How Do You Cover a 5 Gallon Bucket?

When it comes to storage solutions, a 5 gallon bucket is an extremely useful and versatile option. From airtight 5 gallon food grade buckets with screw on lids to spill-proof paint storage—you can use a 5 gallon bucket to store pretty much anything. How do you ensure that whatever you’re storing stays inside your bucket? In this article we will discuss multiple ways you can successfully cover a 5 gallon bucket. Let’s get started!

Cover Your Bucket With a Lid

First things first, the best way to cover a 5 gallon bucket is with a lid. But are all 5 gallon bucket lids the same? Absolutely not! Each five gallon bucket lid serves a different purpose. In this section, we’ll discover more about 5 gallon bucket lid models and learn what each model has to offer!

What Size Lid Fits a 5 Gallon Bucket?

The dimensions of a 5 gallon bucket lid vary depending on the lid model and manufacturer. However, the average dimensions for most 5 gallon bucket lids will be close to a 12" diameter x 1.41" height. Another interesting thing to note is that most 5 gallon bucket lids fit 3.5 gallon buckets as well. This is because most 3 gallon buckets have the same diameter as a 5 gallon bucket, and lids can be used interchangeably. This again varies depending on the bucket supplier, so we recommend buying your buckets and lids from the same manufacturer to guarantee a perfect fit.

Types Of Bucket Lids

L40GTSRS - BPA Free Food Grade 3.5 & 5 Gallon White Bucket Lid with Pour Spout

These lid models have a Reike Sr spout, making them ideal for situations where you need to easily pour liquid from your bucket. Made of Linear Low Density Polyethylene LLDPE resin, this bucket lid is food grade and BPA free, and includes a gasketed tear strip. Dimensions: 12.48" x 1.41.

L40GTSU - BPA Free Food Grade 3.5 & 5 Gallon White Non-gasketed Bucket Lid

These non-gasketed lid models come with a tear strip and are made of food-grade and BPA free HDPE resin. These lids are useful for when an extremely tight seal isn’t a requirement. These lids are also extremely easy to apply compared to gasketed lid models. Dimensions: 12.28" diameter x 1.41" height.

L40GTS - BPA Free Food Grade 3.5 & 5 Gallon White Bucket Lid

This is a gasketed lid model which includes a tear strip and is made of LLDPE resin, another BPA free and food-grade material. The gasket provides a tighter seal compared to non-gasketed lid models. This is useful for applications that require more security - like storing liquids. Because of these extra security measures, these lid models are a bit difficult to apply. At ePackage we provide detailed instructions to help you through this process! Dimensions: 12" diameter x 1.41" height.

Gamma Seal Lid - BPA Free Food Grade 5 Gallon Lid

Gamma seal lids are screw-on lid models. This type of lid transforms any 5 gallon bucket into a resealable storage container. While any of the above lids are technically reusable, the gamma seal lid is the easiest and most practical lid for buckets that you will be opening and closing multiple times. Made of HDPE resin, the gamma seal lid’s rubber seal makes it leak-proof and airtight.

Are 5 gallon Bucket Lids Airtight?

Not all 5 gallon bucket lids are airtight. Truly airtight 5 gallon bucket lids are equipped with a rubber seal - aka, the gamma seal lids we mentioned in the section above.

If you’re in the market for an airtight 5 gallon bucket with screw on lid, you should purchase both your bucket and lid at the same time and from the same manufacturer to ensure a perfect fit. In addition, if you are looking to store food then you need to check and make sure both the bucket and lid are food grade.

Other Ways to Cover a 5 Gallon Bucket

If you need something to hold you over until you buy some bucket lids, there are two additional efficient ways to cover a 5 gallon bucket. However, none of these methods is airtight and should not be used when storing food or anything else that has the potential to spoil or spill.

1. Elastic Drum Covers - These covers work as a temporary fix if your bucket lid breaks and you are waiting for a replacement. Some elastic drum covers are made with semi-durable polyethylene while others are made with polypropylene and are mode durable .
2. Silicone Stretch Lids - Like the elastic drum covers, these silicone lids make a good temporary lid solution. These lids stretch to fit across the 5 gallon bucket like elastic drum covers, but they are easier to clean and reuse since they are made out of silicone.

Looking for Buckets that Won’t Break the Bank?

Is buying a 5 gallon bucket on your bucket list? You’re in luck! At ePackage Supply we’re able to satisfy all of your bucket needs. Our 5 gallon white bucket is made with FDA-approved HDPE plastic and is BPA free. These buckets are also made with 90 mil thick food grade, meaning you can transport anything safely without worrying about leaks or spills. Our wide variety of food-safe lids seamlessly fit our all-purpose, heavy-duty 5 gallon buckets. You can easily order our food grade 5 gallon buckets with lids through our website.

*ePackage exclusively sells official Gamma Lid® products.