Buckets & Containers

About Buckets & Containers

Buckets and containers are essential worksite equipment used across virtually every trade and industry. From mixing plaster and transporting materials to organising tools and storing liquids, the right bucket or container significantly improves efficiency and site organisation. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of professional-grade buckets, tubs, and specialist containers designed to withstand demanding trade environments.

Our selection includes heavy-duty builders' buckets, mixing tubs, stackable storage containers, and specialist paint kettles. Whether you're a plasterer requiring robust mixing buckets, a decorator needing paint scuttles, or a general tradesperson looking for versatile storage solutions, you'll find containers engineered for durability and long-term use. Many feature graduated volume markings for accurate measuring, reinforced rims to prevent splitting, and ergonomic handles designed for comfortable carrying even when fully loaded.

Applications

Buckets and containers serve numerous trades and industries:

• Plasterers and Renderers: Mixing plaster, carrying materials, and cleaning tools
• Painters and Decorators: Paint kettles, scuttles, and mixing buckets for various coatings
• Builders and General Contractors: Material transport, mixing concrete, and site organisation
• Tilers: Mixing adhesive and grout to precise consistencies
• Landscapers: Moving soil, aggregates, water, and mixed materials
• Electricians and Plumbers: Carrying tools, parts, and collecting waste materials
• Cleaners and Facilities Maintenance: Holding cleaning solutions and transporting equipment
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home improvement projects, gardening, and general storage
• Catering and Food Service: Food preparation and ingredient storage with food-grade containers

Choosing The Right Buckets & Containers

Capacity and Size: Buckets typically range from 5 to 25 litres. A 10-litre bucket suits most general tasks, whilst plasterers often prefer 15-20 litre mixing buckets. Remember that a full 20-litre bucket of water weighs approximately 20kg plus container weight.

Material Construction: HDPE and polypropylene buckets offer excellent chemical resistance and durability for most trade applications. Metal buckets provide superior strength for heavy aggregates. Food-grade containers are essential for catering, whilst UV-stabilised options prevent degradation on outdoor sites.

Handle Design: Wire bail handles with comfortable grips distribute weight more evenly than moulded plastic handles and are less likely to break under heavy loads. Some containers feature side handles for two-handed carrying or controlled pouring.

Special Features: Consider graduated markings for accurate mixing ratios, pouring lips for controlled dispensing, reinforced rims for durability, and nestable designs to save storage space. MyToolShed.co.uk offers buckets with application-specific features including smooth interiors for easy cleaning and secure lids for safe transport.

Safety Information

Manual Handling: Always assess weight before lifting filled containers. A 20-litre bucket with materials can exceed 25kg. Use two hands, maintain good posture, and consider bucket dollies for heavy loads to prevent back injuries.

Chemical Storage: Ensure containers are chemical-resistant and properly labelled according to COSHH regulations when storing hazardous materials. Never use food-grade containers for chemicals or vice versa.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a bucket and a tub?

Buckets feature wire bail handles and are taller in proportion, ideal for transporting liquids. Tubs have a wider, shallower profile with side handles, better suited for mixing and applications requiring easy access from above.

What size bucket do I need for general building work?

A 15-litre bucket represents the ideal size for most trade applications—large enough for mixing and carrying but not dangerously heavy when filled. Many tradespeople keep multiple sizes: 10-litre for cleaning, 15-20 litre for general use, and larger tubs for storage.

Can I use regular buckets for mixing plaster?

Professional mixing buckets offer reinforced construction for repeated use with mixing paddles, smooth interiors that clean easily, and graduated markings for accurate ratios. The investment pays off through durability and consistent results.