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

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Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake. View all posts by Julie Hancher