20 DIY Recycled 5-gallon Bucket Projects For Home And Garden
You might not think much about those plain 5-gallon buckets sitting in your garage, but they re full of potential. With a bit of imagination, they can become creative garden planters, handy storage containers, or even unique outdoor furniture.
Instead of tossing them aside, you can turn these sturdy buckets into something both practical and eye-catching. They re easy to find, affordable, and strong enough to handle countless DIY transformations.
Once you start reusing them, you ll wonder why you ever threw one away. Get inspired by these 20 clever bucket projects that bring function, fun, and personality to your home and garden.
#1 Bucket Garden Container
Transforming a 5-gallon bucket into a garden container is one of the simplest and most satisfying ways to grow fresh produce right on your porch or patio.
These buckets are deep enough for vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, or herbs to develop strong roots. Drill a few drainage holes at the bottom, fill them with nutrient-rich soil, and plant your favorite seedlings.
You can decorate the outer surface with paint or wrap it in jute for a rustic touch. Water regularly and place them where they can soak up plenty of sunlight.
Within weeks, you ll have a thriving mini garden that proves even small spaces can grow big rewards.
#2 Garden Tool Storage
A 5-gallon bucket makes the perfect portable storage for your garden tools and small supplies. It keeps everything from gloves and trowels to seed packets, neatly contained and ready to go.
Simply add a sturdy lid to keep out dirt and moisture, and you ve got a weatherproof caddy that can travel anywhere in your yard. You can even wrap the outside with fabric or paint it for a more polished look.
For added convenience, place a small cushion on top to turn it into a garden seat. This little bucket becomes a helper that saves you time hunting for tools while keeping your gardening space organized.
#3 DIY Planter Umbrella Stand
This clever DIY lets you create a stable umbrella stand that doubles as a planter using a simple 5-gallon bucket. Start by filling the bucket with quick-setting concrete and insert a PVC pipe in the center before it hardens.
Once it s dry, remove the bucket or keep it as is for a sturdy base. You can paint the exterior to match your patio decor or wrap it in burlap for a rustic touch.
Fill the top with soil and colorful flowers to hide the concrete and bring it to life. This project adds both shade and style to your outdoor space with just a few basic materials.
#4 DIY Bucket Ottoman
Turn an ordinary 5-gallon bucket into a chic ottoman that looks straight out of a boutique. Wrap the exterior tightly with thick jute rope, securing it with hot glue for a cozy, natural texture.
Then, create a padded seat by cutting a round wooden lid to size, covering it with soft fabric and foam. Attach the lid securely, and your new ottoman is ready to serve as extra seating or a footrest.
You can even lift the lid to store blankets or magazines inside. It s a stylish, multi-functional piece that blends rustic charm with modern practicality.
#5 Shed Organization
Keep your shed clutter-free by turning 5-gallon buckets into mounted storage bins. Secure each bucket horizontally to the wall using sturdy brackets or screws, leaving the opening accessible for easy reach.
This setup is perfect for storing camping gear, garden tools, or coiled hoses without taking up floor space. You can even label each bucket to quickly find what you need.
For a cleaner look, match the bucket color to your shed s interior theme. This simple system transforms unused wall space into an efficient and tidy storage solution that keeps everything organized and visible.
#6 Strawberry Planters
Grow your own juicy strawberries using simple 5-gallon buckets turned into vertical planters. Drill several holes around each bucket for the plants, making sure they re spaced evenly for good airflow and sunlight.
Fill the bucket with a rich potting mix, then plant strawberries in both the top and side holes. Add a PVC pipe with drilled holes down the center for even watering.
Place your buckets in a sunny spot where the plants can thrive and cascade beautifully. It s an easy, space-saving way to enjoy fresh berries right from your patio or balcony.
#7 Upside Down Tomato Plants
Growing tomatoes doesn t have to take up ground space, you can hang them right from a bucket. Cut a small hole at the bottom of a 5-gallon bucket and gently pull your tomato plant through it so the stem hangs downward.
Fill the bucket with soil and compost, keeping the roots covered and secure. Hang it from a sturdy hook in a sunny spot where the vines can dangle freely.
Water from the top, letting gravity distribute moisture evenly. This clever method keeps pests away, improves air circulation, and gives you beautiful, easy-to-harvest tomatoes.
#8 Outdoor Storage Solution
Keep your garden tools neatly stored and easy to carry with this colorful bucket organizer. Wrap a fabric tool apron or sewing pockets around a 5-gallon bucket, giving each tool its own spot.
Store gloves, pruning shears, trowels, and twine in the outer pockets while keeping larger items like shovels or soil bags inside.
You can even add a padded seat lid on top to use it as a stool while you work. The bucket s handle makes it simple to move around the yard. It s a cheerful and practical way to stay organized while gardening in style.
#9 Bucket Seat
Turn a few spare 5-gallon buckets into colorful and practical seating for your home or outdoor space. Simply paint the buckets in bright hues and top them with cushioned lids covered in patterned fabric.
The lids can be made using plywood circles padded with foam and fabric for comfort. You can even store small items like toys or craft supplies inside the buckets for added functionality.
These bucket seats are lightweight, easy to move, and perfect for casual gatherings or play areas. It s a cheerful, budget-friendly project that adds both charm and convenience to your space.
#10 DIY Side Table
This modern and minimalist side table is crafted entirely from a 5-gallon bucket. Paint the bucket in a neutral tone, then decorate it with simple geometric patterns or washi tape for extra flair.
Attach three wooden legs to the base using screws or epoxy glue to give it a mid-century look. Place a round wooden top or the original bucket lid on it to create a smooth surface.
It s the perfect spot to hold a small plant, a book, or your morning coffee. Stylish, sturdy, and incredibly affordable, it s a smart addition to any cozy corner.
#11 Houseplant Pot
Transform a simple 5-gallon bucket into a stylish planter that looks like it came straight from a boutique. Wrap the outside with natural jute rope or woven fabric to give it a cozy, textured finish.
Place it on a wooden plant stand for a clean, elevated look that complements any decor style. Drill a few drainage holes at the bottom before adding soil and your favorite indoor plant.
You can customize the pattern or color to match your room s palette. This easy project turns a plain bucket into a sophisticated statement piece for your home.
#12 Outdoor Bucket Lamp
Give your patio or backyard a warm, ambient glow with this creative bucket lamp idea. All you need is a 5-gallon bucket, a hanging light kit, and a soft LED bulb.
Cut a small hole at the bottom for the cord, then hang it upside down to create a modern, glowing pendant light. The plastic diffuses the light beautifully, casting a gentle, cozy radiance.
You can even paint the bucket in any color to match your outdoor decor. It s a simple, budget-friendly lighting solution that turns ordinary materials into something surprisingly elegant.
#13 Sit and Sip Beverage Bucket
This clever DIY turns an ordinary 5-gallon bucket into the ultimate backyard essential. Simply add a cushioned, removable lid to create a comfy seat, then fill the inside with ice and your favorite drinks.
Use waterproof vinyl to customize the exterior with names or fun labels for a personal touch. It s perfect for BBQs, camping trips, or relaxing evenings outdoors.
You can easily carry it anywhere thanks to the bucket s sturdy handle. Functional, portable, and fun, it s a two-in-one creation that keeps you cool and comfortable all at once.
#14 5 Gallon Bucket Stool
This sleek 5-gallon bucket stool combines simplicity with functionality. You can turn a plain bucket into a stylish seat by adding a cushioned top and painting the surface in a smooth, glossy finish.
Wrap a layer of rope or jute near the base for a subtle, rustic accent. It s lightweight, durable, and works great for extra seating indoors or out on the porch.
To make one, cut foam to fit the lid, cover it with fabric, and secure it tightly using glue or a staple gun. It s a quick weekend project that blends comfort with charm.
#15 5-Gallon Bucket Swing
Bring a playful touch to your backyard with this adorable bucket swing. Cut the sides of a 5-gallon bucket into a rounded seat shape, making sure to smooth the edges for safety.
Drill holes for the ropes and thread them securely to hang it from a sturdy tree branch or swing frame. It s perfect for little ones to enjoy some fresh air while you relax nearby.
You can even paint the bucket in cheerful colors to make it more inviting. Simple, fun, and surprisingly durable, this swing adds charm and laughter to your outdoor space.
#16 Bucket Chair
This DIY bucket chair is a cheerful and creative project that adds a personal touch to any space. Cut out part of a 5-gallon bucket to form a backrest, then smooth the edges to make it safe and comfortable.
Add a colorful cushion inside to bring comfort and charm. You can personalize it with paint, stickers, or your child s name to make it uniquely theirs.
It s lightweight and easy to move, perfect for a playroom or porch. Fun, practical, and adorable, this chair turns an ordinary bucket into something kids will love sitting in.
#17 Toy Storage Idea
Turn your old 5-gallon buckets into bright, wall-mounted toy storage cubbies that kids will adore. Cut each bucket in half, smooth the edges, and paint them in cheerful colors to match your playroom theme.
Mount them securely to the wall to create a playful display for dolls, stuffed animals, or small toys. You can even line the interiors with patterned paper or fabric for extra flair.
This design keeps the floor clear and makes cleanup simple. It s a smart and stylish way to organize your child s favorite things while adding color to the room.
#18 DIY Hanging Planter
If you want to maximize small spaces, this hanging planter idea is just what you need. By turning 5-gallon buckets into suspended gardens, you can grow herbs, strawberries, or cascading flowers with ease.
Drill drainage holes at the bottom, attach sturdy hangers, and fill them with soil and your favorite plants. Hang them on a metal stand or porch beam to bring greenery to eye level.
The vertical design saves space and keeps plants safe from pests. It s an effortless way to add a lush touch to your outdoor area without taking up ground space.
#19 Compost Bucket
Give your kitchen scraps a second life with this simple compost bucket idea. A 5-gallon bucket makes an excellent small-scale compost bin for patios or garages.
Drill several holes around the sides and bottom to allow airflow, then layer in fruit peels, coffee grounds, and dry leaves. Keep the lid on to control odor and stir the contents every few days.
Over time, you ll have rich compost perfect for feeding your plants. It s an easy, eco-friendly project that helps reduce waste while improving your garden soil naturally.
#20 Garden Hose Storage
Keep your garden hose neat and untangled with this clever bucket storage idea. Simply mount a 5-gallon bucket sideways to a wall or fence, leaving enough space for the hose to wrap around it.
You can drill a hole in the bottom to thread the hose through for easy use. The inside of the bucket doubles as a handy space to store sprayers or small watering tools.
Paint the bucket to match your shed or garden décor for a more polished look. It s a quick, budget-friendly fix that keeps your outdoor area tidy and organized.