Can Wheelie Bins Hold Water and What Can You Use Them For?

We’re all becoming more aware of the impact of how we live on the environment. As well as recycling, there are so many more things we can do at home to protect the planet. Take rainwater harvesting for instance. Did you know that wheelie bins hold water? This means you can use them to collect rainwater and reduce your water usage, along with your water bills.

So can wheelie bins hold water?

Yes, most household-sized wheelie bins (ranging between 80-360 litres) can hold water. Some bigger sizes (660-1280 litres) can hold water as well and they feature a plug to let water out when you are done!

What is Rainwater Harvesting and Why Should You Do it?

Rainwater harvesting is collecting rainwater so you can reuse it. This reduces your need for mains water and can help reduce your water bill. In these times of rising living costs, every bit helps.

According to the Energy Saving Trust, the average UK household uses around 330 litres of water every day. By collecting and reusing rainwater, you’re reusing a precious natural resource. Plus, you get to keep more money in your pocket. Happy days.

How to Harvest Rainwater in your Wheelie Bin

You can buy a water butt from most garden centres or DIY stores. However, who wants to do that when you’ve already got the perfect solution at home? You can collect rainwater in any watertight receptacle. Wheelie bins hold water, so they’re perfect. Here’s how to transform your wheelie bin into a water butt.

To get the best out of your homemade water butt, connect it to the downpipe from your guttering. Drill a hole through the bin lid and poke the pipe through.

Drill another hole about a quarter of the way up your wheelie bin and insert a basic plastic tap. Make sure it’s high enough off the ground to fill your watering can (or plastic milk jug).

Now all that’s left is to sit back and feel smug when it rains. Now your money and the precious water aren’t literally going down the drain.

What Can I Use Harvested Rainwater For?

You can use it in your garden. It’s also handy for flushing the toilet, washing the car, and doing the laundry.

Easy Ways To Save Water At Home

So your wheelie can hold water and you can collect rainwater in it all year round. However, there are other ways you can save water at home.

• Wash your car with a bucket instead of a hose.
• Fix any leaking taps or pipes.
• Water your garden with your harvested rainwater. It’s totally okay to use bathwater too, by the way.
• Take shorter showers. Set a timer on your phone or if you listen to music in the shower, get out after one song.
• An oldie, but goodie, don’t leave the tap running while you’re brushing your teeth.
• During the summer, water plants when it’s cooler in the evening. This means more water will soak into the soil instead of evaporating.
• Instead of using hosepipes attached to the mains, attach them to your wheelie bin water butt.
• Don’t water your lawn. When you cut it, raise the mower blades and leave the grass that little bit longer. Longer grass will retain more moisture.

So there you have it, your humble wheelie bin can hold water and you can turn it into your very own water butt! Will you try this or are you already doing it? We’d love you to let us know!

Want a wheelie you can turn into a water butt? Or do you just need a new rubbish receptacle? We’ve got you! For more interesting articles on wheelie bins and sustainable living, check out the rest of our blog.