Ask-a-Dave's-Gardener: Rain barrel water \"soapy\", 3 by rmskiff

rmskiff wrote:
Hi,
I\'m not sure if I\'m posting this question in the right thread but not sure where else to post but under identification. I attempted to use my rain barrel (plastic purchased new about 3 years ago) & I noticed that the water coming from the barrel looked \"soapy\". I used the barrel about 1 week ago without any issues. There is no soapy odor, maybe a slight sulphuric smell if I put my nose right next to the water. I attempted first to fill my watering can & noticed soap like suds, as if I had put dish soap in the can before adding the water, about 70% water & 30% suds (see picture). I rinsed the watering can with tap water, no suds. So I opened the rain barrel & it was pouring soapy looking water onto the lawn (see pics). I have since tried draining the rain barrel, such a waste of water :( , & running hose water through the top to rinse out the barrel but still getting the soapy looking water. We have had a lot of rain & humidity recently but not unlike previous summers & I have never noticed this before. Has anyone ever seen this? What could be causing it? Is the water safe to use on gardens, lawns, fruits/veggies, etc? Any information anyone can share would be greatly appreciated! Thanks :)