Comprehensive Guide to Buying the Perfect Plastic Barrel

Your Guide to buying the best Plastic barrel

Overview

Navigating the world of plastic barrels can be a daunting task given the wide range of types, sizes, and uses available on the market. This comprehensive buying guide aims to simplify that task. Whether you're looking for a plastic barrel for water storage, rain harvesting, or industrial use, understanding key features and considerations before purchasing can help you make an informed decision. This guide will walk you through all the essential factors to consider when buying a plastic barrel.

Key features

  • Material Quality: The plastic material used to construct the barrel must be durable, resistant to weather conditions, and safe for the intended use, whether it is for storage of food, water or other substances.
  • Size and Capacity: Plastic barrels come in various sizes and capacities. Choose a barrel that meets your specific storage needs. Larger barrels are suitable for storing bulk items while smaller ones are perfect for minimal storage.
  • Lid Type: Plastic barrels may come with different types of lids such as screw-top, hinged, or removable lids. Choose a lid type that ensures easy access and secure closure.
  • Handling Features: Some barrels come with handles or grips for easy carrying and maneuvering. If you plan to move your barrel frequently, consider these features.
  • Shape: Plastic barrels are available in various shapes like cylindrical, square, or rectangular. The shape doesn't usually affect the functionality but could be important for space optimization.
  • Color: The color of the barrel can have practical implications. For instance, a darker color may be preferable if the barrel is to be used outdoors, as it will absorb heat, keeping the contents warmer.
  • Price: Compare the prices of different barrels to ensure you are getting a fair deal. Remember that the price can reflect the quality, so cheaper isn't necessarily better.
  • Brand Reputation: Consider buying from a reputable brand that offers good customer service and warranty. Positive reviews from previous customers can also be a good indicator of quality.

See the most popular Plastic barrel on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Durability: Plastic barrels are known for their high durability. They are resistant to cracking, denting, and breaking, which makes them a long-lasting storage option.
  • Weather Resistance: Unlike metal barrels, plastic barrels do not rust or corrode when exposed to varying weather conditions. This makes them ideal for outdoor use.
  • Lightweight: Plastic barrels are typically lighter than their metal counterparts, making them easier to move and transport when needed.
  • Variety: Plastic barrels are available in various sizes and colors, allowing you to choose one that best suits your needs and preferences.
  • Cost Effective: Plastic barrels are typically cheaper than those made from other materials, providing a cost-effective storage solution.
  • Recyclable: Most plastic barrels are recyclable, making them an environmentally friendly option.
  • Easy Maintenance: Cleaning and maintaining plastic barrels is relatively easy compared to other materials like metal or wood.

Cons

  • Material Durability: Although plastic barrels are generally durable, they can become brittle and crack under extreme temperature changes or prolonged exposure to sunlight.
  • Non-Biodegradable: Most plastic barrels are not biodegradable and could contribute to environmental pollution if not properly recycled or disposed of.
  • Chemical Resistance: Some types of plastic barrels may not hold up well when storing certain chemicals, which could lead to leaks or contamination.
  • Size and Weight: Plastic barrels can be heavy and bulky, making them challenging to move or transport.
  • Odor Absorption: Plastic barrels can absorb and retain odors, which could be a problem if you're planning to store food or other sensitive items.
  • Cost: High-quality plastic barrels can be expensive, particularly those designed for specific uses such as chemical storage.

Best alternatives

  1. Metal Drums - These are a sturdy alternative to plastic barrels. They can handle more pressure and are more resistant to punctures, making them suitable for storing heavier, bulkier items or hazardous materials.
  2. Fiber Drums - An eco-friendly option, fiber drums are made from recycled materials. They're lighter than metal drums but sturdier than cardboard, perfect for lightweight storage needs.
  3. Cardboard Drums - For a cost-effective solution, cardboard drums are ideal. They are lightweight and ideal for storing lighter items. However, they may not be as durable as a plastic or metal drum.
  4. Glass Carboys - Glass carboys are typically smaller than barrels but they are good for storing liquids, especially for brewing or fermentation processes.
  5. Wooden Barrels - Traditional and rustic, wooden barrels are perfect for storing certain kinds of beverages like wine or whiskey. They can also add aesthetic appeal for decoration or display purposes.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Barrel Pump: This is an essential tool for extracting liquid from your plastic barrel. It's a simple hand pump that can fit most standard-sized barrels.
  • Drum Wrench: This tool assists in opening and closing the bungs or plugs of the barrel. It is an important accessory for handling plastic barrels.
  • Dolly: It's a wheeled platform used for transporting heavy barrels from one place to another. It helps in making movement of the barrels easier and safer.
  • Spigot: This is a tap that is often used with barrels to control the flow of liquid. They can be easily attached to your plastic barrel.
  • Rain Barrel Diverter: It's a device that redirects water from your gutter downspout into your barrel. Particularly useful if you are using the plastic barrel for rainwater collection.
  • Barrel Cover: A protective cover can preserve the plastic barrel's contents from external elements and contamination. It adds a layer of protection to your barrel.

Common questions

  1. What is a plastic barrel used for?
    A plastic barrel can be used for a variety of purposes, including storage and transportation of liquids such as water, oil, and chemicals. They can also be used for rainwater collection, composting, and as floatation devices in docks or rafts.
  2. What type of plastic is used in plastic barrels?
    Most plastic barrels are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a type of plastic known for its strength, durability, and chemical resistance.
  3. What sizes do plastic barrels come in?
    Plastic barrels come in a range of sizes, most commonly between 15 and 55 gallons. The size you choose will depend on your specific needs and the available space for storage.
  4. Are plastic barrels safe for storing food or drinking water?
    As long as the plastic barrel is made from food-grade plastic and has not been previously used to store harmful substances, it can be safely used to store food or drinking water. Food-grade plastic barrels are often marked with a recycling symbol containing the number 2 inside.
  5. Can plastic barrels be left outside?
    Yes, plastic barrels made from HDPE are generally weather-resistant and can be left outside. However, they should be properly sealed to prevent contamination and kept out of direct sunlight to prevent degradation of the plastic over time.
  6. How should I clean a plastic barrel?
    To clean a plastic barrel, you should first empty out its contents. Then, using a mixture of warm water and mild detergent, scrub the inside of the barrel. Rinse thoroughly to make sure no detergent residue is left inside. Allow the barrel to air dry before using it again.
  7. What is the average price of a plastic barrel?
    The price of a plastic barrel can vary significantly depending on the size and specific features, but generally, you can expect to pay between $20 and $100 per barrel.

Trivia

Plastic barrels are actually a popular item among DIY enthusiasts! These barrels are often repurposed into rain harvesting systems, compost bins, and even quirky outdoor furniture. One notable repurposing was when a creative homeowner transformed a plastic barrel into an enchanting fairy garden for their backyard. The barrel was painted and decorated, filled with soil and plants, and even featured tiny fairy house structures and figurines. This inventive use of a plastic barrel certainly brings a whole new meaning to 'barrel of fun'. [Source](https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/spaces/planting-a-fairy-garden-in-a-barrel.htm)

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.