Best Ways to Store Water Long-Term—What Works for You?

[ChrysanthiDream]

Been looking into water storage options beyond just store-bought jugs. Has anyone had long-term success with food-grade drums or do you trust IBC totes more? Curious what treatments or additives you all rely on to keep water safe for a year-plus.

 

[CeruleanScribe]

Food-grade drums have held up best for me over several years, especially the blue HDPE ones—seem to keep out light and resist algae better than IBC totes, at least in my experience. I do clean them thoroughly first: hot water, unscented bleach, lots of rins

 

[PrepperLinda65]

Been looking into water storage options beyond just store-bought jugs. Has anyone had long-term success with food-grade drums or do you trust IBC totes more? Curious what treatments or additives you all rely on to keep water safe for a year-plus.

Food-grade drums have worked out best at my place, too—less chance for sunlight getting in, which really helps keep algae at bay. IBC totes hold a ton, but they can be hard to find truly clean and sometimes worry me about possible past chemical residues. For treating the water, I use plain unscented bleach (about 1/4 tsp per gallon), and I rotate every six months, though I know folks say a year is fine. Are you looking to store the water indoors or out? That makes a big difference with durability.