20 Repurposed IBC Tote Ideas for Home and Garden Projects
Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs), or tote tanks, are usually seen hauling liquids and chemicals in industrial settings. They re strong, stackable, and built to last but their usefulness doesn t end when the original job is done.
With a little creativity, these sturdy containers can be repurposed into clever and practical projects for your home and garden.
From animal shelters and rainwater collection systems to planters, greenhouses, and even outdoor furniture, IBC totes open up endless possibilities. Here are 20 inspiring repurposed ideas you ll want to try.
#1. Elevated Rainwater Harvesting Tower
This clever setup transforms an IBC tote into a rainwater collection system that works seamlessly with gravity.
Positioned on a sturdy wooden stand, the tote connects to roof gutters, allowing rain to flow directly inside. Elevated height gives it enough pressure to feed a garden hose or drip irrigation line without the need for a pump.
Plus, the spigot at the bottom makes it simple to draw water whenever needed. It s an eco-friendly solution that saves money on water bills while keeping gardens, flower beds, or livestock well-supplied with fresh rainwater.
#2. Elevated IBC Tote Chicken Waterer
Turning an IBC tote into a chicken waterer is a smart way to keep your flock hydrated with less daily effort.
This setup raises the tote on a sturdy wooden stand, allowing gravity to feed fresh water directly into an attached drinking bowl.
The size of the container means you won t need to refill constantly, which is a huge help if you re managing multiple birds. This practical project ensures your hens always have access to water while you enjoy a low-maintenance solution.
#3. Productive IBC Tote Raised Beds
Here s a smart transformation of IBC totes into raised garden beds, giving new life to these containers while making gardening much easier.
The totes have been cut and filled with rich soil, turning them into roomy planters for vegetables and greens. Moreover, the sturdy walls keep soil well-contained, and with good drainage added, plants thrive beautifully.
These beds are perfect for small spaces or larger gardens, allowing you to maximize growing potential in a neat, organized way.
#4. Dual IBC Tote Animal Shelter
Two IBC totes paired together and topped with a tarp make an ingenious low-cost animal shelter.
By cutting entryways into the sides and filling the interiors with straw, the space becomes warm and inviting for goats, sheep, or other small livestock.
The tarp roof bridges the two units, creating a central shaded corridor where animals can lounge out of the sun or rain. It s durable, easy to clean, and surprisingly spacious, giving animals both protection and comfort.
#5. DIY Outdoor Dog Wash Station
By cutting out two sides and smoothing the edges, the tote becomes a roomy tub that s easy for pets to step into.
You can see a drain hose at the base makes cleanup simple, while a small caddy attached to the frame keeps shampoo and cleaning supplies within reach.
Elevated off the ground, it saves you from too much bending and provides a comfortable height for washing.
#6. Compact IBC Tote Greenhouse
By cutting out one side and adding a framed door with clear panels, the tote becomes the perfect environment for nurturing delicate plants.
The enclosed space traps warmth and humidity, creating an ideal microclimate for seedlings, herbs, or exotic greenery.
Mounted on a stand, it even leaves room below for storage or water catchment. It s a practical option for small backyards or patios where space is limited, allowing you to grow fresh produce year-round with minimal effort.
#7. Covered IBC Tote Hay Feeder
This clever repurpose turns an old IBC tote into a durable hay feeder with a hinged lid. The top cover, supported by a simple wooden frame, keeps the hay dry and protected from rain or snow, ensuring animals always have access to fresh feed.
By cutting openings along the sides, goats or other livestock can easily pull out hay without wasting too much. The tote s sturdy frame provides excellent stability, even with daily use.
This design not only reduces feed loss but also makes refilling and maintenance incredibly easy for the farmer.
#8. Outdoor IBC Tote Shower Cabin
Here s a smart and budget-friendly way to enjoy outdoor showers using a repurposed IBC tote.
The tank has been transformed into a compact shower cabin, complete with ventilation panels and a wooden slat floor for drainage and comfort.
Also, a proper door gives it privacy while maintaining a rustic, practical charm. This type of setup is especially handy for farms, campsites, or off-grid living, where running water may not always be available indoors.
With a little plumbing to connect it to a water source, you ve got a sturdy, eco-friendly shower ready for daily use.
#9. IBC Tote Rainwater Harvesting System
This setup turns an IBC tote into a practical rainwater collection system, perfect for sustainable living. Positioned under a downspout, the tote captures runoff from the roof and stores it for later use in gardens or cleaning tasks.
It s elevated on sturdy cinder blocks to improve water flow and make filling containers easier. A simple hose connection allows for controlled access to the stored water.
Not only does this system help conserve resources, but it also cuts down on utility bills while giving you a reliable supply of fresh rainwater.
#10. Practical IBC Tote Firewood Holder
Turning an IBC tote into a firewood storage bin is an incredibly practical way to repurpose it.
By cutting away part of the plastic lining, the cage structure is left to act as a strong frame for neatly stacking logs.
The design keeps the wood off the ground, reducing moisture and rot, while still allowing airflow for proper drying. It s easy to load and access, and the tote s durability means it can handle heavy use year after year.
#11. DIY IBC Tote Septic System
Why not turning IBC totes into a homemade septic system? Buried underground, the totes are connected with piping and fitted with ventilation stacks to allow gases to escape.
Soil is layered over the tops, securing them in place while keeping the system discreet and functional. It s a budget-friendly alternative for remote cabins, off-grid living, or farms where traditional septic installation may be costly.
With careful setup and maintenance, these tanks can provide a reliable waste management solution while giving new life to repurposed materials.
#12. IBC Tote Hay Feeder
This clever hay feeder uses a repurposed IBC tote to make livestock feeding simple and efficient.
By cutting away part of the plastic and leaving the metal cage exposed, the design creates a sturdy frame that holds hay securely while allowing animals to pull out just what they need.
The open-bottom style also reduces waste, as fallen hay collects neatly for easy access. It s durable enough to handle daily use and weather, making it a smart, low-cost solution for small farms or homesteads.
#13. Mobile Water Hauling Trailer
Here s a clever use of an IBC tote, mounted securely on a sturdy trailer frame to create a portable water hauling system.
With large, durable tires and a hitch for towing, this setup is perfect for farms, homesteads, or rural properties where water needs to be transported across uneven ground.
Additionally, the IBC tote provides a large storage capacity, and the mobility of the trailer makes it simple to move water for livestock, gardens, or even construction projects.
#14. IBC Tote Chicken Tractor
This project shows how an IBC tote can be repurposed into a mobile chicken tractor that provides both safety and mobility for your flock. B
y cutting away part of the tote and attaching a wire enclosure, it creates a secure outdoor run connected to a sheltered area inside the tote.
The enclosed design keeps chickens safe from predators while allowing them to forage on fresh grass each time it s moved. It s lightweight enough to reposition across your yard or pasture, offering a sustainable way to give hens variety in their diet and a clean living space.
#15. DIY Garden Hot Tub
This is a creative transformation of an IBC tote into a cozy outdoor hot tub. The builder has reinforced the top with wooden framing and added decking around the edge for comfort and style.
Inside, a wooden bench provides seating so you can relax while soaking.
With the addition of a heater or even a simple wood-fired coil system, this becomes a functional hot tub perfect for backyards.
#16. Outdoor IBC Tote Sink Bar
How about repurposing of an IBC tote into a fully functional outdoor sink and bar station?
The tote s frame provides a sturdy base, while a double stainless steel sink has been fitted into the top, complete with faucets for washing and rinsing.
Bonus, the surrounding counter space, finished with wooden panels, makes it practical for prepping food, cleaning garden harvests, or hosting outdoor gatherings.
#17. Multi-Level Goat Playhouse Shelter
This setup takes IBC totes and turns them into an imaginative goat playground and shelter. The bottoms of the totes are cut out to create cozy dens, while one is stacked on top to form a second-story lookout.
Also, a simple wooden ramp connects the levels, letting the goats climb and explore, which keeps them active and entertained.
The addition of wooden roofing provides shade and weather protection, making it practical as well as fun.
#18. IBC Tote Water Reservoir System
This project transforms a cut-down IBC tote into a functional water reservoir that connects seamlessly with a buried PVC piping system.
It s an ingenious way to ensure a steady water supply for livestock, gardens, or even small-scale irrigation.
The tote holds a significant volume of water while the piping directs it exactly where it s needed, reducing manual effort and waste.
#19. IBC Tote Outdoor Toilet Cabin
This creative repurposing of an IBC tote transforms it into a functional outdoor toilet, perfect for farms, campsites, or off-grid living.
By cutting open one side and adding a wooden door, the tote becomes a compact cabin that offers privacy and shelter. Inside, a raised wooden platform with a standard toilet seat makes it comfortable and practical to use.
Moreover, the interior paneling adds a cozy, finished look that feels less industrial.
#20. Cozy Dog House from IBC Tote
Wow, an IBC tote can be transformed into a sturdy and weather-resistant dog house with just a few modifications.
By cutting out an entryway and giving the container a fresh coat of green paint, the structure blends naturally into outdoor spaces while providing a secure hideaway for your pup.
Inside, you can add blankets or straw for extra comfort. The thick plastic walls offer insulation against wind and rain, making it suitable for year-round use.
