The best wet dry shop vac models can eradicate a variety of debris-riddled nooks and crannies in your home. Whereas most of these devices tackle jobs which other vacuums cannot, it should be noted that not all of them are equal since some outperform others. Wet-dry shop vacuums come in different shapes, sizes, suction power, and even price points.
If you’re looking for the best wet/dry shop vacuum designed to handle even the stickiest and messiest situations, then our shop vacuum reviews will be of great help. After spending more than 40 hours testing about 50 different Wet/Dry & shop vacuums, we found that the Vacmaster 12 Gallon, 5 Peak HP Wet-Dry Vacuum with Detachable Blower, VBV1210 is the absolute best model when it comes to eliminating watery messes and tiny dirt invaders. In this wet dry & shop vac reviews, we’ve put together an assortment of the best shop vacs with the latest innovative components to meet your cleaning needs.
Best Shop & Wet/Dry Vacuum Reviews
1. Vacmaster vbv1210 Best Wet/Dry Vacuum
The Vacmaster line of products includes the Vacmaster VBV1210 model designed for handling tough messes at home, office, or garage. This best wet dry vac provides true professional performance and unparalleled power to meet your every day cleaning needs. The Vacmaster 12-Gallon VBV1210 is a convenient 2-in-1 device that offers a powerful 5 peak HP wet dry vac, which easily transitions to a 210 MPH leaf blower with a simple push of a button.
With this best wet dry vac under $100, you no longer have to hassle with cumbersome locks and latches. The wet dry vacuum consists of a rugged 12-gallon polypropylene tank, XL drain port for quick emptying, onboard accessory storage, and 11 accessories for both vacuuming and leaf blowing applications. This versatile and powerful unit effortlessly converts from a basic wet-dry vac to a detachable blower.
The Vacmaster VBV1210 is easy to assemble, switch between modes, and offers powerful suction for all sorts of cleanup tasks. With the tough polypropylene tank construction alongside heavy-duty casters, you can rest assured the tool will last for years and you can rely on it for any cleaning job. The 12-foot cord offers adequate reach and conveniently wraps for a secure storage, while the 12-gallon tank works in unison with an XL drain port to eliminate downtime.
The Vacmaster 12-Gallon VBV1210 is the best wet/dry vacuum you can purchase and own. It is ultra-powerful, quiet, and has amazing tools suitable for vacuuming and leaf blowing applications. You can assemble it in minutes, plus the ergonomic handles ensure comfortable portability and dependable operation.
2. Shop-Vac 5989300 Best Shop Wet Dry Vacuum
Shop-Vac 5989300 5-Gallon with 4.5 peak horsepower is the best shop wet dry vacuum model that has graced many shop vac reviews across the web. It gives you the much-needed power to pick up wet or dry messes in your basement, workshop or garage. This tool can handle all heavy-duty cleaning thanks to the 4.5 peak horsepower motor that combines with the 5-gallon stainless steel tank to provide hassle-free cleaning.
The availability of the full circumference dolly makes this device maneuverable, while top and side carry handles along with onboard cord enhance its portability. This powerful and adaptable wet dry shop vacuum is an all-in-one solution for all your cleaning needs, right from simple household messes through to heavy-duty jobsite cleanup. It comes equipped with a wide variety of accessories, filters and adapters that make it a versatile equipment for any task.
The wet dry shop vac not only includes versatile accessories but also a positive lid latch along with the rear blower port. Some of the available accessories comprise a 7-ft hose, crevice tool, cartridge filter, floor nozzle, 3 extension wands, gulper nozzle, and 5-8 gallon disposable filter bag. All these make tough cleanup tasks rather easy and enjoyable.
Although it proves difficult to assemble for the first time, you’ll find that the Shop-Vac 5989300 is pretty easy to put together once you get used to it. It provides you with powerful cleaning for eradicating wet or dry messes everywhere including your basement, garage or workshop. It also comes with plenty of accessories that are ideal for car detailers, pet groomers, homemakers, landscapers, etc.
3. Ridgid WD1450 Wet/Dry Vacuum
Ridgid WD1450 is a high-performance wet/dry vacuum with 6 peak HP motor that executes super powerful suction. It is able to tackle all tough jobsite cleanup tasks. It comes with a patented scroll noise reduction function that ensures quiet operation all the time.
The unit provides a seamless and noise-free operation by allowing you to precisely control the flow of air through the vacuum. Furthermore, the Ridgid WD1450 entails 4 swivel casters that offer flawless 360-degree mobility. It also consists of a quick release accessory storage bag, which helps you keep all accessories at reach and close by when need arises.
The quick release accessory storage bag is easily detachable to allow for quick and effortless emptying of debris. The unit also highlights a 2-piece drum whose advanced rugged construction meets the higher demands common on the jobsite. What’s more, the Ridgid WD1450 14-Gallon 6-Horsepower Wet/Dry Vacuum features the 3-layer Fine Dust filter for capturing fine dust particles including the dry wall dust.
The Ridgid 14-Gallon WD1450 is one of the best wet dry vacuum models with an excellent peak horsepower for tackling stubborn jobsite messes. The tug-A-long hose never pulls loose during operation, and the large carry handle enables you to lift the vac with little effort. With a powerful exhaust airstream, you can direct through the vacuum hose and blow tough messes from sidewalks, decks, and garages.
4. BISSELL CrossWave Wet-Dry Vacuum
BISSELL CrossWave 2551 is one of the best cordless handheld wet/dry vacuum models that can help you wash and vacuum your floors simultaneously with no hassle of a cord. It’s safe and effective for vacuuming carpets, rugs, sealed wood floors, tiles, rubber floor mats, laminates, pressed wood floors, linoleum, and so much more. With a rechargeable 36V lithium-ion battery and cordless freedom, this tool gives you a powerful, lightweight and convenient way to wash or vacuum your hard surfaces and revive your area rugs.
It features a quick, one-touch cleanout cycle mode whereby you fill water into the tray and press a button to flush out clean water through the vac. Also available is the 3-in-1 docking station for charging, storing and cleaning the BISSELL CrossWave 2551. The charge-time takes 4 hours, and the CrossWave Cordless runs for more than 25 minutes before it requires the next recharge.
Since the device allows you to vacuum and wash simultaneously, you’ll be able to save time when it comes to keeping your multiple floors clean. The two-tank technology separates clean water from dirty water. By so doing, it allows you to clean your floors with a mix of clean water and formula all the time.
Overall, the BISSELL CrossWave 2551 is a safe and effective cordless wet/dry vacuum that vacuums and washes floors at the same time. The built-in 36V lithium-ion battery gives you over 25 minutes runtime of cord-free performance. Most importantly, it includes a multi-surface brush roll, a 3-in-1 docking station, and multi-surface pet formula consisting of febreze freshness for thorough cleanup.
5. Craftsman XSP 12 Gallon 5.5 Peak HP Wet/Dry Vac
The Craftsman XSP is another best wet and dry vacuum that shows up in numerous wet dry vac reviews. It provides more than 27 foot of cleaning reach using a combination of 20-inch power cord, 7-inch hose, and extension wands. For that reason, it enables you to reach wider areas without the need to unplug the unit.
The available two-and-a-half inch diameter secure fit hose systems ensure the hose remains in place throughout the operation. With the powerful 5.5 peak horsepower motor, you can be certain to blast away stubborn debris on all sorts of jobsite cleanup projects. There are two extensions that allow you to stand while using the device.
The button located on top is pretty easy to start and stop with zero hassles. Additionally, the Craftsman XSP 12-Gallon includes a crevice tool, a squeegee tool, and a gulper for handling numerous cleaning tasks to perfection. For effortless mobility, the unit is hands down light and easy to move without feeling like it’s going to tip over.
Despite these few drawbacks, the Craftsman XSP is one of the excellent home help machines to buy. We like it because of the gutter cleaning accessory kit included, helping you clean your gutter when it gets filled up with leaves and small branches. This tool has great suction and more pieces of the attachment hoses that make cleanup a cinch.
6. Armor All AA255 Utility Wet/Dry Vacuum
Armor All AA255 has the capacity to clean up all messes, both liquids and solids, offering what seems to be unlimited uses. It brings forth the 2.5-gallon polypropylene tank, which is small enough to haul around but large enough to handle most cleanup tasks. With the 2 horsepower motor, the device provides adequate suction power, along with an easy transition to a blower function.
This tool is equipped with an auto shut-off function for detecting fill limit, hence preventing the likelihood of overflows. For ease transportation and storage, it has an ergonomic top handle and onboard accessory storage. Also available is a built-in air and noise diffuser whose function is to minimize volume and keep noise at minimum.
This vac is specially designed to suit car enthusiasts, thanks to a compact design and unparalleled power. It can easily pickup the dirt all over your auto interior to ensure a thorough cleaning. Other amazing features include a 10-ft cord with wrap, reusable cloth filter, 1.25-inch hose, reusable foam sleeve, deluxe car nozzle, 2-in-1 utility nozzle, blower nozzle, crevice tool and detail brush.
In short, the Armor All aa255 utility wet/dry vacuum is pretty good when it comes to suction power and the available attachments. It does well with a mix of dry and wet vacuuming. More importantly, its lightweight portability makes it ideal for quick cleanup and detailing tasks.
7. Stanley Wet/Dry Vacuum
The Stanley Wet/Dry Vac with 4 Peak Horsepower and Stainless Steel Tank is one of the best wet & dry vacuums whose high-performance motor guarantees maximum power. It’s ideal for a variety of wet and dry pickups in your vehicle, workshop, garage, or home. It equally features a lightweight and compact design for effortless transportation and mobility across most surfaces.
This model comes with a 10-inch power cord with cord wrap for easy organization and storage. Also, there are 4 swivel casters that provide a reliable multi-direction maneuverability when cleaning different floors. The large switch button with waterproof design ensures easy and secure operation all the time.
The Stanley wet/dry vacuum provides superior performance irrespective of the job at hand or the environment under which the job is conducted. It does make even the toughest jobs easy, saving you time and effort in the long run. Besides, it includes plenty of accessories for carrying out a variety of cleanup tasks, such as garage cleanups.
This Stanley Wet/Dry Vac is powerful, silent, and rolls just easily. Its compact and lightweight design allows you to carry the unit with little effort, while swivel casters give you unsurpassed maneuverability. This is one of the best options for a shop vac because it’s affordable and does what it’s required to do.
8. Vacmaster Professional Wet/Dry Vac
The Vacmaster Professional Wet/Dry vacuum is suitable for a range of household and garage applications. Its portable power is engineered to tackle a wide variety of messes with ease and convenience. The high water life motor provides superior power and suction to address different cleaning needs at home, in the garage, or around the shop.
Unlike other standard wet/dry vacs available today, the Best Series Vacmaster 5-Gallon VFB511B0201 unleashes unmatched superiority and high performance over the competition. It has the best-in-class power, unquestioned suction, and fantastic reliability. It gives you the onboard hose, accessory, as well as power cord in order to eliminate unnecessary hassle and minimize storage space.
With over 25 ft of cleaning reach, you can be sure to reach farther without having to move the machine or unplug the unit. The large dust-sealed on/off switch allows you to control the power effectively during use, while the heavy-duty and quality construction means the unit will last for years. Above all, the Vacmaster gives you up to 8 different accessories for virtually any task at hand.
Drawbacks aside, the Vacmaster professional is a very powerful wet/dry vacuum that is well built to last. It has strong suction for a variety of projects, with 8 accessories included to enable you to tackle nearly any task imaginable. You can convert it to a handheld blower for blowing away plenty of leaves and other messes from your garage, driveway, and other areas.
9. Craftsman XSP 16 Gallon Wet/Dry Vac
The Craftsman xsp 16 gallon is another fantastic unit offering innovative cleaning power technology. It’s designed to address a wide range of cleaning needs, including the most stubborn jobsite cleanup projects. It does have immense power to vacuum metal shards, wood chunks, sawdust or nails at the jobsite, in the shop, in the garage, or at home.
Some of the few projects Craftsman 16-Galllon XSP can handle include clearing drywall chunks, picking up liquid in a flooded basement, removing dry leaves and other debris from gutters, and eliminating screws and broken glass at the jobsite. It has an ingenious top-tray storage that allows you to conveniently stow mechanic tools, screws, power drills, and other necessities on top of the unit. This makes these items easily accessible whenever need arises.
There’s also onboard hose and power cord organizers for eliminating unnecessary hassle and reducing overall storage space. Moreover, the unit comprises an XL drain for quickly emptying liquids from the tank. You can reach wider areas without having to unplug the unit thanks to 20-inch power cord extension wands along with a 7-inch hose.
One good thing about craftsman xsp 16 gallon wet & dry vac is that it sucks pretty well and tackles the toughest messes at the jobsite, in the garage, or at home. It has 360-degree heavy-duty swivel casters for enhanced mobility across most surfaces, plus integrated ergonomic handles for easy transport and comfort in operation. Again, the large dust-sealed on/off switch gives you absolute control over the power.
10. Vacmaster VQ607SFD 6 Gallon Wet Dry Vacuum
Another best wet/dry vacuum from the Vacmaster family is the Vacmaster VQ607SFD model whose 3 peak HP single-speed motor guarantees the exceptional performance. It proves great for a wide range of cleanup operations at home, at the office or in the garage, with a rugged and maneuverable design for effortless handling. Like most other devices from the Vacmaster line of products, the Vacmaster VQ607SFD is ultra-lightweight, portable and powerful.
The machine has a weather resistant 6-gallon stainless steel tank which affords it a professional look and ensures it can withstand the most demanding jobsite cleanup tasks. The robust 3 peak horsepower motor gives you the sufficient suction to carry out all your household cleanup projects.
This vacuum does better than expected in many scenarios, whether it is vacuuming carpeted stairs or blowing outside leaves. It’s equally super quiet, plus it comes with onboard storage where you can place your accessories and have easy access to them when you need. Also available is a locking mechanism in the hose that ensures it stays connected to the chassis without a problem.
Generally speaking, the Vacmaster VQ607SFD offers an unmatched reliability when it comes to vacuuming or blowing applications. The versatile multi-floor nozzle is perfectly designed for cleaning carpets, bare floors, and more. Most importantly, it easily converts to a blower to provide multi-use cleaning abilities.
11. Shop Vac All Around EZ
The Shop-Vac 5895200 is among the best wet dry shop vac models using type B filter bag alongside type R foam sleeve. It has an excellent water suction rate, enabling it to do a better job when it comes to cleaning all messes. Although it appears compact, it still affords portable power with the convenience of a handheld model.
This wet dry shop vac is powerful and adaptable, so it becomes an all-in-one solution for all household messes as well as heavy-duty cleanup tasks at the jobsite. It also features an assortment of filters, adapters, and accessories that make it a versatile device for any task – whether big or small.
Regarding quality, this all-in-one multi-surface wet dry shop vac comes with superior quality attachments created for efficiency, convenience and power. The included dual floor nozzle allows you to transition from bare floors to carpets without a problem.
The Shop-Vac 2.5-Gallon 2.5 Peak HP 5895200 model is a versatile wet dry shop vac whose rear blower port allows for instant conversion from a vac to a powerful blower. Perhaps what makes it stand out is the fact that it is wall mountable, so you can free up your floor space in hallways, laundry rooms, garages, or even closets. Not only is it lightweight and portable, but it also includes plenty of accessories for excellent wet and dry pickup.
12. DEWALT DCV581H
The DEWALT DC581H is a corded/cordless wet-dry vacuum that is compact, powerful, and quiet. It is more portable compared to most shop vacs with a rechargeable battery, and it also gives you an opportunity to plug into the wall. An AC outlet powers up the corded operation, while an 18-v or 20-v MAX battery juices up the cordless operation.
The vacuum highlights a HEPA-rated wet-dry filter that can trap up to 99.97% of dust and allergens with the 1 micron full efficiency. The supposed filter is not only accessible but also washable and reusable, only needing tap water for rinsing. Also available is a fully integrated 5-inch heavy duty crush-resistant hose that offers flexibility, durability, and the ease of use.
The unit is easy to carry and transport thanks to the on-board hose, allowing you to clean up various surfaces with less effort. Also, you’ll get access to a broad nozzle and crevice tools to enable you clean faster with fewer passes.
The DEWALT DC581H is purposely designed to give you the much-needed convenience as far as cleaning is concerned. It is small, lightweight, and ergonomically designed such that the hose and tools are ingeniously integrated into the unit without protrusions. You can use it to pick up stuffs like wood shavings and drywall dust.
13. Shop-Vac 2021000 Micro Wet/Dry Vac
Another great wet dry shop vac model is the Shop-Vac 202100. This product uses type A filter bag and type MM foam sleeve, and comes with other niceties like a collapsible handle, wall bracket, and multi-function accessories. It offers compact portable power using a combination of a 1-gallon tank and a 1-horsepower motor, allowing you to perform your cleaning duties with ease.
Being lightweight and portable, it makes it pretty convenient to blast away any household debris. The collapsible top carry handle makes it effortless to transport to wherever you want, and it is wall mountable thanks to the availability of wall brackets for vacuum and accessories. In terms of wet or dry pickup, the Shop-Vac 202100 Micro Wet/Dry Vacuum does a decent job for those sudden spills that may occur.
There are several versatile accessories included to make cleanup a breeze, such as a 4-foot hose, gulper nozzle, crevice tool, and reusable dust filter bag among others. These accessories allow you to quickly clean the household messes and heavy-duty jobsite cleanup. These superior quality accessories allow for power, convenience, and efficiency needed by pet groomers, landscapers, and even car detailers.
Many customers agree that this little monster does a perfect job in both light and heavy-duty tasks. Despite its small size, it’s extremely powerful and can serve the purpose with which it’s intended. Above all, it’s wall mountable and super easy storage.
14. Shop-Vac 6-Gallon 3.0-Peak HP Pro
The Shop-Vac 6-Gallon 3 Peak Horsepower Pro Series is another perfect wet/dry vacuum that you can use for wet or dry pickup in garages and basements. It has a non-metal container that is much better than steel because it never rusts. And, it’s extremely versatile for all light DIY projects and general home cleaning needs.
The longevity of motor and suction of this vacuum is unparalleled, and many wet dry vacuum reviews highlight that fact. It includes a 6-ft power cord, top carry handle, and side tank handles for secure and hassle-free handling. For effortless cleanup, it comprises versatile accessory assortment, such as 8-ft lock-on hose, 3 extension wands, gulper nozzle, crevice tool, etc.
When you want to carry out workshops, vehicle and basement cleanups, the Shop-Vac 6-Gallon 3 Peak Horsepower Pro Series does the perfect job. Unlike steel tanks, the durable plastic tank never rusts and will give you a longer service. Also, the side and top carry handles ensure the overall ease of handling and operation.
15. PORTER-CABLE PCC795B 20V MAX Wet/Dry Vacuum
Last but not least in our shop & wet dry vacuum reviews is the PORTER-CABLE 2-Gallon PCC795B unit. This portable device features a 2-gallon tank for a versatile wet/dry cleanup applications. And, it has a powerful suction for expeditious cleanups.
The available 7ft-8inch hose includes a wraparound storage solution for secure and space-saving storage. Also, there’s a convenient onboard accessory storage where you can store all the attachments at a close reach. This unit is sold as a bare tool, with battery and charger sold separately.
Although it’s nowhere near a regular shop vac, the PORTER-CABLE 2-Gallon PCC795B has got a fair amount of suction for light cleanup needs. It’s so light that you can easily walk around with it as you clean the rooms. Of course, it doesn’t afford the strongest suction, but it’s just adequate for your needs.
Things to Look for When Selecting the Best Shop & Wet/Dry Vacs
There are several variables to consider when zoning in on the best shop vacs and wet/dry vacs. Some of these workhorse cleaning gears are designed to handle the dirtiest jobs, but others simply cannot meet the expectations. Below are a few key things you should be looking for in a wet dry and shop vacuum:
Capacity
Shop vacuums come in different capacities to suit the unique needs of everyone. The small ones have 2-6 gallons; medium ones have 6-14 gallons, and high capacity ones have 14-18 gallons. Units with medium capacity are adequate for most indoor and outdoor cleaning tasks.
Tank
Shop vacs can either have plastic or stainless steel tank, both of which have their pros and cons. On the one hand, plastic tanks are considered lighter and less vulnerable to dents. On the other hand, stainless steel tanks are easier to clean, sturdier, and more hard-wearing in the long run.
Design
The best wet dry shop vac has numerous extension tools as well as a lengthy hose and power cord that can extend up to 20 feet. Similarly, it has a hose locking system and a durable construction so that it can provide services for an extended time span. A top-rated shop vac includes different attachments, so you’ll be able to clean a variety of surfaces in your home with no hassle.
Filtration Mechanism
This is one of the best features to look out for when purchasing a shop and wet dry vac. Having a filter isn’t necessary if you intend to use the device for larger objects devoid of fine particles. However, a filter will be a valuable feature if you are using the shop vac to vacuum fine materials like sawdust or ash. It will help trap and seize those tiny particles.
Different shop vacs come with different filters. Some use cartridges which are simple to clean and reuse, while others have cloth bags which call for replacement after a couple of uses. Models with a pleated cartridge filter are less likely to leak and easier to swap, unlike those using a foam or cloth filter.
Attachments
The attachments you choose will depend on how you need to use your vacuum. If you plan to clean hard-to-reach areas, you’ll want to choose shop vacuums that have extension wands for added reach. Shop vacs that include crevice tools are ideal for cleaning cracks or corners, while those that comprise brush nozzles work best for cleaning bulky debris.
Regarding the blower, you might want to choose a unit that comes with a special wide tool for cleaning a wider surface. Also, look for models with squeegees and concentration nozzles for wet cleanup. We recommend evaluating how you want to use your shop vac in order to determine a particular unit that’s right for your needs.
Price or Cost
Shop and wet dry vacuums vary widely as far as price is concerned. You can even the best wet dry vac under $100 on Amazon and other eCommerce sites. More often than not, the average price of most popular shop vacs on eCommerce sites is about $80.
In our review above, we tested a wide range of models costing as little as $45 and as much as $200. We passed all of them through a series of tests and noted they all perform pretty well. Rest assured the products we’ve reviewed can clean up the mess after one pass.
FAQs about Shop Wet-Dry Vacuum
1. What is the most powerful wet/dry vacuum?
Based on our series of tests, we found that the Vacmaster VBV1210 has supreme power, design, and durability. This innovative device from the Vacmaster family also offers the most balanced combination of usability and versatility. It has the best-in-class airflow, ensuring you easily tackle tough tasks around your garage, shop, or job site.
2. Can I use a wet/dry vac for a pond vacuum?
Garden ponds call for annual spring cleanup to eliminate stubborn algae and other debris. While you can purchase a pond vacuum designed for blasting the debris away from the pond, you really don’t have to incur the extra expense if you have a wet/dry vacuum.
Besides, having both vacuums can cause the extra bulk in storage. If you already own a wet/dry vacuum in your home, you can securely use it for a pond, especially if you don’t have a pond vacuum. All you have to do is to remove the bag from the canister and you’re good to get started vacuuming water.
3. What is the best shop vac on the market?
Regarding the best shop vacuum for heavy duty cleaning, the Shop-Vac 5989300 does a perfect job. Not only is it powerful and adaptable, but it also includes versatile accessories for effortless cleanup. It does take on tough messes at the jobsite, workshop, and even home.
Final Verdict
Phew! Now we’ve come to the end of our best shop & wet dry vacuum reviews folks. We’ve been testing and researching the best shop and wet-dry vacs since late last year, and we’ve devoted hundreds of hours to our course. We strive to focus on a wide range of cleaning capabilities in the products we recommend so that you can handle the different messes with ease.
Based on our series of tests and detailed research, we recommend the Vacmaster VBV1210 as our favorite unit. It is well-built, super quiet, and has an impressive cleaning mechanism. Hopefully, this review of the best shop and wet dry vacuums will be of great help to you.