It's no secret that the UK is the land of downpours - we basically invented rain. Even as the weather gets hotter in the spring and summer months, rainfall is never more than a dark and stormy cloud away - but have you ever considered where all that rainwater goes?
Apart from nourishing our luscious green hills, most fresh water goes to waste down the drains, rather than being put to good use. Luckily, water butts are here to save the day.
A water butt is a large container with the sole purpose of catching and storing rainwater, typically from rooftops via pipes. Water butts help save water and ensure a constant supply of fresh water is provided to your garden, even in the drier months.
According to Waterwise, if every household in the UK was equipped with a water butt, then 30,000 million litres of water would be saved each year - does it get more convincing than that?
To help inform your eco-friendly decision of installing a water butt, we've rounded up the best models out there in terms of price, quality and overall ratings.
What are the benefits of a water butt?
Water butts are great for saving water, and can also save you money if your water is metered.
Fresh water is also extremely beneficial to your plants due to its nitrate and organic content. The lack of harsh minerals and salts in rainwater also means no build-up of residues will develop in your plants over time.
What to look for when buying a water butt?
Material, capacity and budget are the main things to look out for when purchasing a water butt.
In terms of material, most water butts are made of varying types of plastic. Make sure to look out for durable, weather-resistant material that won't wear with the seasons. High-density materials are also likely to offer the most stability and durability over time.
Water butts generally range from 100 litres to 250-litre capacities - depending on the size of your garden, you'll want to opt for a water butt with a bigger or smaller capacity.
Finally, while budget is always an important consideration, you'll be happy to know that most water butts are mid-range in price. However, more well-designed and attractive options sit on the higher end of the price point, as do models that double as planters.
The best water butts UK
A high-quality, durable water option that'll last you a while, the Charles Bentley water butt is useful for any kind of water collection in your garden. It comes with a lockable lid for security as well as a tap, and the filler is simple and straightforward to use.
Key specifications:
Dimensions 97 x 57 x 57cm
210L capacity
Made from high-density plastic
Water exit tap
Three part stand and downpipe filler kit
This 200-litre capacity water butt boasts a stylish wood grain effect to complement your garden. The water butt is fully equipped with everything you need to get started and comes with easy-to-follow instructions to begin harvesting water ASAP.
Key specifications:
Dimensions: 68 x 68 x 121.59cm
200L capacity
Made from recycled plastic
Five year guarantee
Collect rainwater and spruce up your garden in one, with this beautiful ceramic-like water butt. This option is made from 100 per cent recycled materials and will help save money on those pesky water bills. Ideally suited to smaller gardens.
Key specifications:
Dimensions: 77 x 60 x 60 cm
150L capacity
Lightweight and weather-resistant
Simple but effective, this water butt comes with a lockable lid and is made of durable weather resistant plastic. The design is traditional but aesthetically pleasing, and its size makes it a great match for medium to larger gardens.
Key specifications:
Dimensions: 57 x 97cm 210L capacity
Made from weather-resistant plastic
Lockable lid
www.waterbuttsdirect.co.uk
Want an option that'll blend right in with nature? The ROTO wood barrel effect water butt is as functional as it is a snazzy garden accessory. The material is UV and impact resistant, meaning it'll last you years and the 120-litre capacity makes this a fab option for smaller gardens or balconies.
Key specifications:
Dimensions: 50 x 47 x 66cm
120L capacity
www.waterbuttsdirect.co.uk
The priciest option on this list, but for good reason, this water butt doubles as a planter, so you can store and water your plants at the same time. The chic white marble will spruce up your garden in a heartbeat and is ideal for various outdoor spaces no matter how big or small.
Key specifications:
Dimensions: 17 x 52cm
120L capacity
Comes with a brass tap and diverter
If you're limited on space, this narrow yet sturdy water butt is your best bet. The exterior is high-quality, and the fitting system is clever and simple, with absolutely no hassle on your end.
Key specifications:
Dimensions: 40.5 x 40.5 x 95cm
100L capacity
Water exit tap
Four part stand
Made of high density plastic
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Marina Avraam is a Commercial Content Writer for WhatsTheBest, and also writes for Yours.co.uk, heatworld and Closer across beauty, tech, and lifestyle.
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