Portuguese Prepper
Scepter vs. WaterBrick: Which storage container is best?
Once you calculate how much water you need, the problem becomes where to put it.
Cheap grocery store jugs degrade and leak within months. Long-term water storage requires rigid, food-grade HDPE containers that block light and resist impact.
The two industry standards serve different purposes: Scepter (military-style jerry cans) are built for durability and transport, while WaterBrick containers are designed to stack safely in closets and living spaces.
All options below are BPA-free and food-grade HDPE.
Water weighs 8.3 lbs per gallon; stackability matters.
Darker colors (blue/green) prevent algae growth better than clear jugs.
The “Stacker” Solution: WaterBrick
WaterBricks are unique because they interlock like building blocks. You can stack them 4 feet high without worrying about them tipping over. This makes them the #1 choice for apartments, closets, and under-bed storage.
However, they have a smaller opening and can be harder to pour from without a spigot attachment. They are essentially “static” storage—meant to sit in one place until needed.
The “Hauler” Solution: Scepter
Scepter manufactures military fuel and water cans. Their consumer water cans are virtually indestructible. If your preparedness plan involves throwing water into the back of a truck or evacuating by vehicle, Scepter is the superior choice.
They are tall and narrow, meaning they don’t stack vertically, but they fit efficiently into vehicle footwells and roof racks.
Which container fits your space?
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regardless of which container you choose, you should rinse it with a weak bleach solution before the first fill. Water stored in these containers (if treated properly) can last 6 to 12 months before needing rotation.
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