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Homeowners and contractors alike depend on the take-no-prisoners, and heavy-duty suction power of a wet/dry vacuum. From sawdust in the workshop to an overflowing bathtub, a wet/dry vacuum can make easy work of a tough mess.

Although Consumer Reports does not currently test wet/dry vacuums, we have put them through their paces in the past. We sucked up screws, wood pieces, and heavier debris in a demanding test of suction. A one-gallon spill tested their wet-cleaning ability.

We compared how well they picked up simulated wood flour, and then measured how much of that dust leaked into the air. Finally, we judged the ease of use of each vacuum’s features and accessories. Use this guide for determining the right model for your needs and budget.

Major brands are pushing stackable and cordless wet/dry vacuums and other new designs as they try to get wet/dry vacuums out of the basement and into the kitchen and living room. But cleaning ability should be your primary concern.

Consider Size
The largest models generally delivered the quickest, most thorough cleaning and the most capacity, and they tended to be the best equipped. But you may need a smaller, lighter vacuum—perhaps even a mini-sized model—if your home is shy on storage space or has more than one level.

Don’t Believe Capacity-Claim Hype
Most of the manufacturers overstated the fluid capacity of the vacuums we tested, some by as much as eight gallons. While those claims may correlate with the size of the vacuum’s collection area, our measurements are based on actual vacuuming until each vacuum’s internal float rose high enough to block further suction.

Do Protect Your Hearing
All of the wet/dry vacuums we tested were loud. Some reach 85 decibels, the level at which we recommend wearing ear protection to prevent hearing damage.

Wet/Dry Vacuum Types

Wet/dry vacuums are relatively basic. So choose one based on your cleaning needs, your storage—and how far you’ll need to move it. Here are the types of wet/dry vacuums to consider.

A woman using a mini-sized wet/dry vacuum to clean up a spill in the kitchen.

Mini-Sized Wet/Dry Vacuums

These sacrifice the most performance and capacity for the least weight and easiest storage.

A person using a small wet/dry vacuum to clean up spilled kitty litter.

Small Wet/Dry Vacuums

Consider these if you’re willing to sacrifice performance and capacity for easier portability.

Photo of a man using a medium-sized wet/dry vacuum to clean the floor.

Medium-Sized Wet/Dry Vacuums

These offer a good balance of performance and compactness.

Photo of a man using a large wet/dry vacuum to clean a rug.

Large Wet/Dry Vacuums

Powerful and best equipped for challenging cleanups. They hold the most debris, but can be heavy and bulky—especially when full of water. 

Vacuum Features That Count

Small details may help make wet/dry vacuums more versatile. Here are the features to consider:

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Several wet/dry vacuum cleanup tools.
A wet/dry vacuum that shows its dual-swivel hose fittings.
A person using a wet/dry vacuum to clean ashes out of a patio grill.
A person using a wet/dry vacuum with an extension wand on it.
A person putting a new, clean filter into a wet/dry vacuum.
A hose lock for a wet/dry vacuum.
A woman cleaning her car using a wet/dry vacuum that's mounted on the garage wall.
A wet/dry vacuum pump.
A wet/dry vacuum's tool storage.
A wet/dry vacuum hose attachment.

Cleanup Tools

Most models come with a utility nozzle, for bulky debris, and a crevice nozzle for tight spots. Some also have a special nozzle for car interiors and an insert for a dusting brush. A squeegee attachment helps with spills. The one-piece version on some vacuums is more convenient than the insert on others.

Source : Consumer Reports