Wet/dry vacuums

What's behind our wet/dry vacuum Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 23 models in wet/dry vacuums to see which ones perform best.

We look for:

Overall score
Overall score mainly denotes dry and wet performance.
Weight (lb.)
The weight of the unit, in pounds.
Capacity (claimed/usable, gals.)
Capacity is as claimed by manufacturers, and for usable, as measured by vacuuming water until models shut off automatically, in gallons.
Dry
Dry denotes the amount of airflow maintained after vacs picked up 1,000 grams of dust-simulating wood flour, along with the ability to pick up screws, wood pieces, and other heavier debris.
Wet
Wet reflects how thoroughly it removed a 1-gallon water spill and how long it took.
Emissions
Emissions denotes wood flour released while vacuuming.
Ease of use
Ease of use includes changing the filter and using the hose, wands, nozzles, handles, lid latches, and other features, as well as tip resistance when empty.

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Recommended wet/dry vacuums

Recommended wet/dry vacuums are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices, weigh features, price, and attributes that matter to you.

Recommended wet/dry vacuums

Wet/dry vacuum buying guide

To find the wet/dry vacuum that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value.

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Wet/dry vacuums Ratings

Find out which Wet/dry vacuums scored the best on our tests. Our tests are based not only on government and industry standards but also on standards our specialists think should apply, which re-create the experience you will have with the product.

Latest wet/dry vacuum ratings

Wet/dry vacs are built to handle the toughest household messes. Larger-capacity wet/dry vacuums cleaned best and were best-equipped. If you're looking for information about wet/dry vacuums, Consumer Reports is your best resource. Consumer Reports’ wet/dry vacuum reviews will give you honest buying advice that you can trust. Use our wet/dry vacuum buying guide to discover which features are most important to consider. We also provide unbiased Ratings and wet/dry vacuum reviews to help you choose the best wet/dry vacuum for your needs.

Ratings & recommended wet/dry vacuums

Wet/dry vacuums (23)

Recommended models are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices among models, weigh performance, features, price, and attributes that matter to you, such as color, size, or style.