8 Best Watering Cans of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
A good watering can is a must in the garden, and our top picks won't disappoint.
Stacy Tornio
Our Top Watering Can Picks
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Tested by Stacy Tornio
When we first set out to test watering cans, we thought, "Really, how different can they be?" But it only took a few trials to see just how different one could be from the next. Sure, all watering cans help you water your plants, but details like the size of the opening, the comfort of the grip, and the flow of water can dramatically change your gardening experience. It turns out, watering cans have plenty of nuances that are worth exploring. Finding the perfect match isn't just about utility — it's about discovering the right one that you'll want to use for years. And two of our top picks are on sale for Prime Day July 16 and 17.
Stacy Tornio
How We Tested
We began with a diverse selection of 15 watering cans, each differing in size and shape. Our initial evaluation focused on their design and how they felt when picked up. We examined factors like their overall durability and the materials they were made from. We also assessed their capacity, which helped determine whether they were better suited for indoor or outdoor use.
During the hands-on testing, we paid close attention to the water flow. We were looking for a consistent and manageable stream that could accurately target the areas we wanted to water. The comfort of the handle was crucial as well. We preferred those with double handles — one on the back and another on top — as they offered easier handling and control. In testing watering cans, no single aspect was the deciding factor. Although it might seem like a simple gardening tool, finding the right one that combines great design, functionality and comfort can make a significant difference.
- Two handle options for easier lifting and pouring
- Lid to keep water in without splashing
- Large capacity for efficient watering
- Limited color options available
- A larger size option would be nice
This watering can is crafted from thickened PP resin, making it light, yet durable. Its walls are designed to resist falls and compression. The ergonomic dual-handle design ensures a comfortable grip. When filled with water, the top handle is perfect for lifting and pouring. You can also use the adjustable nozzle, providing a gentle, rain-like sprinkle to protect delicate plants or a steady stream for larger plants. Simply turn or remove the nozzle to select between the two. It's the perfect all-around can that you'll have for years.
- Material Resin, plastic
- Weight 1.5 pounds
- Dimensions 10.8" x 24.8" x 11"
- Capacity 1.5 gallon
- Spout Type Both stream and shower
- Comfortable handle design
- Multiple colors to choose from
- Good water flow
- Smaller capacity
From the moment we started testing, this one caught our eye with its standout design and overall elegance. The unique handle is not only an aesthetic highlight but also comfortable to hold. In practice, it performed well for indoor watering, with a spout that worked well both low and high. The ability to change out the spout for different plant sizes was also great and made it more versatile. It's a stylish yet practical choice for anyone who values both form and functionality in their gardening tools.
- Material Plastic
- Weight 7.4 ounces
- Dimensions 12.6" x 6.69" x 4.53"
- Capacity 2 liters
- Spout Type Both stream and shower
- Beautiful design
- Holds a lot of water
- Smooth water flow
- Expensive
- Heavy
If you have an extended budget and want to experience luxury in a watering can, then this might be the one you've been looking for. This watering can, from the well-known English brand Haws, has been built with durable galvanized steel. A word of caution: The two-gallon outdoor model is notably heavy, especially when filled. It's hard not to love its classy, elegant design, though. Plus, the water flow from the shower head is nice and smooth. Or remove the head for a steady, narrow stream. Remember this can is a small investment, but gardeners have been loving it and trusting it for years.
- Material Galvanized steel, brass
- Weight Not listed
- Dimensions 25.5" x 8.5" x 15"
- Capacity 2 gallons
- Spout Type Shower and stream
- Attractive design
- Perfect for gifting
- Great spout design
- Small overall
This small and charming metal waterer combines functionality with style, making it perfect for small houseplants. If you have a small space, it's perfect for you. Crafted from stainless steel with a wooden handle, it's both cute and durable. This little can has a sleek, modern design in matte black, making it not only a practical tool but also a decorative element for your home. It would make an excellent gift, and you could even use it as a cute little planter.
- Material Metal, wood
- Weight 15 ounces
- Dimensions 10.5" x 4" x 5.5"
- Capacity 35 ounces
- Spout Type Stream
- Ideal capacity for outdoor use
- Sturdy components
- Multiple handles
- Limited colors
Despite it being a pretty large capacity watering can, it's pretty light overall. It features a versatile nozzle system with a detachable stainless steel shower head to distribute water evenly. This means you can have a rain-like stream for delicate plants or a direct stream for deeper watering. The long spout allows you to be precise in your watering without having to stoop or stretch. It's a great waterer you can count on to last for many years.
- Material Plastic, resin, stainless steel
- Weight 14.4 ounces
- Dimensions 13.64" x 5.13" x 10.09"
- Capacity 2 gallons
- Spout Type Shower and stream
- Stainless steel build
- Sleek, modern design
- Lightweight
- Small capacity
This sleek stainless steel watering can is perfect for precise, spill-free watering. It's ideal for reaching into tight spaces without worrying about spilling. The semi-open top design makes refills easy, while the ergonomic handle and lightweight build are good to sneak in through low-hanging leaves. Its stylish, hand-polished steel finish not only resists scratches, corrosion and tarnishing, but it also blends nicely with any decor.
- Material Stainless steel
- Weight 11" x 4.5" x 6.5"
- Dimensions 13.2 ounces
- Capacity 30 ounces
- Spout Type Stream
- Variety of color options
- Comfortable handle
- Easy to pour
- Could have a larger capacity
Enhance your gardening with this beautifully designed watering can that's perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. It features an extra-long spout, and the one-piece construction makes it guaranteed to be leak-proof. The shower head is also a no-leak design, but you can also remove it for a direct stream. Made from shatterproof plastic, you can count on it lasting for years. One of the best parts of this one is that it's available in many different colors, so pick your favorite shade. This one is also one of our top picks to give as a gift.
- Material Plastic
- Weight 8.9 Ounces
- Dimensions 14.17" x 11.02" x 5.08"
- Capacity 1 gallon
- Spout Type Shower and stream
- Double handle
- Array of color options
- Beautiful design
- Not rust-resistant
This high-quality metal watering is both durable and elegant — the perfect classic watering can for any garden. With a capacity of one gallon, it's a great option for both indoors and outdoors. The double handle design enhances ease of use, providing a comfortable grip and better control during watering. This is especially helpful when the can is full. It has a nice removable spout to allow you to switch between stream and shower. You can't get any more classic than this.
- Material Steel, metal, copper
- Weight 1.72 pounds
- Dimensions 7.5" x 8.5" x 13"
- Capacity 1 gallon
- Spout Type Shower and stream
What to Look for When Buying a Watering Can
- Capacity and Size: When choosing a watering can, consider the capacity and size based on your specific needs and the size of your space. If you have many plants or a large garden, a larger capacity might be essential to avoid frequent refills. However, if you're looking for convenience and ease of use, especially in smaller spaces, opting for a lighter, smaller can could be the better choice.
- Material: Plastic cans are resilient and well-suited for outdoor use due to their weather resistance, while metal cans offer a classic look and feel that many gardeners appreciate for their style and sturdiness.
- Spout Type: If a switchable spout isn't available, which is ideal, ensure the can has either a shower or stream option that aligns with your specific gardening requirements.
- Ease of Use: Pay special attention to the grip and handle design. Ensure there's ample space and the handle is shaped in a way that feels comfortable in your hand.
Stacy Tornio
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clean a watering can?
To keep your watering can in top condition, regularly rinse it with warm water to remove dirt and debris. For a deeper clean, especially for metal cans, you can use a mild soap solution, rinse thoroughly, and dry it to prevent rust and buildup.
Is it better to use a watering can or a hose?
Watering cans offer more precision and control, making them ideal for delicate plants and smaller gardens where you want to avoid overwatering. They're also better for indoor plants or container gardens. On the other hand, a hose is more efficient for watering large areas.
How big should my watering can be?
The ideal size of your watering can should be based on the size of your garden and the type of plants you're tending. For small gardens, indoor plants or balcony settings, a watering can with a capacity of one to two gallons is usually sufficient and easy to handle. For larger gardens with more extensive watering needs, a can that holds up to three gallons or more can reduce the number of trips to refill while still being manageable to carry.
Stacy Tornio
