Upgrade Your Rainwater Collection Game: Top Rainwater Tanks for Modern Solutions
Did you know America could collect a trillion gallons of rainwater each year? According to Time Magazine (Sept. 6, 2023), that’s enough to make a huge dent in the growing water scarcity issue. Today, with more unpredictable weather events like Category 5 hurricanes and extended droughts, saving water has become more important than ever.
The good news? Rainwater harvesting can help. Installing rainwater storage tanks for rainwater collection systems is an easy and sustainable way to save water, reduce your bills, and prepare for emergencies—all while doing something great for the planet.
Getting Started on Rainwater Collection for Residential and Commercial Properties
Embarking on your rainwater harvesting journey can seem daunting, but with the right planning, it's a rewarding investment. From choosing the right tank type to understanding your local rainfall patterns, there are a few key factors to consider. A crucial starting point is determining the appropriate tank size for your property. Our easy-to-use rainwater collection calculator takes the guesswork out of the equation by helping you estimate the ideal capacity based on your roof's surface area and average rainfall in your area.
We’ve rounded up the top 9 rainwater collection tanks to suit every space and budget. Whether you live in a city apartment or run a large farm, there’s a rainwater catchment tank that’s perfect for you.


Rain Barrels: Your First Step to Saving Water
Rain barrels are the simplest way to get started with rainwater collection at home. They sit right under your gutter downspout to collect rainwater—perfect for gardening, washing your car, or small outdoor tasks.
Considerations:
- Affordable, easy to install, and compact.
- Best for urban or suburban homeowners with limited space.
While rain barrels aren’t ideal for storing potable water, they’re a fantastic first step toward sustainable rainwater collection.


Slim, Smart, Stylish: Thin Tanks
Need a space-saving rainwater collection solution? Thin tanks are only 11 inches wide and fit neatly along fences or walls. Moreover, Thin Tanks for rainwater harvesting combine practicality with aesthetics. They double as supports for vertical gardens—perfect for adding a splash of greenery to your yard!
Considerations:
- Ideal for urban homes or small outdoor spaces.
- Combine modern design with smart rainwater storage tanks.
These tanks are a hit for homeowners looking for both functionality and style.

Tough and Dependable: Steel Rainwater Tanks
When durability is key, steel water tanks are unbeatable. Built to handle extreme weather and UV exposure, these tanks are ideal for homes or businesses that need a long-term water storage plan.
Considerations:
- Fire-resistant and perfect for fire suppression systems, irrigation, or emergency prep.
- Customizable sizes—up to one million gallons!
If you’re looking for a tough, long-lasting rainwater collection for your enterprise, a stainless steel water storage tank is a smart investment.
Slimline Solutions: Doorway Water Tanks for Efficient Rainwater Collection
Want to a budget friendly solution that optimizes tight spaces? Consider our slimline water storage category. Designed for narrow spaces, doorway water tanks fit where traditional tanks can’t. Whether tucked into your garage, garden, or shed, they’re perfect for:
- Small gardens and irrigation systems.
- Narrow spots needing compact storage.
With sizes ranging from 130 to 610 gallons, these slimline tanks make rainwater collection and storage easier without sacrificing space.
Out of Sight: Underground Water Tanks
Underground water tanks (also called cisterns) are a clever way to store large amounts of water without taking up valuable surface space. What’s more, underground tanks for rainwater harvesting keep your water cool and UV-protected.
Considerations:
- Great for larger properties or areas where above-ground storage isn’t ideal.
- Perfect for irrigation, stormwater management, or emergency water supplies.
Made from durable materials like high-density plastics, these buried rainwater tanks combine functionality with a clean aesthetic. Tank Depot’s underground rainwater collection tanks are mostly made of durable plastics or fiberglass reinforced plastics.
Reliable and Affordable: Vertical Plastic Tanks
Vertical plastic rainwater collection tanks are a first pick for many homes, farms, or businesses. Lightweight and budget-friendly, aboveground rainwater harvesting tanks come in sizes ranging from 20 gallons to 20,000 gallons.
Considerations:
- A favorite for gardening, outdoor cleaning, or large-scale use.
- Easy to install, scalable, and durable.
These tanks make rainwater harvesting simple and cost-effective for anyone looking to conserve water.
Stable and Transportable: Horizontal Leg Tanks
If you are looking for portability in water storage and rainwater collection, horizontal plastic tanks are the way to go.
Considerations:
- Truck water storage tanks (perfect for farms or construction sites).
- Mobile water needs, like irrigation or cleaning.
- Perfect for storing hazardous chemicals and liquids.
With sizes ranging from 25 gallons to over 6,000 gallons, they’re both versatile and easy to manage.
Use It When You Want It: Bladder Tanks for Water Storage
For those looking for a discreet and space-saving rainwater collection system, bladder tanks are an excellent choice. These flexible water storage containers can be tucked away in crawl spaces, under decks—even on uneven surfaces—or in basements, maximizing your available space.
Considerations:
- Ideal for tight spaces and urban environments.
- Easy to install and require minimal site preparation.
- A great option for those who want to minimize the visual impact of their rainwater harvesting system.
Our rainwater bladder tanks come in sizes from 15 gallons to 20,000 gallons, offering a wide range of options for various needs and emergency water storage. They are made from strong, durable materials for efficient and long-lasting performance.
IBC Totes: High-Capacity Rainwater Collection Solutions with Added Protection
IBC totes (Intermediate Bulk Containers) are industrial-grade tanks designed for serious water storage. IBC totes are a popular choice for at-home rainwater collection among rural residents, those living off-grid, and people who enjoy hands-on projects.
Considerations:
- Large-scale irrigation or commercial use.
- Emergency water reserves.
DIY fans especially love IBC totes for rainwater harvesting because their modular design makes them perfect for customization and experimentation with different filtration and distribution setups. Additionally, they are readily available, a cost-effective way to scale your rainwater collection storage, plus the reinforced frames and long shelf life make them a top choice for heavy-duty water storage.
Find the Rainwater Collection Tank That Fits Your Needs at Plastic Mart
Rainwater harvesting is more than a trend—it’s an investment in your home, your wallet, and the environment. Whether you’re looking for a sleek rainwater collection tank for your garden or a large underground water tank for long-term storage, there’s a solution for every need.
Why Choose Rainwater Harvesting?
- Save Money: Lower your water bills and reduce reliance on city water.
- Eco-Friendly: Reduce stormwater runoff and conserve municipal water resources.
- Customizable: From small barrels to 5000-gallon water storage tanks and more, you can find the perfect fit for your space and needs.
Want to get started? Our rainwater collection calculator will help you estimate the amount of rainwater you can collect at any given time.
At Plastic Mart, we make it easy to choose, customize, and install the right tank for you. Start your rainwater collection journey today and see how sustainable living can save you money while helping the planet.
Feel free to reach out for guided consultations and discuss custom rainwater tanks solutions.