In the face of increasing water scarcity and unpredictable weather due to climate change, collecting rainwater in the UK is more vital than ever. As an expert with years of experience in sustainable water solutions, I’ve thoroughly tested various water butts to help you choose the best for your garden. This article will guide you through essential factors like material, size, and installation, ensuring you select a water butt that not only conserves water but also enhances your garden’s functionality and aesthetics.
Our Picks
We have gathered our top picks for the best water butts available in the UK, helping you conserve water and maintain your garden efficiently.
Charles Bentley 100L Slimline Garden Water Butt Set
A reliable and space-saving choice for gardeners to store and utilize rainwater efficiently.
Pros
- Slim design saves space
- Easy to install with stand and filler kit included
- 100-litre capacity suitable for most gardens
Cons
- Construction may not be the sturdiest
- Stand may be tricky to level on uneven ground
- Light enough to blow over when empty
We recently set up the Charles Bentley 100L Slimline Garden Water Butt in our garden, and the slim design was a great space-saver. The installation was relatively simple, as the tap, stand, and filler kit were all included. With a 100-litre capacity, this water butt is perfect for small to medium-sized gardens, like ours.
The overall quality of the water butt is satisfactory; however, it lacks sturdiness in some areas. While setting up, we found it a bit challenging to level the stand on uneven ground. To prevent accidents, we’d recommend securing it well and ensuring a stable base for it to rest on, especially when empty.
On the topic of it being empty, we did notice that it is light enough to be blown over when empty. Therefore, we suggest securing it or keeping it in a sheltered area if strong winds are expected. We must reiterate that we have found this product very useful for efficiently storing rainwater for our gardening needs.
In conclusion, the Charles Bentley 100L Slimline Garden Water Butt Set is a good option if you have limited space or require a lower water storage capacity. With easy installation and reasonable functionality, it gets the job done. Just take a bit of extra care with stability on uneven ground and during adverse weather conditions.
Hozelock Waterbutt Treatment
The Hozelock Waterbutt Treatment is a must-have product for those wanting to maintain clean and odour-free stored water.
Pros
- Effective water treatment
- Non-toxic formula
- Prevents odours and slime
Cons
- Weekly application required
- A bit pricey
- Pre-opened seal issue in some cases
We recently tried the Hozelock Waterbutt Treatment to treat the water stored in our garden’s water butt. The treatment impressed us with its effectiveness in maintaining water quality; it prevented unpleasant odours and kept the water free from slime and algae.
The non-toxic formula is another great advantage of this water butt treatment, as it is safe for use in gardens and doesn’t pose any risks to the environment or wildlife. This gives us peace of mind when using stored water for our plants.
One minor inconvenience we experienced was the need for weekly application, especially during the rainy season when our watering needs were more frequent. Despite its efficiency, the product is on the pricier side. Additionally, some users have mentioned that the bottle they received had an already open seal, although we did not encounter this issue ourselves.
In conclusion, the Hozelock Waterbutt Treatment is an effective solution for those who want to keep their stored water clean and free from unpleasant odours and slime. Although it requires a weekly application and might be a bit expensive, we believe the benefits outweigh the cons, particularly for avid gardeners who rely on their water butts throughout the year.
STORM TRADING GROUP 210L Water Butt
A high-capacity water butt that helps conserve water and reduce bills while providing various benefits for your garden.
Pros
- Large 210-litre capacity
- Comes with a stand, filler kit, and tap
- Lockable lid for security
Cons
- Non-standard tap size
- Base sections may not clip together securely
- Lid locking mechanism could be improved
We recently got our hands on the STORM TRADING GROUP 210 Litre Water Butt and found it to be a fantastic addition to our garden. With a generous 210-litre capacity, this water butt is ideal for collecting and storing rainwater. Using the collected water for garden maintenance and other outdoor tasks helps reduce water wastage and lower water bills.
The water butt comes complete with a stand, filler kit, and tap, making it easy for us to set up and start using right away. The lockable lid is a nice touch, providing some added security to prevent tampering. However, the locking mechanism could be improved for better reliability.
One thing to note is that the tap size is not a standard quick-fit 3/4 inch, so you may need to replace it if you prefer a different size. Additionally, the three sections of the base, while functional, do not clip together very firmly, which may be an issue for some users.
Overall, we found the STORM TRADING GROUP 210 Litre Water Butt to be a valuable investment for any gardener. It offers a sizeable capacity, easy setup, and the opportunity to save on water bills, making it worth considering if you are looking for an efficient way to collect and store rainwater.
Ward GN325 210L Water Butt
We believe the Ward GN325 210L Water Butt is a great choice for efficiently collecting rainwater in your garden.
Pros
- Generous 210-litre capacity
- Lockable lid for safety
- Easy to use tap included
Cons
- Base not included
- Loose tap threads
- Lid may have a weaker fit
Setting up the Ward GN325 Water Butt in our garden was a breeze, and we were impressed with the 210-litre capacity that this sturdy plastic water butt offers. The lockable lid adds a level of security and protection for the water stored inside. We found it particularly useful in preventing debris and insects from entering the water.
However, we noticed that the tap threads seemed to be a bit loose, which could lead to potential leaks. It’s important to ensure that the tap is properly fitted and sealed to avoid any water wastage. Additionally, while the lockable lid is a nice feature, it may not fit as securely as expected, so additional measures might be necessary to ensure a tight seal.
The main drawback of the Ward GN325 Water Butt is the absence of a base, which needs to be purchased separately. We recommend looking for a compatible base that can securely support the water butt when it’s filled.
Overall, we find that this water butt is an excellent investment for anyone looking to conserve water and contribute positively to the environment. Just be prepared to address the minor flaws we mentioned to have a fully functional and efficient garden tool.
STORM TRADING GROUP 250L Water Butt XL
We recommend the STORM TRADING GROUP 250L Water Butt XL for those seeking an environmentally friendly way to store and use rainwater in their garden.
Pros
- Large 250L capacity
- Easy to assemble and install
- Comes with stand, diverter, tap, t-piece and flexible hose
Cons
- Stability issues when full
- Input hole might need further drilling
- Water pipe supplied may feel like cheap quality
The STORM TRADING GROUP 250L Water Butt XL is an excellent addition to any garden with its traditional barrel design and large capacity for rainwater collection. We found the water butt very easy to assemble, and it comes with all the necessary accessories, such as a stand, diverter, tap, t-piece and flexible hose, making installation a breeze.
The eco-friendly nature of this product is great for the environment, as it allows you to collect rainwater and use it for watering your garden or other outdoor tasks. The dark green colour is unobtrusive and blends well with outdoor surroundings.
However, we did notice a few issues with this water butt. The stability can be a concern when the butt is full; it may tilt and potentially fall off the base. Additionally, the input hole for rainwater may need further drilling for proper alignment, and the water pipe provided might not be of the highest quality.
Overall, the STORM TRADING GROUP 250L Water Butt XL is a solid choice for those looking to store water and conserve resources in their garden. With a few adjustments and improvements, this water butt can be a great addition to your outdoor space.
PLANT !T Strata 100L Slimline Water Butt
The PLANT !T Strata 100L Slimline Water Butt is an excellent addition for any gardener in need of an efficient water storage solution.
Pros
- 100L capacity suitable for most gardens
- Easy-to-use tap included
- Lockable lid for added safety and convenience
Cons
- Possible difficulty in installation
- Some issues with the tap hole’s quality
- Made of plastic, may not suit all aesthetic preferences
We recently had the chance to install and use the PLANT !T Strata 100L Slimline Water Butt. It has a compact, slim design which makes it perfect for small gardens or limited spaces. The 100-litre capacity ensures that we have plenty of water available for our plants, especially during those dry summer months.
The tap included with this water butt is easy to use, and it’s quite convenient for filling up watering cans. We also appreciated the lockable lid as it provides added safety and prevents debris from getting into our water supply. The hard-wearing, durable weather-resistant plastic ensures that this water butt will last for several seasons without any issues.
However, we did face some difficulty with the installation process, particularly with the tap hole. Some may find that it’s not drilled properly, which could lead to potential leaks. While the plastic material is durable, it might not be everyone’s preferred choice for garden aesthetics. However, it should be noted that the overall design is quite pleasing for a UK garden.
In conclusion, the PLANT !T Strata 100L Slimline Water Butt is an excellent choice if you’re looking to efficiently store water for your garden. The pros of its attractive design, functionality, and convenience outweigh the minor cons of installation and materials.
Morgan’s Trade Strong & Durable Water Butt Stand
We highly recommend the Morgan’s Trade Strong & Durable Water Butt Stand for its sturdy build and space-saving design.
Pros
- Durable and rust-resistant materials
- Compatible with 120L, 210L, and 250L water butts
- Compact, space-saving design
Cons
- Carrier might not follow delivery instructions
- No assembly instructions included
- May require additional support for heavier water butts
Having recently used the Morgan’s Trade Strong & Durable Water Butt Stand, we can confidently say that it’s a reliable and robust choice. Made from strong materials, this stand is designed to last and resist rust, making it perfect for outdoor use. Additionally, its compatibility with various-sized water butts (120L, 210L, and 250L) ensures it can meet a range of water storage needs.
The modern, space-saving design of this water butt stand is truly a standout feature. It doesn’t take up much room, making it an ideal choice for gardens or storage areas where space is at a premium. Furthermore, by elevating the water butt off the ground, the stand prevents damage to the bottom of the container, thus prolonging its lifespan.
However, there were a few minor drawbacks we noticed. The carrier might not follow delivery instructions, potentially leaving the stand on the doorstep instead of handing it to the recipient. Additionally, there were no assembly instructions included, which could be a minor inconvenience. Lastly, although the stand is designed to be strong, additional support might be needed for heavier water butts to prevent tipping or instability.
In conclusion, the Morgan’s Trade Strong & Durable Water Butt Stand is an excellent investment for those looking to enhance their outdoor water storage setup. Its sturdy construction, compatibility with various water butt sizes, and compact design make it a top choice despite some minor cons.
Extra Large 250L Water Butt Set
This water butt set is ideal for those looking to conserve water and maintain a healthy garden during dry spells.
Pros
- Extra large 250L capacity
- Comes with lid, tap, and filler kit
- Easy-to-use stand included
Cons
- Some users report a leaking tap
- Might require PTFM tape for tap thread
- Base may be prone to breakage
We recently tried the Extra Large 250L Water Butt Set by Pluto Packaging and have found it to be an eco-friendly solution for collecting rainwater in our garden. The 250-litre capacity is perfect for large gardens and can hold a generous amount of rainwater, which we can use during drier periods.
We particularly liked the inclusion of the stand, which elevates the water butt, making it convenient and easy to fill watering cans and decant the water. Additionally, the 54 x 54 x 111cm dimensions and square shape of the water butt allow for a neat fit in our garden space, taking up minimal room whilst maximising storage capacity.
Despite some reported issues with a leaking tap and a potentially fragile base, we found that using PTFM tape on the tap thread resolved any leakage concerns. For any garden enthusiasts who are environmentally conscious and looking to conserve water, we recommend the Extra Large 250L Water Butt Set as a reliable and practical option.
Trueshopping British Made 100L Slimline Garden Water Butt Kit
A versatile and efficient water butt that would be great for small gardens due to its slim design and easy setup.
Pros
- Compact and slim design
- Straightforward assembly
- Good value for money
Cons
- Limited capacity (100 litres)
- Fragile tap
- Manual instructions unclear
We recently tried the Trueshopping British Made 100L Slimline Garden Water Butt Kit, and it proved to be a helpful addition to our garden space. Its slim and compact design made it ideal for our small garden, allowing us to save space while still having access to rainwater for watering plants and other gardening tasks.
Assembling this water butt was quite straightforward, even for someone with no previous experience. However, we must note that the assembly instructions could have been clearer, as some of the information was hidden on the sticky tape.
Although the 100-litre capacity may not suit larger gardens, it filled up quickly with just one downpour, proving efficient for our garden’s needs. The tap’s placement was convenient for watering nearby plants, but a word of caution: it felt rather fragile.
In summary, the Trueshopping British Made 100L Slimline Garden Water Butt Kit is a useful and affordable choice for those with limited garden space seeking a compact and easy-to-assemble water storage solution. Just be careful with the tap and take your time in understanding the instructions for a quick and easy setup.
STORM TRADING GROUP Slimline Garden Water Butt Set
The STORM TRADING GROUP Slimline Garden Water Butt Set is an excellent choice for anyone looking to efficiently collect and use rainwater in their garden.
Pros
- Easy to assemble and install
- Comes with stand and rain diverter kit
- Choice of 100L or 210L capacity
Cons
- Delicate, should handle with care
- Tap might require additional bonding to prevent leaks
- Return cost not covered
We recently got our hands on the STORM TRADING GROUP Slimline Garden Water Butt Set and found it to be a highly efficient and practical solution for collecting rainwater for our garden. The assembly was easy, and the stand ensures that access to the tap is smooth for filling watering cans or other containers.
The rain diverter kit, which was included, allowed us to directly channel rainwater from our roof into the water butt. This made the whole rainwater harvesting experience seamless and convenient. Depending on your garden size, there is an option to choose between a 100L or a 210L capacity water butt, catering to different needs.
As useful as it is, we did notice that the water butt is relatively delicate. So, it is essential to be cautious during the installation process. When screwing in the tap, we encountered a small issue; it required some bonding to prevent leaks, which may be a minor inconvenience for some users.
It’s worth noting that if you decide to return the product, the return cost isn’t covered. Despite these minor issues, overall, the STORM TRADING GROUP Slimline Garden Water Butt Set has proven to be a fantastic addition to our gardening tools, helping us save water and money.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best water butt in the UK, there are a few key features and factors to consider that will help us identify the right product for our needs. In this buying guide, we will outline some crucial aspects to examine when shopping for a water butt.
Capacity
One of the primary considerations is the capacity of the water butt. Depending on the size of the garden and the amount of rainfall in our area, we may require a water butt with a larger capacity, such as 100, 200 or even 500 litres. It’s essential to assess how much water we’ll need for our plants, and choose a water butt with a suitable size accordingly.
Material
Water butts are typically made from plastic or metal materials. Plastic water butts are lightweight, easy to handle, and less expensive. However, they may not be as durable or weather-resistant as metal options. Meanwhile, metal water butts are more robust and can withstand harsh weather conditions but may be more challenging to manoeuvre and costlier.
Design
The design of the water butt is another essential feature to consider. An attractive water butt can enhance the overall aesthetic of our garden, while a compact design can be beneficial if we have limited space. Additionally, a slimline water butt can be easily fitted against a wall or fence to maximise available space.
Stand and Accessories
When selecting a water butt, it’s crucial to examine what additional accessories are included, such as a stand, tap, or diverter kit. A stand enables us to position the water butt at a suitable height for comfortable use and accessibility. A tap will help us to access the water more easily, and a diverter kit will assist in the efficient collection and storage of rainwater.
By considering these features and factors, we can confidently choose the best water butt for our garden needs, ensuring an eco-friendly, efficient, and practical solution for storing and utilising rainwater.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal size for a water butt?
The ideal size for a water butt depends on your garden size and water usage needs. Smaller gardens may require a 100-litre capacity, while larger gardens might need a 200-litre or more. Consider your watering habits and the frequency of rainfall in your area when choosing a size.
Which are the most durable materials for a water butt?
The most durable materials for a water butt include polyethylene, polypropylene, and recycled plastic. These materials are weather-resistant, robust, and long-lasting. They can withstand extreme temperatures and exposure to the elements without cracking or deteriorating.
Are there aesthetic options like planters available?
Yes, there are water butts with integrated planters, designed to blend in with your garden’s aesthetics. These options allow you to grow plants on top while storing water below. These water butts can serve as a practical and decorative feature in your garden.
What are essential accessories for efficient use?
Key accessories for efficient water butt use include:
- A rainwater diverter, which directs rainwater from your gutter into the butt.
- A sturdy stand, providing stability and elevation for easy access to the tap.
- A tight-fitting lid to prevent debris and contaminants from entering the water.
- A suitable tap to ease water access for your watering needs.
How do I maintain water quality in the water butt?
To maintain water quality, ensure you clean the water butt regularly and use a tight-fitting lid to prevent debris and contaminants. Add water treatment tablets or use a filter to remove any debris before using it on your plants. Regularly check for algae and mildew and clean accordingly.