10 Best Plastic Fermentation Buckets for Perfect Home Brewing

I’ve tested plastic fermentation buckets extensively and recommend starting with the Fastrack 6.5-gallon bucket for most homebrewers—it provides ample headspace for vigorous fermentation and includes pre-drilled lids for easy airlock installation. For small batches, North Mountain Supply’s 2-gallon option works well, while the U.S. Solid 2-pack offers excellent value with two food-grade HDPE buckets. All feature BPA-free construction and airtight seals to prevent contamination during fermentation. Below you’ll discover specific capacity recommendations and essential features for your brewing setup.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. Last update on 30th August 2025 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.

Notable Insights

• Choose 6.5-gallon buckets like Fastrack or U.S. Solid for standard batches with adequate headspace for vigorous fermentation.
• Select food-grade HDPE or polypropylene construction with BPA-free certification to ensure safe, contamination-free brewing processes.
• Look for pre-drilled lids with grommet holes for easy airlock installation and airtight seals to prevent contamination.
• Consider dual-purpose designs that function as both fermenters and bottling buckets for versatile brewing operations.
• Prioritize smooth interior surfaces and wide-mouth designs for easy cleaning and maintenance between brewing batches.

FastTrack Fermentation Bucket, 2 Gallon Home Brewing Wine Fermenter

When you’re starting your home brewing journey or need a reliable backup fermenter, the FastTrack 2-gallon fermentation bucket delivers exceptional value through its dual-purpose design. You’ll appreciate its food-grade HDPE construction that’s completely BPA-free, ensuring your fermented beverages remain safe throughout the process. The included drilled lid comes with a grommet for airlock installation, eliminating additional purchases.

This lightweight fermenter doubles as a bottling bucket, giving you two essential brewing tools in one purchase. You can easily remove sediment, take hydrometer readings, and add dry hops without wrestling with narrow openings like glass carboys present. The generous headspace accommodates high-krausen beers during primary fermentation, preventing messy overflows that plague smaller containers.

Best For: Beginning home brewers and experienced brewers seeking a versatile, lightweight fermenter that doubles as a bottling bucket for small batch beer and wine production.

Pros:

• Dual-purpose design functions as both fermenter and bottling bucket, providing excellent value
• Wide opening allows easy access for hydrometer samples, dry hopping, and sediment removal without narrow neck limitations
• Food-grade HDPE construction with BPA-free materials ensures safe fermentation with included drilled lid and grommet

Cons:

• 2-gallon capacity limits batch sizes compared to larger fermenters
• Plastic construction may be more prone to scratching and harboring bacteria over time compared to glass or stainless steel
• Smaller size provides less headspace for vigorous fermentation compared to larger capacity fermenters

Fastrack 6.5 Gallon Fermenting Bucket with Lid for Beer & Wine

The Fastrack 6.5 Gallon Fermenting Bucket stands out as an ideal choice for home brewers who need reliable equipment that handles high-krausen beers and provides ample headspace during primary fermentation. You’ll appreciate its food-grade HDPE construction that’s 100% BPA free, ensuring safe fermentation for beer, wine, mead, and cider. The pre-drilled lid grommet accommodates your airlock perfectly, while the included specific gravity chart lets you mark measurements directly on the bucket. You can personalize readings with a dry erase marker for easy tracking. Though some users note the lid’s one-time-use design and tall, narrow shape can make pouring challenging, the bucket’s sturdy construction resists leaks and cleans easily between batches.

Best For: Home brewers who need a reliable fermenting vessel for high-krausen beers, wine, mead, and cider with ample headspace for primary fermentation.

Pros:

• Made from food-grade HDPE that’s 100% BPA free with sturdy, leak-resistant construction
• Includes pre-drilled lid grommet for airlock and specific gravity chart for easy measurement tracking
• Easy to clean and sanitize between batches with lightweight design for convenient handling

Cons:

• Lid has a one-time-use design that some users find problematic
• Tall and narrow shape makes pouring and transferring more difficult
• Higher priced compared to similar products available at local shops

North Mountain Supply 2 Gallon Fermenting Bucket with 2-Piece Airlock

Small-batch fermentation enthusiasts will find exceptional value in the North Mountain Supply 2 Gallon Fermenting Bucket, which perfectly balances compact capacity with professional-grade features. You’ll appreciate the pre-drilled grommet that securely holds the included 2-piece airlock, eliminating guesswork during setup. The bucket handles a full gallon plus fruit additions while providing adequate headspace to prevent messy overflows during active fermentation. You can successfully create hot sauces, peach mead, and fruit wines using this versatile container. Clean it easily with Star San or diluted bleach solution between batches. The 30-day replacement program protects your investment against defects.

Best For: Small-batch fermentation enthusiasts who want to make beer, wine, hot sauces, or fermented vegetables in compact quantities with professional-grade equipment.

Pros:

• Pre-drilled grommet and included 2-piece airlock eliminate setup guesswork and ensure proper fermentation
• Optimal 2-gallon capacity handles full gallon batches plus fruit additions with adequate headspace to prevent overflow
• Easy to clean with standard sanitizing solutions and backed by 30-day hassle-free replacement program

Cons:

• Lid can be difficult to remove once sealed, potentially complicating yeast nutrient additions and gravity readings
• Air-tightness may be compromised after repeated lid removal, affecting fermentation quality
• Plastic construction prevents visual inspection of fermentation progress compared to glass alternatives

U.S. Solid 2-Pack Plastic Fermenter – 6.5 Gallon Food-Grade Fermenting Bucket

Home brewers seeking a complete fermentation solution will find the U.S. Solid 2-Pack Plastic Fermenter delivers exceptional value and functionality. Each 6.5-gallon bucket provides ample capacity for standard brewing batches, measuring 12.2 x 12.2 x 17.9 inches. You’ll appreciate the food-grade polypropylene construction that’s passed rigorous BPA testing, ensuring your brew remains safe throughout fermentation. The included spigot makes bottling effortless, while the 3-piece airlock creates ideal fermentation conditions by preventing contamination. At 2.54 pounds per bucket, these lightweight fermenters are easy to handle and clean by hand (though they’re not dishwasher safe). Customer ratings average 4.2 stars.

Best For: Home brewers who want a complete, affordable fermentation setup with dual buckets for multiple batches or larger brewing operations.

Pros:

• Includes essential accessories like spigot and 3-piece airlock for a complete fermentation system
• Food-grade polypropylene construction with BPA-free certification ensures safe brewing
• Lightweight design at 2.54 pounds per bucket makes handling and cleaning easy

Cons:

• Not dishwasher safe, requiring hand washing only
• Plastic construction may be less durable than stainless steel alternatives for long-term use
• Round shape may be less space-efficient for storage compared to square or rectangular containers

Fastrack 6.5 Gallon Fermenting Bucket with Lid for Beer & Wine

Beginning brewers who need reliable equipment for fermenting various beverages will find the Fastrack 6.5 Gallon Fermenting Bucket an excellent starting point for their brewing journey. You’ll appreciate the food-grade HDPE construction that’s completely BPA-free, ensuring your beer and wine remain safe throughout fermentation. The bucket weighs 3.9 pounds and measures 14 x 14 x 18 inches, providing ample headspace for high-krausen beers during primary fermentation. You’ll find the pre-drilled lid grommet accepts standard airlocks, while the white plastic design makes cleaning straightforward. With 4.3 stars from 519 customer reviews, this fermenter delivers reliable performance for brewing beer, wine, mead, and cider.

Best For: Beginning and intermediate brewers who need a reliable, food-safe fermenting vessel for beer, wine, mead, and cider with ample headspace for active fermentation.

Pros:

• Made from food-grade HDPE plastic that’s 100% BPA-free for safe fermentation
• Generous 6.5-gallon capacity provides excellent headspace for high-krausen beers during primary fermentation
• Lightweight at 3.9 pounds with easy-to-clean design and pre-drilled lid grommet for standard airlocks

Cons:

• Plastic construction may be less durable than glass or stainless steel alternatives over long-term use
• White plastic material can potentially stain or retain odors from certain ingredients over time
• Basic design lacks advanced features like spigots or measurement markings that some brewers prefer

Home Brew Ohio 6.5 Gallon Fermenting Bucket with Grommeted Lid

Ambitious brewers who want to scale up their production will find the Home Brew Ohio 6.5 Gallon Fermenting Bucket with Grommeted Lid perfectly suited for larger batch brewing. This fermenting bucket uses food-grade plastic construction that withstands fermentation pressure while maintaining your brew’s freshness throughout the process. The grommeted lid creates a tight seal that prevents contamination, and the included twin bubble airlock allows carbon dioxide to escape while blocking external elements from entering your fermenting beer or wine. You’ll appreciate how easy this bucket is to clean and maintain, making it suitable whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been brewing for years.

Best For: Ambitious home brewers who want to scale up production with larger batch brewing and need a reliable, easy-to-maintain fermenting vessel suitable for both beginners and experienced brewers.

Pros:

• 6.5-gallon capacity allows for brewing larger batches at home
• Food-grade plastic construction withstands fermentation pressure while maintaining freshness
• Complete airlock system with grommeted lid prevents contamination while allowing CO2 escape

Cons:

• Plastic construction may be less durable than stainless steel alternatives over long-term use
• Larger 6.5-gallon size requires more storage space compared to smaller fermenting vessels
• May be overkill for brewers who prefer making smaller, experimental batches

Home Brew Ohio Five Gallon Fermentation Set-Up (5 Gallon Carboy & 6.5 Gallon Bucket)

Serious home brewers who want flexibility in their fermentation process will find the Home Brew Ohio Five Gallon Fermentation Set-Up particularly valuable for its dual-vessel approach. You’ll get both a 5-gallon carboy and a 6.5-gallon food-grade plastic bucket with lid, creating a complete primary and secondary fermentation system. This setup works perfectly for beer, wine, mead, and cider production. The included bung and airlock maintain proper gas release while preventing contamination throughout fermentation. You can start primary fermentation in the larger bucket, then transfer to the carboy for secondary aging and clarification, giving you professional-level control over your brewing process.

Best For: Serious home brewers who want professional-level control over their fermentation process with the flexibility to produce multiple types of alcoholic beverages including beer, wine, mead, and cider.

Pros:

• Complete dual-vessel system allows for both primary and secondary fermentation stages for better flavor development and clarification
• Versatile setup works for brewing beer, wine, mead, and cider all with the same equipment
• Includes essential accessories like bung and airlock to maintain proper fermentation conditions while preventing contamination

Cons:

• Requires more storage space and cleaning time compared to single-vessel fermentation setups
• May be unnecessarily complex for beginners who just want to start with simple single-stage fermentation
• Glass carboy can be fragile and heavy, making handling and cleaning more challenging than plastic alternatives

North Mountain Supply 4 Gallon Fermenting Bucket with Airlock

Small-batch brewers who need a compact, graduated fermenter will find the North Mountain Supply 4 Gallon Fermenting Bucket particularly well-suited for their operations. This Italian-manufactured plastic bucket holds 4 gallons (16 liters) and includes a twin bubble airlock for CO2 release during fermentation. You’ll appreciate the semi-translucent sides that let you monitor liquid levels easily, though some users report difficulty removing the lid initially. The bucket’s sturdy construction handles beer, wine, and vegetable fermentation well. However, you should verify all components arrive complete, as some customers received missing grommets or seals. North Mountain Supply backs their product with 30-day hassle-free replacements.

Best For: Small-batch brewers and fermentation enthusiasts who need a compact, graduated fermenter for beer, wine, or vegetable fermentation projects.

Pros:

• Semi-translucent sides allow easy monitoring of liquid levels during fermentation
• Sturdy Italian-manufactured construction handles various fermentation types effectively
• Includes twin bubble airlock system for proper CO2 release during fermentation

Cons:

• Some customers report missing components like grommets, seals, or S-traps upon delivery
• Lid can be difficult to remove initially, with unclear instructions for proper opening
• Lacks airtight seal and carrying handle, limiting portability and effectiveness

FastRack Fermentation Bucket 6.5 Gallon Wine & Beer Fermenter

Home brewers who need reliable, spacious fermentation equipment will find the FastRack Fermentation Bucket delivers excellent value for money. This 6.5-gallon fermenter accommodates larger batches of beer, wine, and mead with room for vigorous fermentation activity. You’ll appreciate the gallon markings printed on the side, which eliminate guesswork during transfers and measurements. The food-grade, BPA-free plastic construction guarantees your beverages remain safe and uncontaminated throughout the fermentation process. The included rubber grommet creates an airtight seal when you insert your airlock, preventing oxygen exposure while allowing CO2 to escape. At 2.6 pounds, you can easily move this durable bucket between brewing stations.

Best For: Home brewers who need a reliable, spacious fermenter for larger batches of beer, wine, and mead with easy measurement tracking and safe food-grade construction.

Pros:

• 6.5-gallon capacity provides ample space for larger batches and vigorous fermentation activity
• Gallon markings on the side eliminate guesswork during transfers and measurements
• Food-grade, BPA-free plastic construction with airtight seal ensures safe, uncontaminated fermentation

Cons:

• Plastic construction may be less durable than stainless steel alternatives over long-term use
• Limited to 6.5-gallon capacity which may not suit commercial or very large batch brewing needs
• Round shape may require more storage space compared to stackable square designs

North Mountain Supply 8 Gallon Fermenting Bucket with Airlock

Ambitious brewers who tackle larger batches will find the North Mountain Supply 8 Gallon Fermenting Bucket delivers the capacity and reliability needed for substantial fermentation projects. This Italian-made fermenter holds 30 liters and features transparent walls for easy monitoring. You’ll receive a twin bubble airlock with pre-installed grommet that creates airtight sealing while allowing CO2 escape. The graduated markings help you measure precisely during beer, wine, or vegetable fermentation. Beginners should fill halfway (around 4 gallons) to master the process before attempting full batches. The 30-day replacement program protects your investment.

Best For: Ambitious homebrewers and small breweries who need reliable capacity for larger fermentation batches of beer, wine, or vegetables.

Pros:

• High-quality Italian construction with transparent walls for easy monitoring and graduated markings for precise measurements
• Complete setup with twin bubble airlock and pre-installed grommet that ensures airtight sealing while allowing proper CO2 escape
• Generous 8-gallon capacity ideal for substantial batches with 30-day hassle-free replacement program for peace of mind

Cons:

• Large 8-gallon capacity may be overwhelming for beginners who should only fill halfway initially
• Requires significant space for storage and fermentation compared to smaller bucket options
• May necessitate purchasing multiple buckets for efficiency, increasing overall investment cost

Factors to Consider When Choosing Plastic Fermentation Buckets

When I’m selecting a plastic fermentation bucket for my brewing setup, I need to evaluate several key factors that directly impact my fermentation success. The bucket’s capacity must match my batch sizes, while food-grade materials guarantee my beer stays safe and tastes clean. I also consider the airlock system’s effectiveness, the bucket’s construction quality for long-term use, and how easily I can sanitize it between batches.

Capacity and Size Options

Several capacity options exist for plastic fermentation buckets, and choosing the right size directly impacts your brewing success. I recommend 2-gallon buckets for small batches or beginners who want to experiment with recipes. For standard home brewing, 6.5-gallon buckets work perfectly for 5-gallon batches, providing essential headspace during fermentation.

Consider the physical dimensions when selecting your bucket. A typical 6.5-gallon bucket measures 14 inches in diameter and 18 inches tall, so make sure it fits your brewing space. Larger 8-gallon options suit serious brewers making bigger batches but require more storage space and can be harder to move when full.

Always choose a capacity that leaves adequate headspace above your wort. This prevents messy overflows during high-krausen fermentation periods.

Food-Grade Material Safety

Food-grade material safety stands as the most critical factor in selecting your plastic fermentation bucket. I always look for buckets made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polypropylene, which meet strict safety standards for food and beverage applications. These materials prevent harmful chemicals from leaching into your brew during fermentation.

You’ll want buckets labeled as 100% BPA-free, since Bisphenol A poses health risks when it contacts food. HDPE and polypropylene offer excellent durability, impact resistance, and temperature tolerance throughout the fermentation process.

Choose buckets that clean and sanitize easily, as improper cleaning leads to contamination and spoilage. I regularly inspect my buckets for wear, damage, or cracking, since compromised containers can’t provide the proper fermentation environment your brew needs.

Airlock and Seal Systems

Proper airlock and seal systems create the foundation for successful fermentation by maintaining the anaerobic environment your brew requires. I recommend looking for buckets with grommeted lids that securely hold airlocks in place. These designs allow CO2 to escape while preventing outside air and contaminants from entering your bucket.

Twin bubble and S-style airlocks work most effectively because they provide efficient gas release while maintaining tighter seals. The lid’s seal quality matters tremendously – an airtight connection prevents oxygen ingress that could spoil your fermentation. You’ll also want to monitor fermentation progress more easily.

Choose simpler airlock designs that facilitate ingredient additions and fermentation checks without challenging lid removal. This user-friendly approach makes your brewing process smoother and more enjoyable overall.

Durability and Construction Quality

Beyond securing proper sealing mechanisms, you’ll need to evaluate the overall construction quality that determines your bucket’s lifespan and brewing success. I always check for buckets made from food-grade HDPE or polypropylene materials, which resist cracking and maintain structural integrity under fermentation pressures. The plastic should feel substantial in your hands, not flimsy or flexible.

Look for reinforced handles that won’t snap under the weight of five gallons of fermenting beer. Quality buckets feature smooth interior surfaces without scratches or grooves where bacteria could hide. I examine the bottom seams carefully—they should be seamless or welded properly to prevent leaks.

A well-constructed bucket will withstand repeated cleaning with sanitizers and temperature fluctuations without degrading, making it a worthwhile investment for consistent brewing results.

Ease of Cleaning

A spotless fermentation environment starts with choosing buckets that practically clean themselves. I recommend selecting food-grade plastic buckets with smooth, non-textured surfaces that won’t trap residues or harbor bacteria. These materials sanitize quickly with common cleaning solutions, making maintenance straightforward between batches.

Look for wide-mouth designs that allow easy access without specialized cleaning tools. You’ll appreciate being able to reach every corner with a standard cloth or sponge. Lightweight construction makes handling during cleaning much simpler, especially when maneuvering around your brewing space.

Choose scratch-resistant materials that maintain their smooth finish over time. Scratches create hiding spots for contaminants that compromise your brew quality. Buckets compatible with standard sanitizing solutions guarantee you can maintain proper hygiene without purchasing specialty cleaners or following complicated procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Replace My Plastic Fermentation Bucket?

I replace my plastic fermentation buckets every 3-5 years with regular use. If you notice scratches, cloudiness, or persistent odors that won’t wash out, it’s time for a new one. Deep scratches harbor bacteria that’ll ruin your brew. I inspect mine after each cleaning, checking for cracks around the spigot and lid. Heavy brewers using buckets monthly should replace them every 2-3 years to maintain sanitation standards.

Can Plastic Fermentation Buckets Affect the Taste of My Brew?

Yes, plastic fermentation buckets can affect your brew’s taste if they’re scratched, old, or poor quality. I recommend using food-grade HDPE plastic that’s specifically designed for brewing. Scratches harbor bacteria and wild yeast that create off-flavors. Cheap plastics sometimes impart chemical tastes. Replace buckets every 2-3 years or when you notice scratches, cloudiness, or persistent odors that won’t wash out.

What’s the Best Way to Sanitize Plastic Fermentation Buckets?

I recommend using no-rinse sanitizers like Star San or potassium metabisulfite for plastic fermentation buckets. Mix one ounce of Star San per five gallons of water, then soak your bucket for two minutes. Don’t rinse afterward since it’s food-safe when diluted. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals that can scratch plastic and create hiding spots for bacteria.

Do Plastic Buckets Scratch Easily and Harbor Bacteria Over Time?

Yes, plastic buckets do scratch easily from cleaning and stirring, and these scratches can harbor bacteria over time. I recommend inspecting your bucket regularly for deep scratches or cloudiness. Replace buckets every two to three years or sooner if you notice persistent odors or visible damage. Always use soft cleaning tools and avoid abrasive scrubbers to minimize scratching during routine maintenance.

Can I Use Plastic Fermentation Buckets for Hot Liquids or Wort?

I don’t recommend using plastic fermentation buckets for hot liquids or wort above 140°F. Most food-grade plastic buckets will warp, crack, or release harmful chemicals when exposed to high temperatures. Instead, I cool my wort to room temperature (around 70-80°F) using an immersion chiller or ice bath before transferring it to plastic fermenters. This protects both your equipment and beer quality.

On a final note

I’ve covered ten excellent plastic fermentation buckets that’ll serve your home brewing needs well. Each option offers specific advantages, from compact 2-gallon sizes for small batches to spacious 8-gallon vessels for larger productions. Remember to prioritize food-grade materials, secure lids, and proper airlock systems when making your choice. Consider your brewing volume, available space, and budget constraints. With any of these buckets, you’ll have the foundation for successful fermentation and delicious homemade beverages.