Choosing the Best Water Storage Containers for Emergency Storage

The containers you choose for water storage play a vital role in maintaining water quality and ensuring your family’s safety. This guide will help you navigate the options and make informed decisions about water storage containers. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting containers for water storage.

Determine your storage space first, then purchase the containers that work best for that space.

The Best Water Storage Containers for Safe Long-Term Storage: What to Look For

What to Use

Food-grade containers are a must for Long-Term Water. They are made from HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) and are the best choice for water storage. They are BPA-free, durable, and resistant to impact. These containers are typically opaque or dark-colored to block light, preventing organism growth and maintaining water quality. While it’s possible for plastic to degrade over long periods, proper storage and regular water rotation can prevent issues.

How to identify food-grade containers

To check if a container is safe for water storage, look for recycling codes like #2 (HDPE), #4 (LDPE), or #5 (PP). These materials are generally safe for storing water.

What Not to Use

Here are some containers that should never be used for water storage.

Containers with recycling codes **#3 (PVC)** and **#6 (PS)** should be avoided, as they can leach harmful chemicals.
Never use non-food-grade containers, old or damaged containers, or any containers of unknown origin.
Avoid using containers like 1-gallon jugs from grocery stores for long-term storage, as the plastic can degrade over time.
Clear soda-type bottles allow light to penetrate, promoting algae growth, and glass containers may break easily, so avoid these for long-term storage unless for small amounts.
Do not buy containers from Craigslist, eBay, etc. unless you know the seller.

Long-Term Water Storage Container Options for Every Space

Plastic containers are popular due to their general affordability and availability. The wide range of sizes makes them suitable for different storage needs. Here are some popular water storage container options – from smallest to largest.

Collapsible Water Container

This food-grade plastic container is easily stored until time to be filled once an emergency has arrived. When needed, you simply place it in your bathtub and fill it with water. It comes with a pump for ease of use and holds up to 100 gallons of drinking water. They can be easily folded or rolled up after the emergency has passed.

Stackable Water Bricks

These compact containers are designed for smaller spaces and are stackable, allowing you to store more with less floor space required. They come in both 1.6- and 3.5-gallon sizes, making them easy to use and transport. These containers are perfect for those with limited storage areas or who want to build up their supply gradually, as they can be stored in tight spaces under couches, beds, or closets.

5/7/15-Gallon Water Jugs

They’re lightweight, easy to transport, and relatively affordable. Their opaque color, typically blue, is specifically designed to limit light exposure, thereby preventing algae growth. If you plan to stack these jugs, pay close attention to their thickness. Thicker, stackable jugs may come at a higher cost, but they are an excellent choice for optimizing limited storage space.

20-Gallon Container

The 20-gallon water container is a portable, space-saving water storage solution. This container is stackable up to three high and has built-in handles that make it easy to move. This serves as a middle option between 5-gallon and 55-gallon containers and is a good choice for apartments and other small spaces.

55-Gallon Barrel

The 55-gallon barrel is one of the most popular water storage options available today. It is sturdy, and airtight, and allows you to maximize storage capacity while minimizing floor space usage. Beware – these drums are heavy and difficult to move once full. You’ll also need additional tools like a siphon pump to access the water easily.

Larger Drum & Tank

The larger drum and tank offer the ability to store substantial quantities of water. They are available in various sizes and range from 160 gallons to over 500 gallons. If you have the space, a larger tank can lead to significant cost savings, as the price per gallon is considerably lower compared to using multiple 5-gallon containers. Each tank includes a detachable spigot for water dispensing.

Outdoor Barrel System

Outdoor barrel systems allow you to store at least 30 gallons of non-stagnant water by rotating the water continuously. These systems are typically UV-resistant, meaning they are designed to withstand sunlight, unlike most other containers that require protection from light exposure. While sun exposure is fine with these specialized systems, keep in mind that hoses attached to the system should be food-grade to ensure water safety.

Cistern

Cisterns are specifically designed for collecting and storing rainwater, often used for irrigation, household use, and emergency water supply. These systems can collect water from multiple downspouts and have a much larger capacity, typically ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 gallons or more. Cisterns require regular maintenance and water testing.

Conclusion

Choosing the right containers for water storage is essential to your emergency preparedness plan. The type of container you choose will depend on factors like space and budget, but the goal remains the same: ensuring that your water stays fresh, safe, and accessible when you need it most. Remember to protect your investment with proper storage techniques, regular inspections, maintenance, and water testing for quality control.