Best Wet Dry Vacuums

Large, messy jobs in garages, workshops, or basements can quickly fill up a standard vacuum, making frequent emptying a hassle. A high-capacity wet dry vacuum is essential for those who need to tackle bigger clean-ups without constant interruptions.

The Stanley 6-Gallon Wet Dry Shop Vac stands out for its generous tank size and versatile 3-in-1 functionality. It's a strong choice for homeowners or DIYers who need to manage both wet spills and dry debris efficiently across larger areas.

• 6-gallon tank capacity means fewer stops to empty, ideal for extended cleaning sessions
• 4 peak HP motor delivers strong suction for both wet and dry messes
• 16 ft total reach with hose, cord, and extension wands covers more ground without unplugging

Compared to compact models, the Stanley prioritizes capacity and reach, making it well-suited for bigger jobs. The tradeoff is a larger footprint, which may be less convenient for small storage spaces.

Small messes in cars, workshops, or around the house need a vacuum that's easy to carry and store, without sacrificing versatility. A compact wet dry vacuum is perfect for quick clean-ups and tight spaces.

The Armor All 2.5-Gallon Wet Dry Utility Vac is designed for portability and everyday convenience. Its lightweight build and integrated storage make it a practical choice for car owners, apartment dwellers, or anyone needing a grab-and-go solution.

• 2.5-gallon polypropylene tank offers a balance of capacity and compactness
• Integrated accessory storage keeps all tools organized and within reach
• Converts to blower for added versatility in garages or outdoor areas

Compared to larger models, this Armor All vac prioritizes portability and ease of use. The main tradeoff is a smaller tank, which may require more frequent emptying during bigger jobs.

Busy homes with kids or pets often face a mix of sticky spills and everyday dirt, making traditional vacuums or mops inefficient. A vacuum that can handle both wet and dry messes in one pass saves time and effort.

The Shark HydroVac MessMaster Wet Dry Vacuum offers 3-in-1 cleaning—vacuuming, mopping, and self-cleaning—making it ideal for families who want a streak-free finish on hard floors and rugs. Its cordless design adds flexibility for whole-home cleaning.

• 3-in-1 vacuum, mop, and self-clean tackles multiple mess types in one go
• Continuous self-cleaning brushroll helps prevent dirt redeposit and odors
• Cordless operation with LED display provides easy maneuverability and real-time status

Unlike basic shop vacs, the Shark HydroVac focuses on convenience and multi-surface cleaning. The tradeoff is a higher price and a design best suited for floors rather than heavy-duty debris.

Keeping floors spotless can be tedious, especially when switching between vacuuming and mopping. A vacuum-mop combo with self-cleaning features streamlines the process and keeps maintenance minimal.

The Ultenic Cordless Wet Dry Vacuum Mop Combo is a smart pick for busy households seeking convenience. Its self-cleaning system, lightweight build, and smart mess detection make it especially appealing for families with kids or pets.

• One-button self-cleaning keeps rollers and tubes fresh without manual effort
• Smart mess detection optimizes suction for both wet and dry spills
• Dual tank design separates clean and dirty water for hygienic cleaning

Compared to traditional vacuums, the Ultenic prioritizes ease of use and maintenance. The main tradeoff is the need to use compatible cleaning solutions and regular upkeep to prevent clogs.

Cleaning cars, trucks, or small spaces requires a vacuum that's easy to maneuver and store. Large shop vacs can be cumbersome, making a compact, portable option more practical for vehicle interiors and tight corners.

The CRAFTSMAN 2.5-Gallon Portable Wet Dry Vac is tailored for mobility and quick access. Its compact size and included accessories make it a go-to for automotive cleaning and small messes around the house or garage.

• Lightweight, portable design allows for easy transport and storage
• 1-1/4 inch accessories improve maneuverability in tight areas
• Two-in-one vacuum and blower adds versatility for various tasks

Compared to larger units, this CRAFTSMAN model excels in portability but sacrifices tank size, making it less suitable for extended or heavy-duty cleaning.

Corners and baseboards often collect stubborn dirt and debris that standard vacuums miss. For homes with hard floors, a vacuum that excels at edge cleaning ensures a more thorough result.

The Tineco iFLOOR 5 Breeze Cordless Wet Dry Vacuum is designed for precise cleaning along edges and in narrow spaces. Its hands-free self-cleaning and enlarged water tanks make it a solid choice for maintaining hard floors with minimal hassle.

• Enhanced edge cleaning reaches corners and baseboards as narrow as 0.20 inches
• Dual tank system keeps clean and dirty water separate for better results
• Hands-free self-cleaning maintains roller freshness and hygiene

Compared to all-purpose vacuums, the Tineco focuses on targeted cleaning and easy maintenance. The main tradeoff is that it's optimized for hard floors rather than carpets or heavy debris.