Best Lab Carboys of 2026

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2026

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Lab carboys are essential containers used in laboratories for storing and transporting various liquids. These carboys are typically made from durable materials such as plastic or glass, ensuring the safe storage of chemicals, solvents, and reagents. With their large capacities, lab carboys are suitable for holding significant quantities of liquids, making them ideal for scientific experiments and processes. Featuring secure caps or closures, they prevent any leakage or contamination, ensuring the integrity of the stored substances. Lab carboys are a crucial tool for scientists and researchers, providing a reliable and convenient solution for the storage and transportation of liquids in the laboratory setting.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

5L Polypropylene Carboy, Karter Scientific 231A4 Cover #TOP 1
5L Polypropylene Carboy, Karter Scientific 231A4
ftb score rating icon 9.9
HE HUDSON EXCHANGE Winpak 5 Gallon HDPE Container Cover #TOP 2
HE HUDSON EXCHANGE Winpak 5 Gallon HDPE Container
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SP Scienceware 20L Autoclavable Carboy Cover #TOP 3
SP Scienceware 20L Autoclavable Carboy
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Lab Carboys

#TOP 1

5L Polypropylene Carboy, Karter Scientific 231A4

5L Polypropylene Carboy, Karter Scientific 231A4 Cover
5L Round Carboy, Polypropylene, with Spigot & Polypropylene Screw Cap, Integrated Shoulder Lifting Handle, Karter Scientific 231A4

The Karter Scientific 5L Carboy is designed for ease and convenience in laboratory settings. Its molded graduations help you easily measure liquids, ensuring accuracy in your experiments. Made from durable polypropylene, this carboy offers excellent chemical resistance, making it suitable for various substances. The included spigot allows for easy dispensing of liquids, saving you time and effort. Additionally, the polypropylene screw cap provides a secure seal, preventing spills and contamination. With an integrated shoulder lifting handle, you can safely transport the carboy without strain.

What We Like
Easy measurement markings
Durable and chemical-resistant
Convenient liquid dispensing
Secure sealing cap
Integrated lifting handle
#TOP 2

HE HUDSON EXCHANGE Winpak 5 Gallon HDPE Container

B07N32NRCB
White
2 Pack
HE HUDSON EXCHANGE Winpak 5 Gallon HDPE Container Cover
Hudson Exchange 5 Gallon Winpak Handled Food Safe Container with Cap, HDPE, White (2 Pack)

The Hudson Exchange 5 Gallon Container offers a large 5-gallon size, perfect for storing or transporting liquids and other materials. Its compact dimensions make it easy to handle and store. The included 70mm threaded cap comes with a 3/4-inch knockout, allowing you to attach spigots for convenient pouring without removing the lid. Made from heavy-duty HDPE plastic, this container resists damage from chemicals, ensuring durability and safety for your stored substances. Additionally, the attached handle helps you pour contents smoothly and easily, reducing spills and making it more user-friendly for everyday use.

What We Like
Large 5-gallon capacity
Threaded cap with spigot knockout
Chemical-resistant HDPE plastic
Attached pouring handle
#TOP 3

SP Scienceware 20L Autoclavable Carboy

118460050
20 Liter Capacity
SP Scienceware 20L Autoclavable Carboy Cover
SP Bel-Art Autoclavable Polypropylene Carboy with Spigot Leak-Proof, 20L- Chemical Resistant, Food-Safe, Sterilizable for Lab, Pharmaceutical, and Industrial Use (5.3 Gallons) (F11846-0050)

The SP Scienceware Carboy is designed for durability and safety in demanding environments. Its robust polypropylene construction ensures excellent resistance to chemicals, making it suitable for storing various lab essentials. The leak-proof seal, featuring a silicone gasket, keeps your liquids secure and prevents any spills, giving you peace of mind. With a convenient spigot for easy dispensing, you can control the flow of liquids effortlessly, enhancing your workflow. Additionally, this carboy is autoclavable, capable of withstanding high temperatures for steam sterilization, which is crucial for maintaining hygiene in sterile settings.

What We Like
Durable polypropylene construction
Leak-proof design
Easy liquid dispensing
Autoclavable for sterilization
#TOP 4

SP Bel-Art Replacement Spigot for Autoclavable Polypropylene Carboys F11846-0025 and F11846-0050 (H91184-6005)

H91184-6005
SP Bel-Art Replacement Spigot for Autoclavable Polypropylene Carboys F11846-0025 and F11846-0050 (H91184-6005) Cover
SP Bel-Art Replacement Spigot for Autoclavable Polypropylene Carboys, Durable Polypropylene Lab Spigot Fits Carboy Models F11846-0025 & F11846-0050, Autoclavable, Chemical-Resistant (H91184-6005)

The SP Bel-Art Replacement Spigot is an easy-to-use accessory designed for the Autoclavable Polypropylene Carboys F11846-0025 and F11846-0050. This replacement spigot is conveniently located low on the carboy, allowing for more complete drainage. With its user-friendly design, it ensures easy and efficient dispensing of liquids. The package dimensions of this spigot are 2.5 L x 11.4H x 6.9W centimeters. The SP Bel-Art Replacement Spigot is a must-have for laboratory professionals, as it provides a reliable solution for replacing damaged or worn-out spigots. It offers convenience and ensures that no liquid is wasted, making it an essential accessory for any lab.

What We Like
Easy-to-use
Complete drainage
User-friendly design
#TOP 5

Eisco Labs Carboy Bottle with Stopcock

CH0177B
white
676.3 Ounces
Eisco Labs Carboy Bottle with Stopcock Cover
EISCO Carboy Bottle with Stopcock, 20 Liter Capacity, White Premium Polypropylene with 2 Handles Labs

The Eisco Labs Carboy Bottle is a high-quality 20-liter (5.3 gallon) container designed for convenient dispensing of liquids. Made of heat tolerant and chemical resistant polypropylene plastic, this carboy bottle is perfect for professional laboratories, science classrooms, households, workshops, and garages. It features a leak-proof stopcock spigot with a gasket screwed into the container to regulate liquid flow, ensuring no leaks or spills. The two integral molded handles make it easy to transport, allowing you to carry it with ease. With its large capacity and industrial quality, the Eisco Labs Carboy Bottle is a reliable choice for all your liquid storage needs.

What We Like
Large 20L Capacity
Leak-Proof Stopcock
Chemical Resistant
#TOP 6

Eisco 20L Polypropylene Carboy with Spigot

CH5558
Eisco 20L Polypropylene Carboy with Spigot Cover
Eisco - 20L Polypropylene Carboy with Silicone-Lined Cap and Spigot, Autoclavable, Leakproof Tested, Non-Sterile, 0-135°C Temperature Range, FDA Compliant, Lab & Scientific Liquid Storage Container

The Eisco Polypropylene Carboy is designed for convenient and safe liquid storage. Made from high-quality virgin polypropylene, it features a silicone-lined cap and built-in spigot, making it easy for you to dispense liquids without spills. This container can handle steam sterilization up to 135°C, so you can use it confidently in lab or scientific settings where cleanliness is critical. Plus, it's been tested for leaks and durability, ensuring that it won’t crack or leak during use. This means you get a reliable container that keeps your liquids secure and makes your work easier.

What We Like
Durable polypropylene material
Silicone-lined spill-proof cap
Autoclavable up to 135°C
Leakproof and crack-resistant
#TOP 7

Labvida 10L Round Carboy

LVAA001US
Labvida 10L Round Carboy Cover
Labvida 10L (2.5 Gallons) Round Carboys with Handles,Molded Graduations, Autoclavable PP Material, Heavy Duty Water Can, Lab, Home, Travel Liquid Storage, LVAA001

The Labvida 10L Carboy is a versatile and durable liquid storage container designed for laboratory use. With a capacity of 10 liters, this carboy is perfect for storing distilled water, medium, and other reagents commonly used in laboratories. Its round shape and molded graduations make it easy to measure and pour liquids accurately. The carboy features a PP material construction, ensuring its durability and autoclavability. The screw closure with a TPE liner provides a secure seal to prevent leaks. Additionally, the carboy is equipped with a handle for easy carrying. Whether you are working in a lab, at home, or traveling, the Labvida 10L Carboy is a reliable and convenient solution for your liquid storage needs.

What We Like
Durable
Autoclavable
Easy to measure and pour
#TOP 8

Consolidated Plastics 5 Gallon Carboy

32211-parent
Consolidated Plastics 5 Gallon Carboy Cover
Consolidated Plastics 5 Gallon Stackable Carboy with Leakproof Cap and Handle, HDPE Food Grade, BPA Free, Made in USA (Natural)

The Consolidated Plastics Carboy is a high-quality, stackable container that is perfect for lab use. Made from high density polyethylene (HDPE), this carboy meets UN specifications and FDA requirements, ensuring its safety and reliability. With its integrated handle, this carboy is easy to use and transport. The 60mm red gasketed cap included with the carboy is leak-proof, providing a secure seal for your liquids. One of the standout features of this carboy is its stackability, allowing you to save space by stacking up to four containers high. Whether you need a carboy for lab experiments or storing liquids, the Consolidated Plastics Carboy is a versatile and convenient choice.

What We Like
High-quality
Leak-proof cap
Stackable
#TOP 9

Maxdot 2.6 Gallon Plastic Dispenser Carboy

PAN-Maxdot-3616
white
2.6 Gallon
Maxdot 2.6 Gallon Plastic Dispenser Carboy Cover
Maxdot 1 Pcs 2.6 Gallon Plastic Dispenser Carboy with Spigot Leak-Proof, Durable Hdpe, Plastic 10L Reusable Liquid Storage Solution for Lab, Pharmaceutical, and Industrial Use

The Maxdot Plastic Dispenser is built from tough polypropylene, making it perfect for handling harsh chemicals safely over time. With a 1.3-gallon capacity and a wide 3.15-inch mouth, you can fill and pour liquids easily without spills or mess. Its smart design includes a molded plug and anti-corrosion pad, which help the liquid flow smoothly while keeping pressure balanced, so you get a steady pour every time. Plus, the ergonomic handle and stable base make it easy to carry and keep steady, giving you confidence and convenience when using it in labs or industrial settings.

What We Like
Durable polypropylene construction
Large 1.3-gallon capacity
Easy filling and pouring
Ergonomic handle and stable base
#TOP 10

kitchentoolz 2.5 Gallon HDPE Water Jug

2.5 F Style
Natural
320 Ounces
kitchentoolz 2.5 Gallon HDPE Water Jug Cover
kitchentoolz 2.5 Gallon Water Jug – Water Container Heavy-Duty HDPE Carboy for Automotive Used Oil & Liquid Storage – 10 Quart Mixing Container with Secure Lid – Made in USA

The kitchentoolz 2.5 Gallon Jug is made entirely in the USA, ensuring high quality and durability you can trust for both home and industrial tasks. Its tough HDPE construction makes it perfect for safely storing and transporting automotive fluids like motor oil or chemicals, giving you peace of mind against leaks or spills. The engraved measurement markings on the side help you mix and measure liquids accurately, which is especially handy when preparing automotive fluids like coolant or antifreeze. Despite its heavy-duty build, this jug remains easy to handle and pour, offering extra capacity without the bulkiness of larger containers.

What We Like
Made in USA quality
Durable HDPE material
Clear measurement markings
Manageable 2.5 gallon size
Leak-proof secure lid
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are examples of laboratory carboys?

Laboratory carboys come in various materials, such as polypropylene (PP), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polycarbonate (PC), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Each material has its own advantages, such as autoclavability for polypropylene carboys and non-porousness for PET and glass carboys.

2. What were carboys used for?

Carboys are commonly used in laboratories for transporting liquids, including drinking water or chemicals. They are also popular for home fermentation of beverages like beer or wine.

3. What is a carboy hazmat?

A carboy hazmat refers to a 5-gallon carboy used to collect liquid hazardous waste. It is important not to overfill the container, keeping the liquid level below the fill line, typically 4/5 full. Additionally, the hazardous waste label should be completed and the carboy should not be stored in the laboratory for more than a week.

4. What is the difference between a fermenter and a carboy?

Carboys are slightly smaller in volume compared to fermenting buckets. They minimize unnecessary headspace, reducing the risk of oxidation during the conditioning phase when active fermentation is not pushing out the air from the fermenter.

5. What is a carboy used to transport?

Carboys are used to transport various liquid materials, including corrosives like strong acids (nitric, sulfuric), flammable or combustible solvents, and flammable or oxidizing cryogenic fluids.

Editor's Notes

During our lab carboy research, we found 24 lab carboy products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,026 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lab carboys list. We found that most customers choose lab carboys with an average price of $41.06.

The lab carboys are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lab carboys, including Karter Scientific, HE HUDSON EXCHANGE, SP Scienceware, EISCO, Labvida. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 227 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Brian Howie Avatar

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.