The Best Portable Wet Dry Vacuum For 2024

Jane Austen By, Jane Austen
Updated
Best Portable Wet Dry Vacuum
Best Portable Wet Dry Vacuum

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: CRAFTSMAN Wet/Dry Vacuum

"This CRAFTSMAN Wet/Dry Vacuum is perfect for tackling any mess in your home or workshop. It features Dual-Flex Technology, which provides 180-degree mobility at each end of the 2-1/2 inch diameter shop vacuum hose, so it won't kink or get caught on corners." Read Review

2. Runner Up: DEWALT 20V MAX Wet/Dry Vacuum

"The DEWALT 20V MAX Wet/Dry Vacuum is an ideal tool for tackling any home improvement project. It features dual clean-up modes with a front utility nozzle and an extendable rubber hose that can handle wet and dry messes." Read Review

3. Best Efficient: Stanley SL18910P-3 Wet/Dry Vacuum

"The Stanley SL18910P-3 Wet/Dry Vacuum is the perfect tool for tackling any mess. This powerful vac features a 3 peak HP motor and 3 in 1 crevice nozzle that provide the powerful suction you need to quickly clean up spills, debris, and other messes around the home." Read Review

4. Best Technology: DEWALT 20V MAX Wet-Dry Vacuum

"This DEWALT 20V MAX Wet-Dry Vacuum is the perfect cordless solution for all your wet and dry vacuuming needs. It is powered by a 20V MAX battery for cordless operation, making it easy to use in any location." Read Review

5. Best Design: Vacmaster Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner

"The Vacmaster Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner is a powerful and reliable tool for any cleaning job. This vacuum features a multi-layer filtration system that includes a washable cartridge filter and a HEPA-material exhaust filter, making it perfect for dry vacuuming." Read Review

When looking for the ultimate cleaning solution for your home or vehicle, a portable wet/dry vacuum is one of the best options. This powerful piece of equipment is designed to tackle the toughest messes, from wet spills to dry dirt and dust, and it's lightweight and highly portable so that you can take it anywhere. Whether you're dealing with a small indoor mess or a large outdoor job, a portable wet/dry vacuum is the perfect solution.

But with so many options on the market, how do you know which is the best? To help you make the right choice, we've identified the top five best portable wet/dry vacuums today. These vacuums offer something special from powerful suction and high-capacity canisters to great features and excellent value for money. Read on to determine which wet/dry vacuum is right for you.

We concluded that the best-reviewed product is the CRAFTSMAN Wet/Dry Vacuum. This vacuum is perfect for tackling any mess in your home or workshop. And DEWALT 20V MAX Wet/Dry Vacuum is another choice for you while keeping the product's quality and functionality. Let's explore with us!

Products Suggest

TOP Choice #1 CRAFTSMAN Wet/Dry Vacuum
Our Score:
9.8
Craftsman

Unleash the might of the Heavy-Duty Wet/Dry Vac, featuring an impressive 6.5 Peak HP, rendering it the ultimate partner for conquering substantial garage, shop, or job site endeavors. Its formidable suction power guarantees a thorough cleanup, leaving no debris or mess in its wake. Moreover, this adaptable vacuum presents a built-in blower port at the rear, facilitating effortless removal of leaves and grass clippings from outdoor spaces and the garage, ensuring a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor tasks.

Prioritizing convenience, this vacuum integrates an oversized drain designed for effortless liquid emptying without hassle. This time-saving feature simplifies dealing with fluids and spills, elevating the user experience. In addition, the 2-1/2 inch shop vacuum hose incorporates Dual-Flex technology, granting a remarkable 180-degree mobility at both ends. This innovative design resists kinking and enables unrestricted movement, enhancing maneuverability during tasks. However, its power cable could be more secure. 

TOP Choice #2 DEWALT 20V MAX Wet/Dry Vacuum
Our Score:
9.6
DEWALT

The DEWALT Cordless Vacuum, equipped with a Gore HEPA wet/dry filter, is a powerful ally in maintaining cleanliness. This advanced filter technology efficiently captures 99.97% of dust particles at 0.3 microns, ensuring a thorough and effective clean. The vacuum features dual clean-up modes, presenting the option of debris removal through either the front utility nozzle or the expandable rubber hose. This adaptability accommodates a range of cleaning tasks. 

Moreover, with a 1/2 gallon tank featuring a heavy-duty latch, emptying and cleaning are a breeze, promoting convenience in upkeep. The washable filter further enhances the vacuum's practicality, offering simple maintenance. A quick tap or water rinse is all it takes to rejuvenate the filter's functionality. The heavy-duty rubber hose boasts both durability and flexibility, providing efficient suction and cleaning flexibility. An easily accessible large on/off switch, operable with one hand, streamlines operation. Nonetheless, its exhaust position could be better. 

TOP Choice #3 Stanley SL18910P-3 Wet/Dry Vacuum
Our Score:
9.5
Stanley

Combining versatility and robust power, this vacuum, driven by a 3-peak HP motor, is the ultimate solution for car cleanups. Featuring a 3-in-1 crevice nozzle and convenient onboard accessory storage, it delivers potent suction, effectively managing both liquid spills and dry debris, from dust to sawdust. For tidy organization, wrap the power cord around the top handle after use.

The vacuum's 2-in-1 functionality efficiently handles wet and dry messes, making it a dependable and multifunctional cleaning tool. Its user-friendly design prioritizes ease and convenience, enabling extended cleaning tasks with minimal fuss. With a cleaning reach exceeding 10 ft., and incorporating a 6 ft. power cord, you can effortlessly tackle larger cleaning areas without unplugging. Enhanced portability is offered by the sturdy top handle, allowing effortless transportation. However, the length of its hose could be a little longer. 

The Cordless 20V MAX Battery-Powered Vacuum boasts a dual-action feature, making it a versatile tool for various specific uses. Powered by a 20V MAX battery, this vacuum offers cordless operation, allowing you to move around without being tethered to an outlet. Its portable and efficient design is perfect for tackling many cleaning tasks.

With an easily accessible, washable/reusable filter, maintenance becomes a breeze. You can tap or water rinse the filter to keep it clean and functioning optimally, ensuring long-lasting performance and cost-effective use. The heavy-duty, crush-resistant, fully-integrated 5' hose, with a 1-1/4" diameter, guarantees durability, flexibility, and ease of use, allowing you to navigate obstacles and corners effortlessly. Convenience is further enhanced with the onboard hose and accessory storage, making the vacuum easy to carry and transport from one location to another. Unfortunately, it may be a bit small. 

The Vacmaster Professional Wet/Dry Vacuum, a versatile 3-in-1 cleaning solution, boasts a potent 5.5 Peak HP motor, making it an optimal choice for multiple cleaning tasks. Designed for effective low-pile carpet cleaning, spot cleaning car interiors, and revitalizing upholstered home furniture like sofas and chairs, it is a reliable companion for diverse cleaning needs.

With an 8-gallon capacity tank with a convenient drain port, this vacuum facilitates extended cleaning sessions and allows for effortless tank emptying, enhancing overall efficiency. The inclusion of multi-layer filtration adds to its prowess. For dry vacuuming, the washable cartridge filter and HEPA-material exhaust filter ensure thorough cleaning. Additionally, a foam wet filter caters to wet pick-up and shampoo modes. Remarkably, both the cartridge filter and foam filter are recyclable, reflecting an eco-conscious approach. Nonetheless, its sprayer feature could be better. 

6 WORKSHOP Wet/Dry Vacuum
Our Score:
9.0
WORKSHOP Wet/Dry Vacs

The Small Shop Vacuum Cleaner is a steadfast companion in your cleaning endeavors, boasting a robust flat-bottomed design that ensures unwavering stability. This construction is tailor-made for small shops, putting to rest any concerns of tipping over. The vacuum places convenience at the forefront, featuring a 10-foot power cord, a 4-foot hose, and essential shop vacuum attachments cleverly stored onboard. With these components readily accessible, tackling cleaning tasks becomes a breeze. 

Furthermore, its versatility is further accentuated by an integrated blowing port, extending its capabilities beyond traditional vacuuming. Seamlessly transitioning between suction and blowing, it adapts effortlessly to various cleaning needs. However, it's important to note that the vacuum's structure may be a bit flimsy. Nevertheless, it remains a practical choice for small shop settings, blending stability, convenience, and adaptability within its compact design.

7 PORTER-CABLE Wet/Dry Vacuum
Our Score:
8.8
PORTER-CABLE

Equipped with a high-performance motor, this versatile appliance delivers robust power for both suction and blowing tasks, all while ensuring quieter operation. With an impressive 960.0 watts of power, it is designed for floor-specific uses. Featuring a spacious 4-gallon capacity, this vacuum comes complete with a sturdy handle and lightweight construction, ensuring effortless portability. 

Additionally, its stainless steel base is thoughtfully designed to prevent tipping, while the built-in storage stage offers convenient storage for accessories. The 1-1/4” accessories hose diameter further enhances its functionality. Improving mobility, the vacuum is fitted with swiveling casters that enable seamless movement in any direction. This thoughtful design detail ensures ease of maneuverability across various surfaces. The only minor downside of this otherwise great device is that its power cord may be a bit short. 

8 WORKSHOP Wet/Dry Vacs Vacuum
Our Score:
8.6
WORKSHOP Wet/Dry Vacs

Shop vacuum has a built-in suction powered Dust Pan makes clean up quick and easy.

Gallons indicated reflect drum volume, not necessarily collection capacity, actual capacity dependent upon type of debris collected, condition of filter and other factors

Peak horsepower represents a level at or below the maximum horsepower output of an electric motor tested in a laboratory using a dynamometer

1-7/8-inch Expandable Locking Hose stretches from 2' to 7' for extended reach and conveniently stores on the small shop vacuum. Bleeder valve on the hose allows suction control.

Accessories Included: 2-ft. to 7-ft. Expandable Locking Hose, Soft Triangular Dusting Brush, Claw Nozzle, Flexible Crevice Tool, Car Nozzle, Standard Filter, Dust Collection Bag

The tough copolymer drum on this portable wet dry vacuum cleaner for cars resists dents and crack and will not rust.

Lightweight and portable, the large carry handle allows user to easily carry the portable wet dry vacuum cleaner to the car. Carry with one hand and let the wet dry vac clean the mess with the other. Conveniently stores in most cabinets when done.

Backed by a 5-Year Limited Warranty, this is the ideal portable wet dry vacuum cleaner for cars with auto vacuum accessories that are specifically designed for automotive cleaning challenges.

3-in-1 Function: The perfectly crafted features will leave you prepared to handle any mess. The airflow adjustable design is featured in the shop vacuum to handle your various needs and exceed your expectations. We provide a 2-in-1 crevice nozzle, a utility nozzle, and a multi-functional nozzle for cleaning wet liquid and dry garbage, debris. Also, You can easily switch to the blowing mode, helping you clean up fallen leaves in the garden and taking care of your lovely pet's hair.

Security You Can Trust: Don’t worry. Our hose will never fall off when the shop vac is working. 4 universal wheels ensure smooth movement in case the machine is dragged and becomes overturned. The widened latches will consistently lock the bucket tightly, preventing debris from scattering. Besides, all accessories feature onboard storage for easy transport. No mess is secure against you!

Reach Further than Ever: With over 23 ft of cleaning reach (5 ft hose, 3 ft extension wand, and 15 ft power cord), it is effortless for you to reach further and higher without bending over or repeatedly having to move the machine! Even a large space can be cleaned in no time. Why not try it? Take back your space!

Cleaner Air, for Fewer Worries: You no longer need to be concerned with replacing the filter by owning the VEVOR's small shop vac because VEVOR adopts a washable and reusable cartridge filter that can be easily assembled or disassembled. The advanced filter can catch debris as small as .3 microns, protecting your family from polluted air.

Unstoppable 5 HP Suction: Our wet dry vac brings you efficient suction while remaining quiet during tough operations thanks to its strong 5-peak HP motor. It can achieve a 65 CFM airflow required for any tough cleanup job, leaving you feeling unstoppable. Thanks to its large 4-gallon capacity, the vac makes your whole space cleanup job a breeze, so you don’t have to empty the bucket frequently. Ideal for cleaning homes, garages, cars, trucks, and vans. It is ETL listed.

【Applications Target】: Powerful, lightweight, versatile, suitable for home, basement, garage, workshop, woodshop, hotel, car wash, laundry, shop, etc.

【Easy to Assemble & Use】: Comes ready to use out of the box, just snap on the casters and piping. Easily switch to the blowing mode, helping you take care of your lovely pet's hair.

【Portable & Compact】: Equipped with handle and 4 casters, easy to carry; 4 gallon SS tank keeps long cleaning time of using to avoid emptying the container frequently.

【Terrific Suction】: Our wet and dry vacuum cleaners with 3 HP motors provide 900W power, and the powerful suction deals with daily wet/dry pickup quickly.

【Versatile & Handy】: Multiple nozzles and brush meet different cleaning needs; with an 8 ft cord and 6 ft hose, easy to reach further and higher without bending over or repeatedly moving the machine.

Tips and strategies for selecting the best portable wet dry vacuum on the market

People are always attempting to make the best decisions for themselves and their families. Whether they're shopping for new shoes or a new automobile, knowing which best portable wet dry vacuum to buy on the market might be difficult. Fortunately, this article gives some amazing keyword selection tips and tactics, so you don't have to worry about making a bad option!

Portability

Think about where you are going to need to use your wet/dry vac. If you will be taking it up and down stairs frequently, pay attention to the size and weight of the tank when it's full. If portability is a priority, try to find a model with a smaller tank and a built-in storage area for all the accessories so you can take it all in one go. Also make sure to factor in the amount of storage space you have available when deciding on what size wet/dry vac to buy.

Size And Weight

Wet/dry vacs come in a variety of sizes and weights, ranging from the lightweight, compact models to the larger, commercial canister models. The smallest shop-type vacs are usually no heavier than 3 pounds and are around a foot in height and width, whereas heavy-duty shop vacs can be up to 35 pounds and reach up to 3 feet in height.

Corded Vs. Cordless

If you need to do some heavy-duty cleaning or need an uninterrupted source of power, then a wet/dry vacuum with a cord is the best choice. However, for quick indoor cleaning or for cleaning up limited debris, like wood shavings, a cordless vacuum is a great option. These vacuums are usually lightweight and use the same lithium-ion battery as a drill or saw.

Filtration

The filters in wet/dry vacuums can range greatly in type and function, but their main job is to capture dust and other small particles, preventing them from becoming airborne again. Most shop vacuums have a pleated paper filter with rubber gaskets on either side to stop dust from passing through the filter and into the tank.

Power And Performance

The power of a wet/dry vac is determined by the horsepower (hp) of the motor, rather than its performance potential. Although a higher hp rating generally indicates a more powerful motor, the suction ability of a vacuum is also influenced by the length and diameter of its hose and other features.

Hose Length

The length of the hose for a vacuum cleaner varies from 6 to 30 feet depending on its type. This length provides the convenience of being able to move the vacuum to a central location and clean the entire room without having to drag the machine around. However, it is important to store the hose properly after use in order to avoid it getting tangled.

FAQs

What is a portable wet dry vacuum?

A portable wet-dry vacuum is a type of vacuum cleaner that is designed to clean both wet and dry debris. It is typically smaller and more lightweight than a traditional wet/dry vacuum, making it easier to move around and take on the go.

What are the benefits of a portable wet dry vacuum?

Portable wet-dry vacuums offer many benefits, including portability, versatility, and convenience. They are great for cleaning up small messes in tight spaces and larger messes in larger areas. They can also be used for wet and dry messes, making them much more versatile than traditional vacuum cleaners.

What kind of debris can a portable wet dry vacuum clean?

Portable wet-dry vacuums can clean debris, including pet hair, dust, dirt, and leaves. They are also great for cleaning up spills and spot cleaning.

How do I use a portable wet dry vacuum?

Before using a portable wet-dry vacuum, it is important to read the user manual and become familiar with all of the features and functions of the machine. Start by attaching the appropriate nozzle for the job, then turn on the machine and begin vacuuming. Make sure to empty the collection bin after each use and clean the filters regularly.

Conclusion

Choosing the best portable wet dry vacuum for your purposes might be a difficult challenge. It is critical to remember what you want to achieve with the purchase as well as any factors that may influence your selection. 
Whether it's as basic as reading reviews before purchasing or inspecting images of best portable wet dry vacuum on the market from numerous perspectives. When you wish to locate another one, you may also look at the RIDGID Wet Dry Vacuum. Now, let’s pick one for you!


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About Jane Austen

Jane Austen

Jane Austen is a Senior Editor at KarenMiller.net, where she covers all topics related to toys, gifts, and holiday and home decor. With a keen eye for trends and a passion for discovering new products, Jane ensures that readers are always up to date with the latest and most innovative items on the market.

Jane’s expertise lies in her ability to provide comprehensive and informative content. From in-depth toy reviews to curated gift guides, she goes above and beyond to deliver articles that not only inform but also inspire. Her goal is to assist readers in making well-informed purchasing decisions that will bring joy and excitement to their lives.

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