Nothing’s worse than rainy days to damper our clothes (and soul) and shock us into autumn.

Take advantage of the rain falling outside and use it to your advantage.

I’m talking rain barrels. Even as it’s getting cooler.

How to Use a Rain Barrel

• Place a barrel or bucket on your roof or side of your house to collect the rainwater.
• Use the water to hydrate your plants, lawns and even washing off outdoor equipment (think shovels & rakes).
• You don’t need a huge rain barrel: smaller buckets will do for smaller homes.

Readers, do you have any creative rain barrel techniques to share?

Photo: Philly Water Sheds

array(1) {
  [0]=>
  object(WP_Term)#12741 (10) {
    ["term_id"]=>
    int(3203)
    ["name"]=>
    string(10) "Quick Tips"
    ["slug"]=>
    string(10) "quick-tips"
    ["term_group"]=>
    int(0)
    ["term_taxonomy_id"]=>
    int(897)
    ["taxonomy"]=>
    string(8) "post_tag"
    ["description"]=>
    string(0) ""
    ["parent"]=>
    int(0)
    ["count"]=>
    int(60)
    ["filter"]=>
    string(3) "raw"
  }
}

Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher