What Is the Best Shop Vac | A Comprehensive Review
A shop vac is not your ordinary vacuum cleaner. It’s a heavy-duty machine that can tackle any mess, whether it’s wet or dry, large or small, fine or coarse. A shop vac can suck up water, wood chips, nails, sand, and even fireplace ashes. It can also blow air to clear leaves, dust, or debris. A shop vac has a large tank holding several gallons of liquid or solid waste and a powerful motor that can generate high airflow and suction.
A shop vac also comes with various attachments and accessories that can fit different surfaces and situations. You can use a shop vac to clean your garage, workshop, car, boat, patio, or any other place that needs a thorough cleaning. But how do you find the best shop vac for your specific needs? There are many factors to consider, such as size, power, noise level, durability, and price.
Benefits of Using The Best Shop Vac
Using the best shop vac offers numerous benefits for homeowners and professionals alike. It provides powerful suction, making it highly efficient in cleaning up debris, dust, and liquids in workshops, garages, and construction sites. Its versatility allows for both wet and dry cleanup, saving time and effort.
The best shop vacs often come with various attachments, enhancing their usability for tasks like car detailing or unclogging drains. These vacuums typically feature durable construction and filters, ensuring longevity and reducing maintenance costs. Investing in a top-quality shop vac ensures efficient, hassle-free cleaning and contributes to a cleaner, safer workspace.
Review of What Is The Best Shop Vac
1. CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon
- Brand: Craftsman
- Manufacturer: Emerson Tool Company
- Color: Red
- Dimensions: Height: 26.7 Inches Width: 23.8 Inches Length: 21.03 Inches
- Weight: 26.0 Pounds
If you are looking for a powerful and versatile wet/dry vacuum cleaner, look no further than the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon. This heavy-duty machine can handle any mess, from dust and debris to liquids and spills. With a 6.5 peak HP motor, a large 16-gallon tank, and a dual-flex hose with multiple attachments, you can easily clean any surface. Whether you need to vacuum your car, garage, workshop, basement, or patio, the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon has you covered.
It features a built-in drain port for easy emptying of liquids, a Qwik Lock filter for fast and secure replacement, and an integrated blowing port for added versatility. The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon is your home or business’s ultimate wet/dry vacuum cleaner.
Features
- HEAVY-DUTY: Powerful 6.5 Peak HP provides extra power for large projects in the garage, shop and on the jobsite
- BUILT-IN BLOWER PORT: Rear blowing port on this wet dry vac allows for quick cleaning of leaves and grass clippings in your garage and outdoors
- OVERSIZED DRAIN: Built-in oversized drain on the wet/dry vac allows for convenient emptying of liquids
- DUAL-FLEX TECHNOLOGY: 2-1/2 in. diameter shop vacuum hose features Dual-Flex technology for 180-degree mobility at each end to resist kinking
- ACCESSORIES INCLUDED: 2-1/2 in. x 7 ft. POS-I-LOCK Dual-Flex Hose, 2 Extension Wands, Utility Nozzle, Car Nozzle, Wet Nozzle, Qwik Lock Filter and Dust Collection Bag
- WARRANTY: 3 Year Limited Warranty
2. CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17155 10 Gallon
- Brand: Craftsman
- Manufacturer: Emerson Tool Company
- Color: Steel
- Dimensions: Height: 25.13 Inches Width: 17.4 Inches Length: 17.7 Inches
- Weight: 15.68 Pounds
The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17155 10 Gallon 6.0 Peak HP Stainless Steel Wet/Dry Vac is a portable shop vacuum with attachments that can be used for both wet and dry cleaning tasks. It has a powerful motor that provides strong suction and can handle large debris and liquids with ease. The vacuum has a 10-gallon capacity and comes with a variety of attachments, including a utility nozzle, crevice tool, and extension wands, making it versatile for different cleaning needs. The product comes with a 3-year limited warranty1.
Features
- HEAVY-DUTY: Stainless steel drum construction provides durability
- POWERFUL: 6.0 peak horsepower motor provides powerful, heavy-duty suction
- VERSATILE: Ideal for jobs around the garage, home, renovations, and jobsite
- EASY FILTER REPLACEMENT: Filter Fastening System allows quick and easy wet dry vacuum filter changes
- ACCESSORIES INCLUDED: 2-1/2-in. x 7-ft. Hose, 2 Locking Extension Wands, Utility Nozzle, Car Nozzle, and Qwik Lock Filter
- WARRANTY: 3 Year Limited Warranty
3. Vacmaster Professional – Professional Wet/Dry Vac
- Brand: Vacmaster
- Manufacturer: Cleva North America
- Color: Black
- Dimensions: Height: 23.8 Inches Width: 19.8 Inches Length: 19.8 Inches
- Weight: 29.0 Pounds
If you are looking for a powerful and versatile wet/dry vac, look no further than the Vacmaster Professional. This professional-grade vacuum can handle any mess, from dust and debris to liquids and spills. It features a durable 5.5 peak HP motor, a large 12-gallon tank, and a convenient drain port for easy emptying. The Vacmaster Professional also comes with a range of accessories, including a hose, extension wands, crevice tool, floor nozzle, utility nozzle, and cartridge filter. Whether you need to clean your garage, workshop, car, or basement, the Vacmaster Professional is the perfect choice for you.
Features
- Best-in-class suction power and air flow easily tackles tough jobs around the jobsite, shop, or in the Garage (400 air watts, 150 CFM, and 64 in. Water Lift)
- Integrated hose, accessory and power cord organization provide space saving, convenient and hassle-free storage
- Includes 7 ft. X 2-1/2 in. Kink resistant hose, utility nozzle, crevice tool, (2) extension wands, floor nozzle with squeegee & brush, fine dust cartridge filter, foam filter, and air & noise diffuser
- Over 27 ft. Of cleaning reach (7 foot hose and 20 foot power cord) allows you to reach farther without unplugging the unit
- Large 16-Gallon collection tank with extra-large quick empty liquid drain; quickly converts to a blower for jobsite, shop or Garage cleanup
4. Stealth Wet Dry Vacuum, Portable 5 Gallon
- Brand: Stealth
- Manufacturer: Alton Industries
- Color: Silver
- Dimensions: Height: 18.0 Inches Width: 14.0 Inches Length: 14.0 Inches
The Stealth Wet Dry Vacuum is a versatile and powerful cleaning tool for any home or workshop. It can easily handle wet and dry messes, thanks to its 5-gallon tank capacity and 4.0 peak horsepower motor. The vacuum comes with a range of accessories, including a hose, extension wands, floor nozzle, crevice tool, and dust bag. The vacuum also features a convenient handle and casters for easy portability and storage. The Stealth Wet Dry Vacuum can handle it all if you need to clean up spills, dust, debris, or pet hair.
Features
- 【Powerful Suction & High Performance】The Stealth wet dry vacuum cleaner ECV05S1 equipped with 5.5 Peak horsepower pure copper motor, it can provide strong suction and excellent performance when do various of tough cleaning jobs. The capacity of large 5 gallon can satisfy your normal daily cleaning request. In addition, this vacuum cleaner can be widely used in houses, kitchens, garages, basements, construction sites, cars or etc
- 【Wet/ Dry/ Blower 3 In 1 Multifunctional】This vacuum has three different cleaning function, wet cleaning, dry cleaning, blower. It can easily absorb different tapes of rubbish into the container, like dust, pet hair, juice, mike, liquids. Besides, it can be used as a blower to dry wet ground, blow away fallen leaves in yards, gardens, and outdoors
- 【Ultra Large Cleaning Reaches】4.9 feet hose, 19.6 feet power cord and 3 pieces of extension wands increase the working distance of this cleaning machine to over 25 feet, four casters can make it convenient move to multiple locations where you want
- 【Efficient Filtration System & Buoy Technology】The filter system is made of foam filter, cotton filter, ideal for easily filter large particles of dust, avoid dust into the motor, and protect the motor from being damaged.In addition, the filters can be washable, reusable and replaceable
- 【What You Will Get】Stealth 5 gallon Stainless steel wet dry vacuum x1, hose x1, extension wands x3, floor brush x1, foam filter x1, crevice nozzle x1, dust bag x1, cotton filter x1, sofa brush x1, user manual x1, 2 year limited warranty and after-sell service
5. Stealth ECV05P1 Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner | Shop Vacuum with Blower
- Brand: Stealth
- Manufacturer: STEALTH
- Color: Dark Gray
- Dimensions: Height: 18.6 Inches Width: 11.5 Inches Length: 11.5 Inches
- Weight: 12.0 Pounds
The Stealth ECV05P1 Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner is a powerful and versatile cleaning tool that can handle any mess. This vacuum cleaner can do it all if you need to vacuum up dust, dirt, debris, liquids, or pet hair. It has a large 5-gallon tank capacity and a strong 4.0 peak horsepower motor that delivers high performance and durability. The vacuum cleaner also features a HEPA filter that traps 99.97% of dust and allergens, a blower port that converts the vacuum into a blower, and a convenient cord wrap and accessory storage.
The Stealth ECV05P1 Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner comes with a 7-foot hose, two extension wands, a floor nozzle, a crevice tool, a utility nozzle, and a dust brush. It is easy to use and maneuver with its ergonomic handle and four swivel casters. Whether you need to clean your home, garage, workshop, or car, the Stealth ECV05P1 Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner is the perfect choice for you.
Features
- Powerful Suction: 5.5 peak HP provides strong suction for wet/dry cleanup tasks in the workshop, garage, home kitchen, car inside, desktop, easy pick up for floor dust, pets hair, debris, puddle, sawdust
- Proper Capacity & Weight: 5 gallon tank and 12 pounds weight, with 4 removable all round casters, easy to move and provides enough drum capacity for daily uses
- Cleaning Reach: with 19.6ft power cord and 4.9ft hose, and extra extension wands, the maximum cleaning distance could be about 25ft
- Blower Port & Attaches Hook : Rear blowing port on this wet dry vac allows for quick cleaning of leaves/grass clippings in your garage and outdoors. On board hooks allow for easy accessory holdings
- What You Get: Stealth ECV05P1 Wet/Dry Vac x 1, 1-1/4″x 4.9’ flexible hose x 1, floor brush x 1, gulper nozzle x 1, crevice nozzle x 1, foam filter x 1, cotton filter x 1, dust bag x 1, extension wands x 3, Manual x 1, 24-Months Warranty Card x 1, and in time after sale services
6. DEWALT 5 Gallon Stainless Steel Wet/Dry Vac
- Brand: DEWALT
- Manufacturer: Alton Industries
- Color: Silver
- Dimensions: Height: 16.0 Inches Width: 16.0 Inches Length: 20.0 Inches
The DEWALT 5 Gallon Stainless Steel Wet/Dry Vac is a powerful and versatile tool for cleaning up any mess. Whether you need to vacuum dry debris, wet spills, or liquids, this vac can handle it all with its 5.5 peak horsepower motor and durable stainless steel tank. The vac features a built-in drain port for easy emptying of liquids, a hose storage accessory for convenient organization, and a blower port for blowing dust and debris out of hard-to-reach areas. The vac also comes with a variety of attachments, including a crevice tool, a utility nozzle, a car nozzle, and a floor nozzle to suit your cleaning needs. The DEWALT 5 Gallon Stainless Steel Wet/Dry Vac is the perfect solution for any home or workshop.
Features
- The Sturdy Stainless steel 5 gallon container wet/dry Vac is ideal for large cleanups on the jobsite
- Powerful 4.0 peak horsepower motor provides the suction needed for most cleanup jobs
- Built-in blower port powerful enough to blow sawdust and debris from most any workshop. Large built-in tank drain makes it easy to empty liquids
- Extra long, 10 ft. power cord with cord wrap helps you reach the mess. Large on/off switch with water-resistant design.
- Rubberized casters on the front allow smooth swiveling for ease of movement and large rear wheels provide easy maneuverability
- Accessories included: 2-1/2 in. x 7 ft. hose, 2 extension wands, washable & reusable cartridge filter, floor nozzle, utility nozzle, crevice nozzle, disposable filter bag & accessory storage bag
7. Vacmaster VF408 4 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner with 2-Stage Motor
- Brand: Vacmaster
- Manufacturer: Cleva
- Color: Red
- Weight: 20.5 Pounds
If you are looking for a versatile and powerful wet/dry vacuum cleaner, look no further than the Vacmaster VF408. This 4-gallon vacuum cleaner can handle any mess, from dust and dirt to liquids and debris. It features a 5 HP motor that delivers strong suction and a 10-foot cord that gives you plenty of reaches. The Vacmaster VF408 also comes with a range of accessories, including a crevice tool, a floor nozzle, a dust brush, and more. You can easily switch between wet and dry modes with the flip of a switch and store the accessories on board for convenience. The Vacmaster VF408 is the perfect tool for any home or workshop.
Features
- 【4 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum】This shop vacuum is equipped with a 5 peak HP motor and 4-gallon polypropylene tank. Offering the perfect size and power for a variety of tasks in the house. The HEPA material exhaust filter ensures that air filtering back into your home is dust and allergen free.
- 【Powerful Performance】This vacuum has a 2-stage motor which makes cleanup easy and quiet.
- 【User-friendly 】The balanced top handle design, 22-ft cleaning reach, durable casters, and non-marring rear wheels provide stable and safe transportation in and around your home. The automatic cord rewind makes wrapping up the job a breeze.
- 【Accessory storage】 The on-board hose and accessory storage allows you to keep all the attachments organized and on-hand. Accessories include: (1) 1-1/4” x 7’ hose, (3) extension wands, (1) dust brush, (1) 2-in-1 utility nozzle, (1) turbo nozzle, (1) car nozzle, (1) crevice tool, (1) multi-surface floor nozzle, (1) foam wet filter, (1) cartridge filter, (1) HEPA exhaust filter, (1) dust collection bag.
- 【Purchase Guarantee】This item ships from our US warehouse. If you have any questions, please contact our support team and we will respond within 24 hours. Search B08CN56W1J for replacement filters.
8. RIDGID 50318 4500RV ProPack Wet Dry Vac
- Brand: RIDGID
- Manufacturer: Ridgid Tool Company
- Color: Red
- Dimensions: Height: 16.5 Inches Width: 19.0 Inches Length: 15.0 Inches
- Weight: 15.0 Pounds
The RIDGID 50318 4500RV ProPack Wet Dry Vac is a versatile, powerful vacuum cleaner that can handle any mess. Whether you need to clean up wet spills, dust, or debris, this vac covers you. It features a 4.5 peak horsepower motor, a 5-gallon drum capacity, and a patented Qwik Lock filter system that makes filter changes easy and secure. The ProPack design allows you to store the hose and accessories on-board, saving space and improving portability. The vac also comes with a 7-foot tug-a-long hose, a utility nozzle, a car nozzle, a wet nozzle, and a crevice tool. With the RIDGID 50318 4500RV ProPack Wet Dry Vac, you can tackle any cleaning challenge with confidence and convenience.
Features
- The toolbox design makes this portable wet dry vacuum with 5.0 Peak Horsepower motor a powerful and compact solution for professionals and contractors
- The ultra-flexible hose securely locks in place, expands from 2 feet to 7 feet for extended reach, and fits 1-7/8-inch accessories
- The large cushioned handle folds for easy storage and built-in compartments keep the 20-foot power cord and accessories organized and within reach
- A patented Qwik Lock Filter Fastening System allows for hassle-free filter installation, removal for cleaning or replacement without the need for fasteners or tools
- Blower capacity offers versatile performance so you can switch to blowing leaves, dirt and debris from walkways, decks, warehouse floors and job sites
9. Bissell MultiClean Wet/Dry Garage and Auto Vacuum Cleaner
- Brand: Bissell
- Manufacturer: BISSELL
- Color: Red
- Dimensions: Height: 24.5 Inches Width: 16.0 Inches Length: 16.0 Inches
- Weight: 16.1 Pounds
The Bissell MultiClean Wet/Dry Garage and Auto Vacuum Cleaner is a versatile and powerful vacuum cleaner that can handle any mess, wet or dry, in your garage and car. It has a 6-gallon capacity that can accommodate a lot of dirt and liquids. This 12-amp motor delivers excellent suction and blowing performance, a 32-foot hose that can access every part of your vehicle, and a variety of attachments, such as a crevice tool, a dusting brush, a turbo brush, and a blower tool, to help you clean different surfaces and areas.
The Bissell MultiClean Wet/Dry Garage and Auto Vacuum Cleaner can help you save time and energy by easily cleaning up dirt, dust, debris, liquids, and even leaves from your garage and car. It can also protect your garage and car from damage and corrosion caused by dirt and liquids and enhance the appearance and value of your garage and car by keeping them clean and shiny. The Bissell MultiClean Wet/Dry Garage and Auto Vacuum Cleaner is a great investment for anyone who cares about their garage and car.
Features
- Powerful 11 amp motor for excellent wet and dry cleaning
- 6 gallon capacity to get the job done whether big or small
- Includes a blowing function, for clearing dirt and debris from porches, garages and doorways or even to blow up inflatable mattresses and toys with the included tools
- 2 stage filtration designed to help extend the Life of the filter and provide easier cleaning
- Specialized auto tool kit includes crevice tool, precision blowing/suction tool, precision wet suction tool, upholstery brush and detailing/inflatable nozzle tools. Dirt Cup Capacity:23 L
10. Vacmaster VBV1210, 12-Gallon
- Brand: Vacmaster
- Manufacturer: Cleva North America
- Color: Blue
- Dimensions: Height: 24.49 Inches Width: 20.52 Inches Length: 18.44 Inches
- Weight: 24.0 Pounds
The Vacmaster VBV1210 is a versatile and powerful wet/dry shop vacuum that can also convert into a handheld blower with a simple button push. This 12-gallon motor delivers strong suction and airflow for any cleaning task. Whether you need to vacuum carpets, floors, furniture, cars, or workshops or blow away leaves, dirt, or snow from your driveway or yard, the Vacmaster VBV1210 can handle it all. It comes with a 19-foot cleaning reach with a hose and power cord, integrated accessory storage, an extra large drain port, and various attachments for different surfaces and debris. The Vacmaster VBV1210 is your home or shop’s ultimate 2-in-1 cleaning tool.
Features
- Easily Convert from Wet/Dry Vacuum to 210 MPH Handheld Blower
- 19-Foot Cleaning Reach with Hose and Power Cord
- Integrated Accessory Storage
- Extra Large Drain Port. Power Cord Length- 12 feet
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: 7′ x 2-1/2″ Secure Fit Hose, (2) Extension Wands, Utility Nozzle, Crevice Tool, Car Nozzle, Concentrator Nozzle, Blower Adapter, Air/Noise Diffuser, Standard Cartridge Filter and Foam Wet Filter.
Buying Guide for Best Shop Vac
Whether you’re dealing with a messy workshop or a flooded basement or need a powerful vacuum for heavy-duty cleaning, choosing the best shop vac is essential. To help you make an informed decision, here are important points to consider in your buying guide:
- Suction Power:
The suction power of a shop vac determines its ability to handle various debris types and sizes. Look for models with high suction ratings for efficient cleaning.
- Price and Warranty:
Consider your budget and the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period can provide peace of mind and indicate the product’s durability.
- Capacity:
Shop vacs come in various sizes, so choose one with a capacity suitable for your cleaning needs. Smaller models are portable, while larger ones can handle more debris.
- Filter Type:
Check the type of filter used in the shop vac. HEPA filters are great for trapping fine particles, while foam or cloth filters are ideal for wet applications.
- Hose Length and Diameter:
Ensure that the hose is long enough to reach your cleaning area. Consider the diameter as well, as a wider hose can handle larger debris.
- Attachments and Accessories:
Look for shop vacs that come with a variety of attachments like crevice tools, brushes, and extension wands. These accessories enhance versatility.
- Noise Level:
Consider the noise level of the shop vac, especially if you’ll be using it in a residential area. Quieter models are more suitable for indoor use.
- Portability and Maneuverability:
Evaluate the design of the shop vac, including the presence of wheels or handles for easy transport and maneuverability.
- Cord Length:
Make sure the power cord is long enough to reach your desired cleaning area without needing multiple outlets or extension cords.
- Durability and Build Quality:
Examine the construction materials and build Quality to ensure the shop vac can withstand rugged use and potential impacts.
- Brand Reputation:
Research the reputation of the brand and read reviews from other users to gauge the overall Quality and reliability of the product.
- Wet/Dry Capability:
Determine whether the shop vac is designed for wet and dry cleaning. Some models can handle both liquid spills and dry debris.
- Maintenance and Filter Cleaning:
Consider how easy it is to maintain and clean the shop vac’s filters and components to ensure long-term performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is a shop vac?
Ans: A shop vac is a type of vacuum cleaner that can handle both dry and wet messes, such as dust, debris, liquids, and even leaves. Shop vacs are more powerful than regular vacuums and have larger tanks to hold more dirt. Shop vacs are useful for cleaning workshops, garages, basements, cars, and other areas where regular vacuums may not be effective.
Q: How do I choose the best shop vac for my needs?
Ans: There are several factors to consider when choosing a shop vac, such as tank size, motor power, hose length, attachments, portability, noise level, and warranty. Generally, you want a shop vac that has enough capacity and suction to handle the type and amount of mess you need to clean up. You also want a shop vac that is easy to use, move around, and store. Look for a shop vac that comes with different nozzles and accessories to suit different surfaces and tasks.
Q: How do I maintain my shop vac?
Ans: To keep your shop vac in good condition, you should follow these steps:
- Empty the tank after each use or when it is full. Dispose of the contents properly according to local regulations.
- Clean the filter regularly or replace it when it is worn out or damaged. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to remove and clean the filter.
- Wipe down the exterior of the shop vac with a damp cloth to remove any dust or dirt.
- Store the shop vac in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
- Check the hose, cord, plug, and attachments for any signs of wear or damage before each use.
Q: What are some safety tips for using a shop vac?
Ans: To use your shop vac safely, you should follow these tips:
- Read the user manual carefully before operating the shop vac and follow all the warnings and instructions.
- Wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, earplugs, and masks when using the shop vac to avoid exposure to dust or debris.
- Do not use the shop vac near flammable or explosive materials or liquids such as gasoline, paint thinner, or solvent.
- Do not use the shop vac to pick up hot ashes, coals, or other burning materials.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right shop vacuum can be a daunting task. There are so many different types and prices to choose from, and it can be hard to know which one is right for your needs. I have put together this guide to help you find the best shop vacuum for your specific needs. Whether you are looking for something affordable but lightweight or something more high-end and power-hungry, I am confident that this guide will help you find the perfect fit. Thanks for reading.
