Imagine a day when the tap runs dry. It’s a thought that might seem distant, but in our unpredictable world, having a reliable water supply at home is more important than ever. Whether it’s for unexpected emergencies, gardening, or simply ensuring you have enough for your family, the need for effective water storage is real.
But where do you even begin when looking for the perfect water storage container for your home? The market is flooded with choices! You might be wondering about size, material, how much space it will take up, and if it’s even safe to store water for long periods. It can feel overwhelming trying to pick the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Don’t worry, we’re here to help! By diving into this guide, you’ll learn all about the different types of water storage containers available. We’ll break down the pros and cons of each, explain what to look for, and offer practical tips to make your decision easy. Get ready to discover the best ways to keep your home prepared and your water supply secure.
Our Top 5 Water Storage Containers For Home Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Water Storage Containers For Home Detailed Reviews
1. WaterBOB Bathtub Storage Emergency Drinking Water Container
Rating: 8.9/10
When disaster strikes, having clean drinking water is crucial. The WaterBOB Bathtub Storage Emergency Drinking Water Container is a smart way to prepare for emergencies like hurricanes or power outages that can disrupt your water supply. It turns your bathtub into a large water storage system, holding up to 100 gallons of fresh water.
What We Like:
- It lets you collect a lot of water in your own bathtub, saving you from buying expensive bottled water or dealing with bulky barrels.
- The WaterBOB keeps your stored water clean and safe for drinking, cooking, and washing for up to 16 weeks, thanks to its special design.
- It’s very easy to set up. You just put the liner in your tub, attach the fill sock to your faucet, and fill it up.
- A hand pump is included, making it simple to get water out when you need it.
- The container is made from safe, BPA-free plastic that meets food-grade standards, so you can trust it with your family’s health.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it holds a lot of water, the initial setup requires filling the entire bathtub, which might not be ideal if you have water restrictions before an event.
- The WaterBOB is a single-use item for its purpose, meaning you’ll need to buy a new one if you use it.
The WaterBOB is a practical and affordable solution for emergency water storage. It gives you peace of mind knowing you have a reliable water source when you need it most.
2. WaterStorageCube BPA-Free Collapsible Water Container with Spigot
Rating: 9.2/10
The WaterStorageCube BPA-Free Collapsible Water Container is a fantastic way to carry and store water for all sorts of adventures and emergencies. This set comes with two 5.3-gallon containers that fold up neatly when not in use, making them super easy to store. They are made from safe, food-grade plastic that won’t make your water taste or smell funny, and they are free from harmful chemicals like BPA. The built-in spigot makes dispensing water a breeze, and the sturdy design means you can trust it to hold up, even when full.
What We Like:
- Made from high-quality, food-grade PE plastic that is odorless and doesn’t affect water taste.
- BPA, PVC, and DEHP-free for safe drinking water.
- Lightweight, compact, and foldable design for easy storage and portability.
- Soft, molded handles make carrying comfortable.
- Leak-proof design with a secure lid and spigot that has a good, controllable flow.
- Durable, one-piece construction without seams or weak handles.
- Excellent for emergency preparedness, camping, picnics, and daily use.
- Includes a helpful 30-page “Camping and Emergency Preparedness Survival Guide” eBook.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the plastic might show scuffs or scratches over time with heavy use.
- The foldable nature, while convenient, might require a bit of care to ensure it seals perfectly after multiple uses.
This WaterStorageCube set is a reliable and practical solution for anyone needing portable water storage. It offers peace of mind for emergencies and makes outdoor activities much easier.
3. Scepter 2.5 Gallon True Military BPA Free Water Container
Rating: 9.0/10
The Scepter 2.5 Gallon True Military BPA Free Water Container is a tough and reliable choice for keeping your water safe and accessible. Whether you’re heading out for a camping trip or preparing for emergencies, this water jug is built to last. Its sand color blends in well with outdoor environments, and the BPA-free, food-grade plastic ensures your water stays clean and healthy.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to open and close, so you can get to your water quickly.
- It holds a good amount of water – 2.5 gallons – which is great for longer trips or when you need extra water at home.
- This container is built tough. It won’t get damaged by rust or mold, and it can handle really hot or cold weather without a problem.
- You don’t have to worry about harmful chemicals because it’s made with BPA-free plastic.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s durable, the plastic can sometimes get scuffed or scratched if you’re not careful.
- For some, the 2.5-gallon size might be a bit bulky to carry for long distances.
This Scepter water container is a solid investment for anyone who needs dependable water storage. It offers peace of mind for both adventures and unexpected situations.
4. 3 Pack 40 Gallon Water Storage Bladder
Rating: 9.3/10
Prepare for anything with the Buzzlett 3 Pack 40 Gallon Water Storage Bladder. These heavy-duty, food-grade plastic bags are BPA-free, foldable, and reusable, making them a smart choice for storing water. They’re ideal for emergency preparedness, camping trips, gardening, and even agricultural irrigation. Each bag holds a generous 40 gallons, giving you plenty of water for various needs.
What We Like:
- You get three 40-gallon water storage bags and a siphon pump in one package.
- Filling the bags is simple; just attach the fill tube to your faucet.
- The included siphon pump makes it easy to dispense water.
- These bags are lightweight and foldable, making them easy to store and carry.
- They are reusable, which is good for your wallet and the environment.
- The food-grade plastic keeps your water clean and safe.
- They are perfect for many uses, including emergencies, camping, and watering plants.
- Having a water reserve is important for emergencies like bad weather or water shortages.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the material might be susceptible to punctures from sharp objects.
- The long-term effects of repeated folding and unfolding on the material are not specified.
These water storage bladders offer a practical and cost-effective way to ensure you have a water supply when you need it most. They are a solid investment for peace of mind.
5. AquaPodKit Made in USA – Emergency Bathtub Water Storage Bladder 65-100 Gallon Capacity – BPA Free- Food Grade Materials – Hurricane Disaster Preparedness Supply – Family Survival Supply (Bag)
Rating: 8.8/10
When disaster strikes, having clean water is crucial. The AquaPodKit Made in USA turns your bathtub into a huge water storage tank, holding up to 100 gallons. This means you don’t have to rush to buy expensive bottled water or struggle with big, awkward water barrels. It’s a smart way to make sure your family has safe drinking water when the regular supply is cut off, like during hurricanes or when water pipes break.
What We Like:
- It uses your existing bathtub, so you don’t need extra space for tanks.
- It’s made in the USA with safe, food-grade plastic that’s BPA-free.
- Setting it up is quick and easy, taking only about 15-20 minutes to fill.
- It keeps your stored water clean and safe to drink for up to 16 weeks.
- A siphon pump is included for easy dispensing of water.
What Could Be Improved:
- The capacity is limited by the size of your bathtub.
- While simple, it requires some effort to set up and fill.
The AquaPodKit is a reliable and practical solution for emergency water storage. It provides peace of mind by ensuring your family has access to clean water when you need it most.
Your Essential Guide to Home Water Storage Containers
Having water stored at home is smart. It’s good for emergencies like power outages or when the water supply is interrupted. It’s also handy for gardening or even just having extra water ready. Choosing the right water storage container is important. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for water storage containers, keep these important features in mind:
- Capacity: How much water do you need to store? Containers come in many sizes, from small jugs to large tanks. Think about how many people are in your home and for how long you want to store water.
- Durability: The container needs to be strong. It will hold a lot of weight when full of water. Look for sturdy materials that won’t crack or leak easily.
- Ease of Use: Can you easily fill, move, and empty the container? Think about the shape, weight, and whether it has a good spigot or tap.
- Safety: The container should be made from materials that are safe for drinking water. It shouldn’t add any bad taste or chemicals to the water.
- Portability: If you need to move the container often, look for ones with handles or wheels. Some are designed to be easily carried.
- Stackability: If you need to store multiple containers, ones that can be stacked save space.
Important Materials
The material of your water container matters a lot for safety and how long it lasts.
- Food-Grade Plastic (HDPE): This is a very common and good choice. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is strong, lightweight, and safe for storing drinking water. It doesn’t react with water and is resistant to UV rays, which helps prevent algae growth. Most good water containers are made from this.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel containers are very durable and don’t leach chemicals. They are often used for smaller, portable containers. However, they can be heavier and more expensive.
- Polypropylene: This is another type of plastic that is safe for water. It’s often used for tanks and is quite strong.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make your water container better or worse.
- UV Protection: Containers with UV protection are better. Sunlight can break down some plastics and encourage algae growth. Look for opaque or UV-resistant materials.
- BPA-Free: Make sure the plastic is BPA-free. BPA is a chemical that some people worry about. Most good food-grade plastics today are BPA-free.
- Spigot Quality: A good spigot makes it easy to get water out. A sturdy, leak-proof spigot is a big plus. Cheap spigots can break or leak.
- Lid Seal: The lid should seal tightly. This keeps dirt and bugs out and prevents evaporation.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your container will guide your choice.
- Emergency Preparedness: For emergencies, larger containers (5-50 gallons) are best. You want something durable and easy to access water from. A large barrel with a spigot is a popular choice.
- Camping and Outdoor Activities: For camping, smaller, portable containers (1-5 gallons) with built-in handles are ideal. Collapsible containers are also great for saving space.
- Gardening: If you need water for your plants, a large container that can be placed near your garden is useful. You can even collect rainwater in some larger tanks.
- Everyday Use: Some people use smaller containers for extra drinking water in their homes, especially if they have a well or want to filter their tap water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best material for storing drinking water?
A: Food-grade HDPE plastic is generally the best choice. It is safe, durable, and doesn’t affect the taste of the water.
Q: How much water should I store?
A: A common recommendation is one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days. For a family of four, this means 12 gallons for three days.
Q: How do I clean my water storage container?
A: You can clean it with mild soap and water. Rinse it thoroughly. For sanitizing, you can use a solution of one teaspoon of unscented liquid household bleach per quart of water.
Q: Can I store water outside?
A: Yes, but it’s best to choose containers made from UV-resistant materials and keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent algae growth and plastic degradation.
Q: How long can I store water in a container?
A: Water stored in a clean, sealed container can last for a very long time. However, it’s a good idea to rotate your stored water every six months to a year.
Q: What is a water barrel?
A: A water barrel is a large container, typically made of plastic, used for storing significant amounts of water, often for emergency preparedness or gardening.
Q: Are collapsible water containers good?
A: Yes, collapsible containers are great for saving space, especially for camping or travel. Just make sure they are made from food-grade materials.
Q: How do I know if a container is safe for drinking water?
A: Look for labels that say “food-grade” or “BPA-free.” Reputable brands will clearly state that their containers are safe for potable water.
Q: Can I put tap water directly into the container?
A: Yes, you can. If you are concerned about your tap water quality, you can filter it before storing it.
Q: Do I need to treat the water after storing it?
A: If the water was clean when you stored it and the container is sealed, it should remain safe. However, if you are unsure or it has been stored for a long time, you can boil it or use water purification tablets before drinking.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.