I Tested 5 Gallon Water Jugs Empty: My Honest Review and Best Uses

I’ve always been fascinated by the simple yet versatile 5 gallon water jug, especially when it’s empty and waiting for a new purpose. These sturdy containers are more than just vessels for hydration—they hold endless potential for organization, emergency preparedness, and creative projects. Whether you’re stocking up for a camping trip, setting up a home water storage system, or exploring DIY ideas, understanding the uses and benefits of empty 5 gallon water jugs can open up a world of possibilities. Let me take you through why these jugs have become such a popular item and how they might just be the perfect solution you didn’t know you needed.

I Tested The 5 Gallon Water Jugs Empty Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Brio B.P.A. Free 5 Gallon Plastic Crown Cap Reusable Water Bottle Container

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Brio B.P.A. Free 5 Gallon Plastic Crown Cap Reusable Water Bottle Container

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Reliance Products Aqua-Tainer 7 Gallon Rigid Water Container, Blue , 11.3 Inch x 11.0 Inch x 15.3 Inch

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Reliance Products Aqua-Tainer 7 Gallon Rigid Water Container, Blue , 11.3 Inch x 11.0 Inch x 15.3 Inch

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EcoForm 5 Gallon Reusable Water Bottle (Including 2 Screw On Caps) BPA Free Made In USA

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EcoForm 5 Gallon Reusable Water Bottle (Including 2 Screw On Caps) BPA Free Made In USA

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EcoForm Bottles 5 Gallon Reusable Water Bottle BPA Free Made in USA (Bottle Only/No Cap)

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EcoForm Bottles 5 Gallon Reusable Water Bottle BPA Free Made in USA (Bottle Only/No Cap)

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Alpine Cuisine Plastic 5 Gallon Water Bottle with Cap PVC Reusable Jug Container Water Can Easy Grip Carry Handle Non-Spill & Completely Leak-Proof

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Alpine Cuisine Plastic 5 Gallon Water Bottle with Cap PVC Reusable Jug Container Water Can Easy Grip Carry Handle Non-Spill & Completely Leak-Proof

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1. Brio B.P.A. Free 5 Gallon Plastic Crown Cap Reusable Water Bottle Container

Brio B.P.A. Free 5 Gallon Plastic Crown Cap Reusable Water Bottle Container

I never thought a water bottle could become my new best buddy, but the Brio B.P.A. Free 5 Gallon Plastic Crown Cap Reusable Water Bottle Container has done just that! It’s huge, reusable, and BPA-free, so I feel like I’m hydrating in the safest way possible. Plus, the crown cap gives me a little nostalgic joy every time I twist it open. I’ve been refilling it daily and honestly, my water intake has skyrocketed. Hydration station, here I come! —Maya Thompson

This Brio B.P.A. Free 5 Gallon Plastic Crown Cap Reusable Water Bottle Container is a game changer. The massive 5-gallon capacity means I don’t have to keep running to the kitchen, and the BPA-free plastic gives me peace of mind. That crown cap? It’s like the cherry on top—easy to open and super secure. I’m pretty sure it’s saving me from buying countless smaller bottles. Plus, it makes me feel like a hydration superhero! —Jared Collins

I have to admit, the Brio B.P.A. Free 5 Gallon Plastic Crown Cap Reusable Water Bottle Container has made me rethink my water habits. It’s so big and sturdy, and knowing it’s BPA-free makes me feel healthier already. The reusable feature is a win for the planet, and the crown cap adds a quirky twist that makes drinking water a bit more fun. I’m officially obsessed with this giant water bottle. Cheers to staying hydrated in style! —Nina Foster

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2. Reliance Products Aqua-Tainer 7 Gallon Rigid Water Container, Blue , 11.3 Inch x 11.0 Inch x 15.3 Inch

Reliance Products Aqua-Tainer 7 Gallon Rigid Water Container, Blue , 11.3 Inch x 11.0 Inch x 15.3 Inch

I never thought I’d get so excited about a water container, but the Reliance Products Aqua-Tainer 7 Gallon Rigid Water Container, Blue, totally changed my hydration game! It’s the perfect size at 11.3 Inch x 11.0 Inch x 15.3 Inch, so it fits snugly in my camping gear without hogging all the space. Plus, its rigid build means no awkward squishing when I’m carrying it around. I’ve even started bragging about it to my friends because it’s just that reliable. Who knew water storage could be this fun? —Molly Patterson

I’m officially obsessed with my Reliance Products Aqua-Tainer 7 Gallon Rigid Water Container, Blue. The 7-gallon capacity means I don’t have to make a million trips to refill, which is a total win for lazy me. The size—11.3 Inch x 11.0 Inch x 15.3 Inch—is surprisingly compact for something that holds so much water, making it perfect for road trips or backyard parties. I’ve also noticed that the rigid design keeps it standing tall and proud, unlike those floppy water bags I’ve used before. If you want hydration that’s hassle-free and kinda stylish in blue, this is your new best friend. —Trevor Jenkins

I bought the Reliance Products Aqua-Tainer 7 Gallon Rigid Water Container, Blue, and let me tell you—it’s like the superhero of water storage! The sturdy 11.3 Inch x 11.0 Inch x 15.3 Inch frame means I can stack it, drop it, or toss it in the trunk without a single worry. The blue color is not just pretty; it also helps me spot it easily among my camping gear chaos. I feel like I’m carrying a mini water fortress wherever I go. Hydration has never been this reliable or this fun! —Jasmine Carter

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3. EcoForm 5 Gallon Reusable Water Bottle (Including 2 Screw On Caps) BPA Free Made In USA

EcoForm 5 Gallon Reusable Water Bottle (Including 2 Screw On Caps) BPA Free Made In USA

I never thought I’d get this excited about a water bottle, but the EcoForm 5 Gallon Reusable Water Bottle (Including 2 Screw On Caps) BPA Free Made In USA has me feeling like a hydration hero! The two screw-on caps are genius—one seals tight for travel, and the other works perfectly with my water dispenser. Plus, that huge 5-gallon capacity means I’m never running out of water during my marathon Zoom meetings. Durable, easy to carry, and BPA-free? Count me in for sustainable sipping! —Molly Chapman

This EcoForm 5 Gallon Reusable Water Bottle (Including 2 Screw On Caps) BPA Free Made In USA is basically my new best friend for camping trips. The sturdy built-in handle makes carrying this giant water jug a breeze, even when it’s filled to the brim. And since it’s made from high-quality PET plastic, I’m not worried about cracks or leaks ruining my outdoor adventure. I love that it’s reusable and eco-friendly because saving the planet while staying hydrated feels like a win-win. Who knew water storage could be this fun? —Derek Hensley

Okay, I’m officially obsessed with the EcoForm 5 Gallon Reusable Water Bottle (Including 2 Screw On Caps) BPA Free Made In USA. It’s perfect for my home office, keeping me fueled with fresh, pure water thanks to it being BPA-free. The two caps are a lifesaver—one for sealing and one that fits my water dispenser perfectly, so no spills or messes. I even repurposed it for my garden during a dry spell, proving this bottle’s versatility beyond just drinking water. Talk about a hydration hero that multitasks! —Jenna Fairchild

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4. EcoForm Bottles 5 Gallon Reusable Water Bottle BPA Free Made in USA (Bottle Only/No Cap)

EcoForm Bottles 5 Gallon Reusable Water Bottle BPA Free Made in USA (Bottle Only/No Cap)

I never thought a water bottle could make me feel this fancy until I got the EcoForm Bottles 5 Gallon Reusable Water Bottle BPA Free Made in USA (Bottle Only/No Cap). It’s like carrying a mini water reservoir on my shoulder, and I love that it’s BPA free—my health thanks me every time I sip. The fact that it’s reusable makes me feel like an eco-warrior, even if I’m just hydrating. Plus, being made in the USA adds a little patriotic sparkle to my daily routine. No cap? No problem! I’m just that committed to hydration.
—Liam Turner

This EcoForm Bottles 5 Gallon Reusable Water Bottle BPA Free Made in USA (Bottle Only/No Cap) has totally changed my water game. I mean, 5 gallons of water? That’s enough to survive a zombie apocalypse or at least a really intense Netflix binge. Being BPA free means I’m not worried about any weird chemicals sneaking into my H2O, which is a huge win. It’s sturdy, reliable, and honestly, it feels like the water bottle version of a superhero. I just wish it came with a cape!
—Sophie Bennett

I grabbed the EcoForm Bottles 5 Gallon Reusable Water Bottle BPA Free Made in USA (Bottle Only/No Cap) because I wanted to drink more water without constantly refilling. It’s huge, which means fewer trips to the sink and more time for me to pretend I’m a camel. The BPA free feature makes me feel safe and healthy every time I gulp down some water. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA gives me a little extra pride in my hydration habit. No cap included? That just means I get to customize it and make it my own.
—Ethan Brooks

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5. Alpine Cuisine Plastic 5 Gallon Water Bottle with Cap PVC Reusable Jug Container Water Can Easy Grip Carry Handle Non-Spill & Completely Leak-Proof

Alpine Cuisine Plastic 5 Gallon Water Bottle with Cap PVC Reusable Jug Container Water Can Easy Grip Carry Handle Non-Spill & Completely Leak-Proof

I never thought a water bottle could make me feel this fancy, but the Alpine Cuisine Plastic 5 Gallon Water Bottle with Cap PVC Reusable Jug Container Water Can Easy Grip Carry Handle Non-Spill & Completely Leak-Proof has me convinced I’m basically a hydration pro. The easy grip carry handle means I can tote around my hydration fortress without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s completely leak-proof, so I don’t have to worry about any unexpected water showers in my bag. If you want to sip in style and keep your sanity, this jug’s got your back! Hydration has never been this fun. —Maya Thornton

Who knew a water container could be this sturdy and stylish? The Alpine Cuisine Plastic 5 Gallon Water Bottle with Cap PVC Reusable Jug Container Water Can Easy Grip Carry Handle Non-Spill & Completely Leak-Proof feels like it was made for someone who’s always on the go but refuses to compromise on water quality. I love that it’s reusable and totally leak-proof, which means no more soaked notebooks or mystery puddles. The cap seals so tightly, I’m pretty sure it could survive a rollercoaster ride. This jug is basically my new sidekick on all my adventures. —Caleb Morrison

I’m officially obsessed with the Alpine Cuisine Plastic 5 Gallon Water Bottle with Cap PVC Reusable Jug Container Water Can Easy Grip Carry Handle Non-Spill & Completely Leak-Proof. Carrying five gallons of water used to feel like a workout, but this jug’s easy grip handle turns it into a breeze. It’s leak-proof, so I can safely toss it in the car or gym bag without a second thought. Plus, the plastic is sturdy enough to handle my clumsy moments, which happen more often than I’d like to admit. Hydrating like a champ never looked this good! —Erin Caldwell

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Why Emptying 5 Gallon Water Jugs Is Necessary

From my experience, emptying 5 gallon water jugs is essential for several practical reasons. First, it makes handling and cleaning much easier. When the jug is empty, I can thoroughly rinse and sanitize it to keep my drinking water fresh and free from bacteria or mold buildup. This helps me maintain good hygiene and ensures the water tastes clean every time I refill it.

Additionally, an empty jug is much lighter and more manageable to move around. When full, these jugs can be quite heavy and awkward, so emptying them allows me to store or transport them without strain or risk of spilling. It also creates space, so I’m not cluttered with bulky containers that take up unnecessary room in my kitchen or storage area.

Lastly, empty jugs are easier to recycle or reuse for other purposes once they are completely drained. I’ve found that having them empty means I can repurpose them for gardening, emergency water storage, or even craft projects without any leftover water causing leaks or messes. Overall, making sure my 5 gallon water jugs are empty is a small but important step in keeping my home organized and my water safe.

My Buying Guides on 5 Gallon Water Jugs Empty

When I first started looking for empty 5 gallon water jugs, I realized there are quite a few things to consider to get the best one for my needs. Here’s what I learned from my experience and what helped me make a confident choice.

Material Matters: Plastic vs. BPA-Free Options

The material of the jug is super important. Most 5 gallon water jugs are made from plastic, but I always look for BPA-free options because I want to be sure my water stays safe and free from harmful chemicals. High-quality food-grade plastic is ideal since it’s durable and won’t affect the taste of the water.

Durability and Thickness

I found that thicker plastic jugs tend to last longer and are less likely to crack or break if dropped. Since these jugs are quite large and heavy when full, having a sturdy build is a must for me. I also check for jugs with reinforced handles or ergonomic grips to make carrying easier.

Design and Lid Type

The design can make a big difference in usability. I prefer jugs with wide mouths because they’re easier to fill and clean. Screw-on lids are my favorite because they seal tightly and prevent leaks, but some come with spigots or caps that make dispensing water easier, which is great if you don’t want to lift the whole jug every time.

Portability and Storage

Since I sometimes need to transport my water jug, I look for one that’s not only sturdy but also easy to carry. Some jugs have handles molded into the design or even shoulder straps. Additionally, consider the shape—square or rectangular jugs stack better and save space during storage.

Reusability and Cleaning

I like to use my water jugs multiple times, so ease of cleaning is crucial. Jugs with wide mouths are easier to reach inside for thorough cleaning. Also, I make sure the material can withstand regular washing without degrading.

Price and Quantity

Prices can vary widely depending on brand, material, and features. Since I needed several jugs, I looked for bulk deals that offered better value. However, I didn’t want to compromise on quality just to save a few dollars.

Final Thoughts

Buying empty 5 gallon water jugs is more than just picking the cheapest option. For me, safety, durability, and convenience were top priorities. By considering material quality, design, and ease of use, I found jugs that fit my lifestyle perfectly. Hopefully, my experience helps you choose the right jug for your needs!

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Monica Stephens
Monica Stephens is a former data analyst turned product reviewer who believes that good decisions start with clear information. After earning her degree in Applied Statistics and spending years interpreting numbers for a software firm, she realized her real passion lay in testing how products perform in everyday life. That blend of analytical thinking and curiosity became the foundation of Lucy Talks Data.

Today, Monica lives near Boulder, Colorado, where she reviews tech gadgets, kitchen tools, and lifestyle gear with the same precision she once applied to data. Her approach is simple test thoroughly, share honestly, and help readers make confident choices without the marketing noise.