10 Best Wet Dry Hand Vacuum 2025 in the United States

The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 is a compact and portable wet-dry vacuum well suited for small to medium home cleaning tasks, including cars, garages, and hard floors. It offers strong suction powered by a 2.5 peak horsepower motor and 12.1 amps, which is effective for handling both wet spills and dry debris. Its 2.5-gallon tank is on the smaller side but convenient for quick cleanups without being bulky. Since it plugs in (no battery), you don’t need to worry about runtime limits, but you will need access to a power outlet. Weighing just 6.7 pounds, it’s easy to carry around and use in tight spaces, helped by a 5-foot hose and handy attachments like a crevice tool and utility nozzle that improve maneuverability.

The cloth filter and included filter bag help capture dust and debris, although cloth filters may require occasional cleaning to maintain performance. Noise level at 69 dB is moderate—not too loud but noticeable during use. Bonus features include a blower function for versatility and thoughtful touches like a carry handle and cord wrap for easy storage. This vacuum is ideal if you want a lightweight, easy-to-store machine for general household or vehicle cleaning but might feel limited if you need a larger tank or cordless operation for bigger jobs.

The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 is a heavy-duty wet-dry vacuum designed for large projects and tough clean-ups. Its powerful 6.5 Peak HP motor offers strong suction, making it effective for both wet and dry debris. It features a large 16-gallon tank, which is great for extended use without frequent emptying. However, this also makes the vacuum quite bulky and heavy at 26 pounds, which may not be ideal for users who need a more portable option.

It includes a variety of useful attachments like extension wands, utility nozzles, and a car nozzle, enhancing its versatility for different cleaning tasks. The Dual-Flex technology in the 7-foot hose provides flexibility and prevents kinking, which is a nice ergonomic touch. One significant drawback is that it is not cordless, limiting its mobility and requiring access to power outlets. Additionally, while the noise level of 69 dB is relatively moderate for a vacuum of this power, it might still be disruptive in quieter environments. The built-in blower port is a convenient feature for outdoor cleaning tasks.

The vacuum also supports a range of compatible filters and dust bags, making maintenance straightforward. The three-year limited warranty adds an extra layer of confidence for buyers. This vacuum is best suited for those with heavy-duty cleaning needs in larger spaces or for outdoor projects, but might not be the best choice for those who prioritize portability and quiet operation.

The DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Wet-Dry Vacuum is a versatile tool designed for both wet and dry clean-ups. One of its key strengths is its cordless operation, which offers substantial freedom of movement without being tied to a power outlet. The vacuum utilizes a 20V MAX battery, but note that the battery and charger are sold separately, which could be a disadvantage for some.

With a 2-gallon tank capacity, it is capable of handling moderate clean-up tasks like emptying a toilet or dealing with clogged pipes efficiently. The HEPA-rated filter is a great feature, capturing dust particles as small as 0.3 microns, ensuring a cleaner environment. The filter is washable and reusable, adding to the vacuum's convenience and cost-effectiveness over time.

However, the suction power is specified at 31 CFM, which may not be the strongest compared to other models in the market, limiting its use on more heavy-duty tasks. Weighing 8 pounds, it is reasonably lightweight and features ergonomic designs such as a heavy-duty, crush-resistant hose and onboard storage for hose and accessories, making it easy to carry and transport. The noise level, at 31 dB, is relatively low, ensuring quieter operation. Attachments like the wide nozzle tool and crevice tool enhance its versatility for different cleaning scenarios. Despite these strengths, the need to purchase the battery and charger separately and its moderate suction power might be points to consider before making a purchase. This vacuum is ideal for users who need a portable, easy-to-use device for regular clean-ups, particularly in garages, hard floors, or bare floors.