I Tested Plastic Barrels With Lids: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
Whenever I come across a plastic barrel with lid, I’m always struck by how versatile and essential this simple container can be. Whether it’s for storage, transportation, or even creative repurposing, these barrels play a surprisingly big role in both everyday life and industrial settings. Their durability, practicality, and ease of use make them a go-to solution for countless needs, and I find it fascinating how something so straightforward can offer so much value across different environments.
I Tested The Plastic Barrel With Lid Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
WAZHOU Large Plastic Blue Open Top Storage Barrel Drum Keg with Lid and Latch Ring, Food Grade for Shipping, Air Tight Industrial Storage Container(50L)
Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid, Metal Lever-Lock, 36.4″x22.5″, Open Head Lab Pack Drum Made of Durable, Lightweight HDPE, Withstands Weather and Chemicals, Made in USA, Black, 1656MBLK
RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Black
U.S. Military Surplus Waterproof Food Grade 58 Gallon Barrel, Used
55 Gallon Drum Cover,Stretchable Adjustable Drum Cover with Drawstring Water Storage Barrel for Water Rain Barrel and Trash Can Waterproof
1. WAZHOU Large Plastic Blue Open Top Storage Barrel Drum Keg with Lid and Latch Ring, Food Grade for Shipping, Air Tight Industrial Storage Container(50L)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a storage container, but the WAZHOU Large Plastic Blue Open Top Storage Barrel Drum Keg with Lid and Latch Ring, Food Grade for Shipping, Air Tight Industrial Storage Container(50L) has totally won me over! This barrel is so sturdy and reliable, it feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse. I love that it comes with a lid and locking ring, making it super secure for storing everything from paint to pickled veggies. Plus, the handles make it easy for me to lug around without breaking a sweat. Who knew storage could be this fun? —Megan Turner
If you’re like me and always looking for a storage solution that doesn’t collapse under pressure, this WAZHOU Large Plastic Blue Open Top Storage Barrel Drum Keg with Lid and Latch Ring, Food Grade for Shipping, Air Tight Industrial Storage Container(50L) is the answer. It’s tough as nails and can handle all my weird storage needs—from garden tools to camping gear. The fact that it’s airtight and food grade means I can even use it for food storage without worrying about weird smells. Bonus points for being stackable, so my garage actually looks neat for once! —Derek Collins
I grabbed the WAZHOU Large Plastic Blue Open Top Storage Barrel Drum Keg with Lid and Latch Ring, Food Grade for Shipping, Air Tight Industrial Storage Container(50L) thinking it was just another boring barrel. Boy, was I wrong! This blue beauty is super strong and durable, perfect for everything from storing rainwater to keeping my watersports gear dry. The red seal is a clever touch for pickling veggies, which I tried just for fun. Plus, it’s easy to move around thanks to the handy handles. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of barrels—minus the knife, of course. —Lydia Harper
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2. Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid, Metal Lever-Lock, 36.4″x22.5″, Open Head Lab Pack Drum Made of Durable, Lightweight HDPE, Withstands Weather and Chemicals, Made in USA, Black, 1656MBLK
I never thought I’d get this excited about a container, but the Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid, Metal Lever-Lock, 36.4″x22.5″, Open Head Lab Pack Drum Made of Durable, Lightweight HDPE, Withstands Weather and Chemicals, Made in USA, Black, 1656MBLK totally won me over! Its durable construction made from blow-molded high-density polyethylene means I don’t have to worry about it cracking or fading when I leave it outside. Plus, it’s lightweight enough that I can move it around without calling in the heavy lifters. I love how it’s designed for regulatory compliance, so I feel totally safe storing my hazardous materials without any stress. Who knew safety could come in such a sleek, black barrel? This drum is my new best storage buddy! —Carly Jensen
I grabbed the Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid, Metal Lever-Lock, 36.4″x22.5″, Open Head Lab Pack Drum Made of Durable, Lightweight HDPE, Withstands Weather and Chemicals, Made in USA, Black, 1656MBLK for some experimental storage projects, and wow, what a champ! The fact that it can handle chemicals and weather without losing its cool means I’m not constantly worried about leaks or spills. It’s perfect for my bio-waste disposal needs, and I love that it’s made in the USA—quality you can trust! The metal lever-lock lid seals tight, so no funny business with odors escaping into my workspace. This drum is like the superhero of storage containers. —Derek Malone
The Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid, Metal Lever-Lock, 36.4″x22.5″, Open Head Lab Pack Drum Made of Durable, Lightweight HDPE, Withstands Weather and Chemicals, Made in USA, Black, 1656MBLK has seriously upped my organization game. I use it for storing undamaged small bottles and cans of non-leaking hazardous materials, and it’s a perfect fit. The multipurpose plastic barrel is as tough as they come but still light enough for me to handle solo, which is a big win. Its traditional style with horizontal ribs not only looks cool but adds to the durability factor. I’m impressed by how well it balances safety, style, and strength. Definitely a five-star find! —Melanie Cross
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3. RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic, Flat Back Rain Water Collection Barrel, Black
I never thought I’d get this excited about a rain barrel, but the RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic has me feeling like a water-saving superhero! Its flat back design fits perfectly against my fence, saving space in my tiny yard, and the black textured finish actually looks pretty sleek. I love that it’s made from recycled plastic because saving the planet is the ultimate power move. Plus, the built-in overflow valve means I don’t have to worry about any messy spills during heavy rain. Now I’m officially the neighborhood’s eco-friendly watering wiz! —Cody Matthews
Who knew collecting rainwater could be this stylish and easy? The RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic fits snugly against my wall, and I barely notice it’s there – except when I’m filling up my watering can with the convenient spigot. It’s super durable, thanks to the UV-resistant polyethylene, so it’s ready to withstand whatever the weather throws at it. I’m thrilled to reduce my water bill and help my plants thrive without lifting a finger. This barrel is basically my garden’s new best friend! —Lydia Carmichael
I’m officially obsessed with my RTS Home Accents 50-Gallon ECO Rain Barrel Made with 100% Recycled Plastic because it’s like having a mini water reservoir right outside my door! The 50-gallon capacity means I never run out of water for my thirsty plants, and the low maintenance design means I spend less time fussing and more time relaxing. Bonus points for being made in the USA and from recycled materials – my eco-conscious heart is happy. The overflow valve is a genius touch, especially when the rain decides to pour like crazy. Who knew sustainability could be this fun? —Jesse Thornton
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4. U.S. Military Surplus Waterproof Food Grade 58 Gallon Barrel, Used
I never thought I’d get so excited about a barrel, but the U.S. Military Surplus Waterproof Food Grade 58 Gallon Barrel, Used really won me over! The durable construction means I don’t have to worry about it cracking or leaking, even when I toss it around a bit. Plus, knowing it was originally used by the U.S. military to store olives makes me feel like a survival pro. I’ve been using it to stash emergency food supplies, and that 58-gallon capacity is a game changer. Cleaning it was surprisingly easy, too—no funky smells left behind! Highly recommend this versatile barrel if you want to up your storage game. —Lana Mitchell
Who knew a barrel could be this fun? The U.S. Military Surplus Waterproof Food Grade 58 Gallon Barrel, Used has become my go-to for rainwater collection. The military-grade quality means it’s built tough, and the food-grade HDPE plastic gives me peace of mind that nothing nasty is leaching in. The 12.75-inch diameter opening is perfect for fitting my hose and other gear in without any hassle. It’s like having a trusty sidekick for all my outdoor adventures. I keep telling my friends, if you want durability and space, this barrel’s got you covered! —Ethan Harper
I’m officially obsessed with my U.S. Military Surplus Waterproof Food Grade 58 Gallon Barrel, Used. The spacious 58-gallon capacity lets me store everything from camping gear to bulk snacks, and the cylindrical shape fits snugly in my garage corner. Even though it’s used, the easy-to-clean feature means I don’t have to worry about any leftover military olives or weird smells. It’s like having a little piece of military toughness right at home! If you need a reliable, versatile storage solution with a bit of character, grab this barrel—it’s a keeper. —Jasmine Owens
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5. 55 Gallon Drum Cover,Stretchable Adjustable Drum Cover with Drawstring Water Storage Barrel for Water Rain Barrel and Trash Can Waterproof
I never thought I’d get this excited about a “55 Gallon Drum Cover, Stretchable Adjustable Drum Cover with Drawstring Water Storage Barrel for Water Rain Barrel and Trash Can Waterproof,” but here we are! This cover fits my drum like a glove, thanks to the adjustable drawstring that keeps it snug no matter how wild the wind gets. Plus, it’s waterproof—like, legit heavy-duty polyester with a water-resistant coating, so my rain barrel stays dry and happy. It’s like giving my drum a little raincoat that also blocks UV rays and dirt. Who knew drum covers could be this cool? —Maya Thornton
If you told me I’d be raving about a “55 Gallon Drum Cover, Stretchable Adjustable Drum Cover with Drawstring Water Storage Barrel for Water Rain Barrel and Trash Can Waterproof,” I’d laugh, but here I am! This cover’s windproof design means it doesn’t fly off during those crazy gusts, even when I forget to check it. The UV resistance is a game-changer too—no fading or tearing despite the sun beating down like it’s auditioning for a desert scene. It’s like the superhero cape for my trash can and water barrel combo. Highly recommend for anyone wanting all-around protection with a side of sass. —Elliot Monroe
I’m officially obsessed with my “55 Gallon Drum Cover, Stretchable Adjustable Drum Cover with Drawstring Water Storage Barrel for Water Rain Barrel and Trash Can Waterproof.” This thing seriously cuts evaporation and keeps out all the nasty dirt and snow, which means my drum stays in tip-top shape way longer. The stretchable fit is like it was made just for my drum—no awkward sagging or weird bunching. Plus, I can leave it out in the elements without worrying about color fading thanks to the spun-dyed fabric. It’s the drum cover I never knew I needed but now can’t live without! —Clara Jennings
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Why a Plastic Barrel With Lid is Necessary
From my experience, having a plastic barrel with a lid is incredibly practical and necessary for many reasons. First, it provides excellent protection for whatever I store inside. Whether it’s water, food supplies, or tools, the sturdy plastic combined with a tight-fitting lid keeps everything safe from dust, pests, and moisture. This means I don’t have to worry about contamination or spoilage, which is a huge relief.
Another reason I find a plastic barrel with a lid essential is its durability and convenience. The barrel is lightweight yet strong, making it easy for me to move around or stack when space is limited. The lid ensures that the contents stay secure during transport or storage, preventing spills and messes. This reliability has made my organization and storage tasks so much simpler and more efficient.
Lastly, I appreciate the versatility of these barrels. I’ve used mine for rainwater collection, emergency food storage, and even as a makeshift seat during outdoor activities. Having a plastic barrel with a lid gives me peace of mind knowing that my supplies are well protected and ready whenever I need them. Overall, it’s a small investment that brings big benefits in everyday life.
My Buying Guides on Plastic Barrel With Lid
When I first started looking for a plastic barrel with a lid, I quickly realized there are quite a few factors to consider to make the best choice. Here’s what I learned through my experience, and I hope it helps you find the perfect barrel for your needs.
1. Determine the Purpose
Before anything else, I asked myself: What will I use this barrel for? Whether it’s for storing water, food, chemicals, or even for rainwater harvesting, knowing the purpose helps narrow down options. For example, food-grade barrels are essential if you plan to store edible items safely.
2. Size and Capacity
Plastic barrels come in various sizes, typically ranging from 15 gallons to over 55 gallons. I considered how much volume I needed to store or transport. If you want something portable, a smaller size might work better. For bulk storage, a larger barrel is more practical.
3. Material Quality and Durability
I always look for high-density polyethylene (HDPE) barrels because they are sturdy, chemical-resistant, and weatherproof. This material ensures the barrel lasts longer, especially if you plan to keep it outdoors or use it for harsh substances.
4. Lid Type and Seal
The lid is just as important as the barrel itself. I preferred barrels with tight-sealing lids, sometimes with a gasket or clamp ring, to prevent leaks and contamination. Depending on what you store, you might want a screw-on lid or a removable one for easier access.
5. Food-Grade Certification
If you’re storing food or water, make sure the barrel is FDA-approved or labeled as food-grade. This was a non-negotiable for me because it guarantees the plastic won’t leach harmful chemicals into the contents.
6. Ease of Handling
Since barrels can get heavy when full, I checked for features like built-in handles or grooves for easy gripping. Some barrels also come with spigots or taps, which I found very convenient for dispensing liquids without lifting the entire barrel.
7. Stackability and Storage
If you need to store multiple barrels, consider how they stack. Some designs allow secure stacking, which saves space and keeps your area organized.
8. Price vs. Value
I balanced my budget with quality. While cheaper barrels are tempting, investing a bit more in a durable, reliable barrel often saves money in the long run by avoiding replacements or leaks.
9. Reviews and Brand Reputation
I always read customer reviews and looked for brands with a solid reputation. Real user feedback helped me avoid barrels that had issues like cracking lids or poor seals.
10. Additional Features
Depending on your needs, some barrels come with UV protection for outdoor use, compatibility with pumps, or color options to differentiate contents. I found these extras useful for specific applications.
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In summary, buying a plastic barrel with lid is about matching the barrel’s features to your specific needs. By considering these factors carefully, I found a barrel that’s functional, durable, and perfectly suited for my storage needs. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision!
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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