Best Watering Can – Ultimate Buyers Guide 2024

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Best Watering Can

It really doesn’t matter the size of your garden – chases are you are going to need a watering can. It could even be that you don’t have a garden at all but a number of house plants that need regular watering! The best watering can is going to be there whenever you need it and will allow you to water all of your plants quickly and easily.

Not only can it be used to water your plants through the summer (or the winter!) when there are dry spells, but they can also be used to provide your plants with nutrients and feeds to help them to grow the best that they can.

The problem with watering cans being so popular is that there are so many to choose from! With literally hundreds on the market, making the right choice can appear really tricky but we are here to help make the process easier! We have found some of the best watering cans and the key features that you need to consider to help you choose!

Best Pick – Cesun Metal Watering Can

Cesun Metal Watering Can - Vintage Galvanised Steel Outdoor Watering Can with Removable Rose for Garden Plants (3.8 L/1 Gal, Zinc)
  • This vintage metal watering can is both functional and visually appealing for indoor and outdoor watering.
  • Long-lasting, galvanized watering can will not rust from rain and lasts a long time when properly stored.
  • Comfortable rounded folding top handle and side handle make carrying and pouring easy.
  • Control water flow with the detachable rose featuring a no-leak rubber O-ring seal.
  • 3.8 litres/1 gallon capacity lets you make quick work of watering thirsty plants or use it in place of a vase for a rustic chic bouquet.

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

In A Hurry?

If your indoor plants are looking rather tired and dry or your outdoor plants are trying to survive some warm summer days then this is the part of the article that you need to read! Here you will find all the essential information that you need to consider. 

Best watering Can Sizes

One of the first things that you need to consider is the size of the watering can that is going to be right for you. Don’t forget that the size doesn’t always directly impact on the capacity of water that the watering can is able to hold – so you need to make sure to check both the overall size and capacity together! 

For larger bedding areas or big plants you are going to need to work with at least a 10 litre capacity if you want to avoid filling up your watering can after every plant! It is worth bearing in mind that this is going to be much heavier to carry, so if this is going to be a problem for you then you may prefer a smaller watering can and just accept making more trips to the tap. If you have smaller bedding areas or just a couple of inside plants then a watering can of around 5 litres is going to be plenty big enough. We found that most capacities of watering cans are going to range from around 5 litres up to 15 litres. 

TOP TIP: If you have young children that are going to help you look after the plants then it may even be worth looking for a child-sized watering can. This will be much smaller and therefore easier for them to carry, which will encourage them to join in much more! They also come in a range of fun designs and colours!

Best Watering Can Materials

The two main choices that you are going to be able to choose from with a watering can is metal or plastic. Metal is usually going to be longer lasting and is obviously going to be better for the environment, but plastic is going to be lighter and cheaper! We do prefer the look of a metal watering can as just feel that it offers a more traditional finish that will allow you to leave your watering can on show whenever you are not using it, but plastic models are perfectly up to the task so if you are looking for practicality and to save a little money then opt for plastic. 

You will find a range of watering cans that actually come made of brass. These have a really attractive finish and are perfect if you are wanting a certain “look” from your watering can. They will usually be more expensive, so this is something to consider, but are well worth the money for the appearance and durability qualities. 

TOP TIP: If you do decide that a metal watering can is right for you then galvanised steel is probably going to be the best option as this is going to remain rust free for a long time and be exceptionally durable. 

Best Watering Can Appearances

If your watering can is going to be hidden away in the shed then you may not be bothered about what it looks like. But, more and more you will find watering cans actually being used as a practical feature both in the home and out! If you have a spot in mind for your watering can, then appearance is going to matter so keep reading! 

The first thing you need to think about is the colour that you want for your watering can. If you have decided on a metal option then you will probably find that it is either silver or black, but there are definitely going to be other options available to you! You will find that most watering cans are going to be traditional colours, such as browns, blacks and greens, however there are now a wide range of brightly coloured watering cans to match any home!

Watering Can Rose

Don’t get confused – we aren’t talking about the plant itself! The watering can rose is the nozzle that is on the top of the spout. These are going to be designed in all different ways but they are essential if you are trying to provide a gentle spray to a wider area. 

Make sure to check the size of the holes as this is going to determine how much water you are pouring at once. Smaller holes are going to allow a slower flow of water so are better for plants that don’t need a lot of watering! Not only this but delicate plants or seedlings aren’t going to be damaged by a heavier flow of water. However, larger holes are going to allow you to get the job done quicker for plants that can cope with more water! 

It is worth mentioning that if you are looking for an indoor watering can it may not be a good idea to opt for one with a rose/nozzle on the end! This is because it is going to be much harder to control the direction that the water is heading so could leave a mess on the floor if you are working with smaller pots!

TOP TIP: If your watering can doesn’t come with a rose then look out for one that is going to be compatible with a universal rose. These will be made from rubber so should fit on most watering cans but it is always worth checking for! 

Best Budget – Ward 6.5L Budget Watering Can

Ward 6.5L Budget Space Watering Can - Green
  • Medium Capacity
  • Easy to fill
  • Fine, gentle rose included
  • Slimline style
  • Value for money

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

The Best Watering Cans Have…

Once you have looked at the main features of different watering cans, you need to consider the features that are going to make it stand out from the rest. Here are some of the features that we would recommend thinking about before you buy…

  • Spout size – It is always worth checking the spout size on your watering can. A longer spout is going to make it much easier for you to reach high up places such as hanging baskets. 
  • Handle – Make sure that the handle is going to be easy and comfortable to work with, particularly as you are going to be using this almost every day at some points of the year. Look out for ones made from “warmer” materials, such as wood and rubber as this will be more comfortable to work with. We would also recommend looking to see how large the handle is, particularly if you have bigger hands! 
  • Double handle – We love watering cans that offer a double handle design – one on the top and one on the side of the watering can. This makes it much easier for you to use one handle to carry your watering can to wherever you need it, but then use the other handle to pour the water from the watering can. 
  • Balcony Watering Can – Simply put, if you have a limited number of plants and space then a balcony watering can is going to be exactly the same as a normal watering can only smaller. They are perfect for if you don’t need a lot of water at one time and don’t have a lot of space either! 
  • Fill lines – Some watering cans are going to come with measuring lines, as you would find with a measuring jug. This is a great way for you to judge how much water you are giving to each plant, which is essential for some more delicate plants. Not only this, but it means that you can add liquid feeds directly into the watering can and dilute accurately. 
  • Automatic Watering Systems – If you are struggling to find the time to water your plants then it may be a better option for you to choose an automatic watering system. These can be set to water your plants at different times to save you the hassle of remembering to water them. 

How To Best Water Your Plants 

For many, it can seem like a bit of a mystery trying to work out how to keep plants alive, thriving and in good health! Here are some tips to make keeping them growing that little bit easier…

  • The best time to water your plants is going to be in the morning, this is before the sun is shining directly on the plants which can cause burning, but is also when the plants will start to use the water. Evening watering is fine as well but you are risking the soil surface staying damp which can attract slugs, snails and mildew diseases. 
  • The larger and leafier a plant is, the more water that it is going to need – as a general rule. But it is worth remembering that plants in pots are also going to need more water than plants in the ground as they don’t have the benefit of natural drainage and water flow. 
  • Sandy soils are going to need more frequent watering (in smaller amounts) than clay soil as clay soil can hold more water – although plants do actually find it easier to take water in from sandy soils. 
  • If your plant is growing closer to a wall or a border, this may mean that its roots are restricted and if that is the case then you will need to water the plant more. 
  • As a general rule, outdoor plants are going to need less water in winter than they would in the summer. However, there are still some plants that will need watering over the winter if you have a particularly dry spell. 

If you have a much larger space with considerable plants that you are wanting to water or feed then it may be possible that a knapsack sprayer could be better suited to the job. Here are some of our favourite knapsack sprayers.

Best of the Rest

No products found.

WhaleLife Watering Can, Plastic Watering Can for Garden, Detachable Shower Rose Head Long Spout Water Can for Indoor and Outdoor (1 Gallon, 4L, Green)
  • [ERGONOMIC DESIGN] Reasonable Handle Design, Feel Comfortable, The Use Of The Hand On The Top Of Watering Can for Indoor Plants, Be Carried In The Middle Of The Hand, Water Flowers Do Not Need To Bend, Indoor And Outdoor Can Be Used. Warm Color Vintage Design.
  • [UPGRADE MATERIAL IS MORE ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLY] This Watering Cans Upgrade Environmental Friendly Material, The Body Of The Kettle Selected High Strength Quality Pp Material, Strong And Durable, Enough To Withstand The Wear And Tear Of Daily Use. It Doesn't Rust As Much As A Metal Sprinkling Can, And It Stays Strong And Durable.
  • [SPRINKLER DESIGN] Made Of Top Grade Plastic (Removable) For Steady Water Flow. Dismountable Plant Watering Can Be Used To Water Flowers Pot At Any Time. Saving Time And Energy, No Water Leakage.
  • [PERFECT SIZE, MORE WATER CAPACITY] When Full, The Spout Can Hold 1 Gallon/about 4 Liters. Its Sizer Is 15.4”(length) X 5.1"(bottom Dia.) X 8.7"(height) More Balanced Center Of Gravity When Placed, Stable And Not Easy To Topple. Garden Plant Watering Can Store More Water And Water More Plants.
  • [WE CARE HOW YOU FEEL] Buy Indoor Watering Cans for House Plants, Free Gfits The Houseplants Accessories Multi-purpose Light Working Gloves To Enjoy Your Garden Life . Green, Khaki And Army Green Are Optional.

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

CUQOO 6L Watering Can with Detachable Sprinkler Rose Head - Lightweight Indoor Watering Can for House Plants - Multipurpose Watering Can Outdoor for Watering Garden Plants, Flowers, Hanging Plants
  • 𝟔𝐋 𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐆𝐄 𝐂𝐀𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘: CUQOO watering can indoor Measuring 40 cm length by 11 cm width by 31 cm height with 0.7 Pounds weight. These watering cans boast a spacious 6-liter capacity, allowing great water storage and significantly reducing the need for frequent refills and saving you hours over its lifespan of walking back and forth from garden to hose to fill it back up.
  • 𝐃𝐔𝐑𝐎𝐁𝐔𝐒𝐓 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐔𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍: Our house plant watering can is crafted from high-quality, weather-resistant plastic, this watering can is built to withstand the elements, ensuring long-lasting use in any outdoor environment. This outdoor and indoor plant watering can also come with a firm and strong handle to help you control the water flow.
  • 𝐌𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐈𝐏𝐔𝐑𝐏𝐎𝐒𝐄 𝐔𝐒𝐄: The water can is designed to fulfill all your gardening needs, whether indoors or outdoors. Perfect for watering garden plants, flowers, and hanging plants with ease. Whether you're tending to your garden beds, flower pots, or hanging baskets, this multipurpose garden watering can has got you covered.
  • 𝐏𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐈𝐒𝐄 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐋𝐄 𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆: This watering can rose features a long Sprinkler ensuring a consistent and gentle flow of water, preventing splashing, and enabling you to deliver the perfect amount of water to each plant. This precise watering mechanism promotes plant health and minimizes water wastage, making this large watering ideal for delicate plants and newly sprouted seedlings.
  • 𝐃𝐄𝐓𝐀𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐁𝐋𝐄 𝐒𝐏𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐊𝐋𝐄𝐑 𝐑𝐎𝐒𝐄 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐃: The watering can rose head is equipped with precisely punched holes, ensuring a uniform sprinkle when watering delicate plants. Additionally, it can be effortlessly removed to facilitate faster watering of larger plants, providing flexibility to suit your specific gardening requirements.

Last update on 2024-04-19 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can you put plant feed in a watering can? 

Yes! For most types of plant feed you will be able to add them to your watering can. Just make sure that they dissolve down completely, otherwise you could find them blocking smaller holes on the rose of the watering can. One thing you may have to do is measure out the quantity of feed first, as this can be hard to judge on some watering cans.

How do I know if my plant needs watering?

If you are struggling to get as much growth as you want from your plant, or maybe it is struggling to produce flowers, then this is a sign that you need to water your plants more. Another is if the leaves start to look dull or change position and shape (particularly if they start to curl). Always check the health of your plant as well as the dampness of the soil if you want a true indicator of how much water your plant needs. 

Do I need to clean a watering can?

Yes! You may be surprised to hear that you do need to clean your watering can occasionally. This will help to stop limescale, dirt and debris from “contaminating” the water that you then put on your plants!

What size of watering can do I need?

For a small to medium plant collection you will only need a watering can that can hold about 1 gallon of water. However, for larger plant collections, whether indoor or outdoor, you will need closer to a 2 gallon watering can.

About Thomas Paxton 368 Articles
Hey there, I'm Thomas Paxton, your Tool Guru with a Twist! I've been knee-deep in the world of tools since I was a little tinkerer in my dad's shed. Now, I'm running my own website where I share my passion for tools and gardening products through buyers guides and insightful tips. I've got the knowledge and experience to break down complex concepts into simple, easy-to-understand language. I purchased Tools Review from Mike Jones at the start of 2023, he has done a sterling job of building the site and I hope I can continue in his success! When I'm not writing guides, you'll find me in my garden or garage, putting my skills to work and pushing the boundaries of creativity. So, whether you're a pro or just starting out, join me on this adventure, and let's conquer DIY projects together!

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