel under or near your downspout. If using a diverter system, connect it according to the instructions. Make sure the barrel sits securely and won't tip over when full. Wait for the next rainfall to test your system, or use a garden hose to simulate rain and check that water flows properly and all connections are watertight.