Best 55-Gallon Metal Barrels for Storage, Cleanup, and Outdoor Use
If you are searching for a 50-gallon metal barrel, these 55-gallon steel drums are close-capacity options for storage, waste handling, or outdoor cleanup. The BayTec reconditioned barrel is best for utility use on a budget-conscious project, while its closed-top steel drum is better for compatible solids and non-water-based liquids. Open-head models suit users who need full access for filling and handling. Check the drum’s condition, closure style, interior, and intended contents before choosing.
| Product | Best For | Key Difference |
|---|---|---|
| BayTec Reconditioned Steel Barrel | General utility use | Used and reconditioned; random color |
| BayTec Closed-Top Steel Drum | Solids and non-water-based liquids | Closed top with two fittings |
| BayTec Open-Head Drum With Cover | Accessible storage and handling | Bolt-ring lid; non-lined interior |
| Readi Soil Reconditioned Burn Barrel | Outdoor yard cleanup | Raised bottom design |
| BayTec Open-Head Drum | Loading and unloading bulk contents | Removable lid and rust-inhibiting coating |
BayTec Reconditioned Steel Utility Barrel
This 55-gallon steel barrel is listed for use as a burn drum, trash barrel, storage drum, or refuse-composting barrel. It is a versatile choice when the priority is a general-purpose metal container rather than a new, uniform-finish drum.
Best for: Buyers seeking a utility barrel for non-sensitive storage or refuse tasks. It was selected because the listed uses cover several common outdoor and storage needs.
Limitation: This is a reconditioned drum. The listing notes that it may have light scratches, residual product, and some odor, and the color is random. Avoid it if a clean, unused interior or consistent appearance is essential.
BayTec Closed-Top Steel Drum
BayTec’s black 55-gallon closed-top drum is made from first-quality cold-rolled steel. It has 2-inch and 3/4-inch NPS fittings and is described as suitable for solids and non-water-based liquids. The listing also states that it is designed, manufactured, and certified to meet UN requirements for materials under DOT 49 CFR.
Best for: Buyers who need a closed-head steel drum with fittings for compatible contents. It is a stronger match than an open-head barrel when a fixed top and fitting access suit the planned use.
Limitation: The listing specifies non-water-based liquids, so do not assume it is appropriate for water or every chemical. Confirm material compatibility and applicable handling requirements before filling it.
BayTec Open-Head Drum With Bolt Ring
This black 55-gallon open-head drum has a cover and bolt-ring closure. Its interior is non-lined, and the listing describes it as suitable for solids and liquids that do not require a lining. It is also described as UN rated and tested to help ensure safe shipping of hazardous materials.
Best for: Users who want a removable cover for easier access while loading, emptying, or handling contents. The bolt ring provides a defined closure method, making this a useful middle ground between an open utility barrel and a closed-head drum.
Limitation: The interior is non-lined. Avoid this model when the stored material requires a protective lining, and verify suitability for the particular substance and shipping use.
Readi Soil Reconditioned Burn Barrel
This used, reconditioned 55-gallon steel drum is intended for outdoor tasks such as yard-waste disposal, brush burning, and cleanup. Its listed features include a reinforced rim, industrial-grade metal construction, and a raised bottom designed to help prevent ground scorching.
Best for: Buyers looking specifically for a burn or yard-cleanup barrel. The raised-bottom design and stated outdoor use distinguish it from drums primarily described for storage or material shipping.
Limitation: It is sold as used and reconditioned, so it is not the choice for buyers who require a new drum. Follow local rules and safe practices for outdoor burning; the product features do not establish that burning is permitted at a particular location.
BayTec Open-Head Steel Drum
This 55-gallon open-head drum is made from first-quality cold-rolled steel and has a black exterior. Its removable lid gives full access to the interior, while the non-lined inside has a rust inhibitor for basic corrosion protection during storage and handling.
Best for: Buyers who need frequent interior access for filling, storage, or material handling. Choose this model over a closed-top drum when the removable lid is the main requirement.
Limitation: The listing describes only basic corrosion protection, not a lining for specific contents. Avoid assuming the rust inhibitor makes the drum suitable for water, corrosive materials, or every liquid.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Metal Barrel
Is a 55-gallon drum close enough to a 50-gallon barrel?
The products listed here have a 55-gallon capacity, rather than 50 gallons. That is a five-gallon difference, so check your available space and required capacity before ordering. If your application needs an exact 50-gallon volume, confirm the required dimensions and capacity rather than treating these options as exact substitutes.
Should you choose an open-head or closed-top drum?
An open-head drum has a removable cover that allows full access, which can make loading and handling easier. A closed-top drum has a fixed top with fittings, which may better suit compatible contents that need fitting access. Match the closure to how you will fill, empty, and secure the barrel.
Does the interior need a lining?
Some steel drums in this selection have non-lined interiors. That can matter when contents may react with bare or treated metal. Check the product details and verify compatibility with the material being stored; do not infer suitability for a particular chemical, food, or liquid from the word “steel” alone.
When is a reconditioned barrel appropriate?
Reconditioned drums can suit utility tasks where cosmetic wear or a possible residual odor is acceptable. The BayTec reconditioned listing notes possible residue and smell, while the Readi Soil drum is also identified as used and reconditioned. Choose a new or clearly suitable container when cleanliness and known prior contents are critical.
What should you verify before using a drum for shipping?
Check the specific model’s stated rating and confirm that the drum, contents, closure, and shipping method meet the requirements that apply to your situation. One listing describes UN requirements under DOT 49 CFR, and another says it is UN rated and tested. Those descriptions do not replace checking requirements for the actual material and use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these barrels exactly 50 gallons?
No. The five metal-barrel options above are listed as 55-gallon drums. They may be close-capacity alternatives, but they are not specified as 50-gallon barrels.
Which option has a removable lid?
The two BayTec open-head drums have removable covers or lids. One listing specifically states that its lid provides full access to the interior.
Which metal barrel is intended for yard waste or burning?
The Readi Soil reconditioned drum is described for yard-waste disposal, brush burning, and outdoor cleanup. The BayTec reconditioned utility barrel is also listed for burn-drum use.
Can I use a non-lined steel drum for any liquid?
No. The listings do not establish universal liquid compatibility. Check the drum’s specifications and confirm that its material and interior are suitable for the exact contents.
Are reconditioned drums new?
No. Reconditioned drums have been used. The BayTec listing notes possible scratches, residual product, and odor, so review those limitations before selecting one.