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Best Wet Dry Vac For Car Detailing (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a reliable tool to help you when working on your car detailing, a wet dry vac might be just what you need. Wet dry vacs are powerful and versatile machines that can quickly clean up spills, debris and dust from your car's interior without leaving any mess behind.

Before buying a wet dry vac, there are a few things you should consider. First of all, you need to decide the suitable size and capacity for your specific needs. If you only need it for light works around the car, a smaller and more portable model might be enough. But for more heavy-duty jobs, larger models with greater suction power and longer hoses will be required.

Another factor you need to consider is the type of attachments that come with the wet dry vac. The accessories available will vary depending on the model, but you want to make sure that it includes nozzles, crevice tools and a dusting brush at a minimum. Pay attention to the quality of the hose and power cord, too. A longer and more durable hose and more robust wiring can make the difference when in use.

If you’re still not sure whether a wet dry vac is right for your needs, ask yourself these questions. Do you want a machine that is powerful and efficient? Do you need a tool that can be used quickly and easily for your cars? Having answers to these questions can guide you in making an informed buying decision that you won't regret.

10 Best Wet Dry Vac For Car Detailing

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for cleaning cars with wet and dry messes, comes with accessories to effectively clean every nook and cranny.
2
This accessory kit is ideal for car detailing with a wet/dry shop vacuum.
3
Ideal for cleaning wet and dry messes in a shop or garage with its 2.5 gallon capacity and 2 peak horsepower.
4
The product is ideal for cleaning cars and other vehicles using a wet/dry shop vacuum with a 1-1/4-inch hose.
5
This car cleaning kit is ideal for detailing and cleaning automotive interiors with a wet/dry vacuum.
6
The product is ideal for cleaning car interiors with wet or dry capabilities and has a powerful 150W/7500Pa suction capacity.
7
This product is ideal for quick and convenient wet/dry cleaning in homes, cars, RVs, and trucks.
8
A wet/dry vacuum that is ideal for cleaning up both liquid and solid debris.
9
This product is ideal for cleaning wet and dry debris inside cars.
10
Ideal for cleaning cars and garages efficiently using a wall-mounted wet/dry vacuum/blower with auto tool kit.
Ideal for cleaning cars with wet and dry messes, comes with accessories to effectively clean every nook and cranny.
This accessory kit is ideal for car detailing with a wet/dry shop vacuum.
Ideal for cleaning wet and dry messes in a shop or garage with its 2.5 gallon capacity and 2 peak horsepower.
The product is ideal for cleaning cars and other vehicles using a wet/dry shop vacuum with a 1-1/4-inch hose.
This car cleaning kit is ideal for detailing and cleaning automotive interiors with a wet/dry vacuum.
The product is ideal for cleaning car interiors with wet or dry capabilities and has a powerful 150W/7500Pa suction capacity.
This product is ideal for quick and convenient wet/dry cleaning in homes, cars, RVs, and trucks.
A wet/dry vacuum that is ideal for cleaning up both liquid and solid debris.
This product is ideal for cleaning wet and dry debris inside cars.
Ideal for cleaning cars and garages efficiently using a wall-mounted wet/dry vacuum/blower with auto tool kit.

1. Autoclean Pro Vacuum: Portable 3g Wet/dry

The portable wet dry vacuum cleaner for cars with auto vacuum accessories is an excellent investment for those who are looking for a reliable and efficient cleaning tool. Backed by a 5-Year Limited Warranty, this vacuum cleaner is designed specifically for automotive cleaning challenges. The 1-7/8-inch Expandable Locking Hose stretches from 2' to 7' for extended reach and conveniently stores on the small shop vacuum. With a built-in suction powered Dust Pan, clean up is quick and easy. The bleeder valve on the hose allows suction control, so you can easily control the amount of suction necessary for the job. The tough copolymer drum resists dents and cracks, ensuring that this vacuum cleaner is durable and long-lasting.

This vacuum cleaner is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry to the car with its large carry handle. Its compact design allows for convenient storage in most cabinets when not in use. The package includes accessories like the 2-ft. to 7-ft. Expandable Locking Hose, Soft Triangular Dusting Brush, Claw Nozzle, Flexible Crevice Tool, Car Nozzle, Standard Filter, and Dust Collection Bag. The gallons indicated reflect drum volume, not necessarily collection capacity, as it is dependent on the type of debris collected, condition of filter, and other factors. Peak horsepower represents a level at or below the maximum horsepower output of an electric motor tested in a laboratory using a dynamometer.

Pros

  • Comes with auto vacuum accessories specifically designed for automotive cleaning challenges
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Built-in suction powered Dust Pan makes clean up quick and easy
  • The Expandable Locking Hose stretches from 2' to 7' for extended reach
  • Conveniently stores in most cabinets when done
  • The copolymer drum resists dents and cracks, ensuring that this vacuum cleaner is durable and long-lasting

Cons

  • – The actual capacity of debris collected is dependent on various factors

2. Wet/dry Vac Car Detailing Kit

The 3-Piece shop vacuum car detailing kit is a must-have for anyone looking to keep their auto, truck or van clean. The kit contains 2-1/2-inch wet dry vac accessories that are specifically designed to use with a shop vacuum. These accessories can fit most shop vacuum hoses or wands with a 2-1/2-inch diameter, making them easy to use.

The kit includes a Flexible Crevice Tool that is a shop vacuum attachment. This attachment provides side-to-side agility in tight areas that most rigid wet dry vacuum accessories cannot reach. With this tool, you can easily clean the nooks and crannies of your vehicle without any hassle.

The Triangle Soft Bristle Brush is another attachment included in the kit. This attachment allows the user to get into corners and is ideal for softer materials, dusting crevices or cleaning vents. The brush is gentle on surfaces, making it perfect for cleaning delicate areas of your vehicle.

Lastly, the Claw Nozzle vac attachment is perfect for deep cleaning. It penetrates carpet and upholstery, removing dirt and debris easily. This attachment is perfect for those tough-to-clean areas of your vehicle.

Overall, the 3-Piece shop vacuum car detailing kit is an excellent investment for anyone looking to keep their vehicle clean. The kit is easy to use and includes attachments that can reach even the tightest spaces. With this kit, you can keep your vehicle looking like new.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Fits most shop vacuum hoses or wands with a 2-1/2-inch diameter
  • Includes attachments that can reach tight spaces
  • Perfect for deep cleaning
  • Gentle on surfaces

3. Armor All, Aa255 , 2.5 Gallon 2 Peak Hp Wet/dry Utility Shop Vacuum , Orange

The 2.5-gallon polypropylene tank and 2 peak HP motor make this vacuum an ideal choice for cleaning up small to medium-sized messes. With a 10 ft. cord and cord wrap, it has a convenient and manageable length for easy maneuvering around the house. Its blower function can be easily converted for added versatility, making it perfect for cleaning out hard-to-reach areas. Additionally, it features on-board accessory and hose storage for hassle-free storage and easy accessibility. However, it is important to note that its 1-1/4” diameter hose may make it challenging to pick up larger debris, such as leaves.

The compact size of this vacuum allows for easy storage in smaller spaces, while still providing ample power for efficient cleaning. Its blower function is a great bonus feature, allowing for extra cleaning power in tight spaces. The on-board accessory and hose storage make it easy to keep all the necessary tools close at hand, while the cord wrap keeps the cord tidy and out of the way during storage. Overall, this vacuum is a great choice for anyone looking for a compact, yet powerful, cleaning solution.

This vacuum is a great choice for those who need a smaller, more compact option for their cleaning needs. Its 2 peak HP motor provides ample power for most cleaning tasks, and its blower function adds extra versatility to its already impressive feature set. The on-board accessory and hose storage make it easy to keep all the necessary tools close at hand, while the cord wrap keeps the cord tidy and out of the way during storage. However, its 1-1/4” diameter hose may make it difficult to pick up larger debris, such as leaves.

Pros

  • 2.5-gallon polypropylene tank for convenient and easy cleaning.
  • 2 peak HP motor for powerful suction.
  • 10 ft. cord with cord wrap for easy maneuvering and storage.
  • Blower function for added versatility.
  • On-board accessory and hose storage for hassle-free storage and easy accessibility.

Cons

  • – 1-1/4” diameter hose may make it challenging to pick up larger debris, such as leaves.

4. Premium Auto Cleaning Kit For Wet/dry Vacuums.

The Shop Vacuum Car Detailing Kit is the perfect solution for keeping your car clean and tidy. This kit comes with a premium grade hose that is more durable and flexible, making it easier to reach tight areas for auto detailing. It also includes a Flexible Crevice Tool that provides side-to-side agility in tight, narrow spaces. This is a great alternative to most rigid wet dry vacuum accessories. The kit also comes with a stiff bristle brush that can lift debris from carpets, utility spaces, trunks, and floor mats. In addition, it has a soft bristle brush that can remove dust from dashes, vents, and consoles. The claw nozzle with adapter is also included in the kit. It is similar to those used in car washes and is designed to penetrate carpets and upholstery.

This shop vacuum car detailing kit is compatible with most shop vacuums that have a standard 2-1/2-inch inlet opening or hose. The 1-1/4-inch diameter accessories are designed for maneuverability in tight spaces. With this kit, you can easily keep your car looking clean and new.

Pros

  • The premium grade hose is more durable and flexible, making it easier to reach tight areas for auto detailing
  • The Flexible Crevice Tool provides side-to-side agility in tight, narrow spaces
  • The kit includes a stiff bristle brush for lifting debris from carpets, utility spaces, trunks, and floor mats
  • The soft bristle brush can remove dust from dashes, vents, and consoles
  • The claw nozzle with adapter is similar to those used in car washes and is designed to penetrate carpets and upholstery
  • The 1-1/4-inch diameter accessories are designed for maneuverability in tight spaces

5. Craftsman Automotive Detailing Kit – 5-Piece Accessory Set

The Craftsman Accessory Kit includes a variety of tools to tackle every cleaning task. With the Crevice Tool, you can reach slim and narrow areas that your vacuum hose can't reach, making it perfect for cleaning under the seats, around the dashboard, and other small areas. The Dusting Brush is designed to clean intricate surfaces both indoors and outdoors, including inside cars. The Car Nozzle has a unique shape that makes it easy to sweep across carpets and upholstery. The kit also includes an extra-long 1-1/4 in. x 11 ft. Hose for extended reach, and a 2-1/2 in. Hose Connector for easy attachment. The Friction Fit Hose uses friction to attach the 1-1/4 in. hose to your 2-1/2 in. vacuum drum inlet. This accessory kit is compatible with Craftsman and most other wet/dry vacs with a 2-1/2 in. drum inlet, but will not fit vacuums with a 1-1/4 in. drum inlet.

Pros

  • Includes a variety of tools to tackle every cleaning task
  • Crevice Tool reaches slim and narrow areas where your hose can't reach
  • Dusting Brush cleans intricate surfaces both indoors and outdoors
  • Car Nozzle has a unique shape that makes it easy to sweep across carpets and upholstery
  • Extra-long 1-1/4 in. x 11 ft. Hose for extended reach
  • Friction Fit Hose makes attachment easy

Cons

  • – Not compatible with vacuums that have a 1-1/4 in. drum inlet

6. Powerful Handheld Car Vacuum – Kowasis

The Professional Deep Cleaning Vehicle Tool is a must-have for car owners who want to achieve professional cleaning results every time. This mini vacuum for cars and trucks is compact, lightweight, and easy to use, making it the perfect interior car detailing kit housed in an ergonomic design.

With its 7500Pa high power suction, this car vacuum cleaner supports both wet and dry use. It is equipped with a 150W powerful motor that can reach up to 32000 rounds per minute, making it easy to clear your car of dust, hair, and other debris.

The car vacuum cleaner also features a HEPA filtration system that adopts a double filtration system. The cyclone cone separates larger trash to prevent filter clogging, and its compact structure and good sealing prevent inhalation of dust and other garbage from leaking out to cause secondary cleaning.

Using this car cleaning kit is easy. Simply insert the cigarette lighter plug into the DC 12V cigarette lighter located in the car, and you're good to go. The car vacuum cleaner comes with 16.4 feet of cord, enough to easily reach the trunk of even a bigger size car and aid with maneuvering. This car cleaning kit can help you clean any hard-to-reach area inside your car.

In addition to the car vacuum cleaner, you'll also get four attachments (long tube, slot pipette, extended hose, brush nozzle) for detailing, a carry bag, filter brush, and spare HEPA filter. With all these tools, you'll be able to achieve a thorough cleaning of your car's interior.

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight design for portability and easy storage
  • High power suction for efficient cleaning of dust, hair, and debris
  • HEPA filtration system for preventing inhalation of dust and other garbage
  • Easy to use with a long cord for reaching hard-to-reach areas
  • Comes with four attachments, carry bag, filter brush, and spare HEPA filter for thorough cleaning

Cons

  • – Requires a DC 12V cigarette lighter to operate
  • – May not be as powerful as a full-sized vacuum cleaner
  • – May not be suitable for heavy-duty cleaning tasks

7. Ion+ Cordless Handheld Vacuum Kit

The Ion+ 24V Rechargeable Battery System Portable Vacuum Cleaner is perfect for quick clean-ups around the home, office, auto, garage, workshop, boat, and RV. Its cordless convenience makes it easy to use without any hassle. The vacuum cleaner has an advanced HEPA filtration system that effectively traps pollen, dirt, sand, hair, dust, and debris, making it ideal for people with allergies. The washable, reusable HEPA filter saves money on replacements and ensures long-lasting suction power. With the 6-piece accessory kit, you can easily clean hard-to-reach areas and surfaces with an extension tube, crevice nozzle, water nozzle, wet and dry utility nozzle, dust brush nozzle, and carrying bag. The vacuum cleaner has a net weight of 3.5 lbs and a gross weight of 4.4 lbs, making it lightweight and easy to maneuver. It comes with a 2-year warranty, ensuring its quality and durability. The noise level of the vacuum cleaner is 70.0 decibels, which is relatively quiet for a vacuum cleaner. It has a wattage of 120.0 watts, providing powerful suction to clean any surface.

Pros

  • Cordless convenience for easy use
  • Advanced HEPA filtration system for people with allergies
  • Washable, reusable HEPA filter saves money on replacements
  • 6-piece accessory kit for easy cleaning of hard-to-reach areas
  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver
  • Comes with a 2-year warranty
  • Relatively quiet for a vacuum cleaner
  • Powerful suction to clean any surface

8. Stanley – Sl18116p Wet/dry Vacuum, 6 Gallon, 4 Horsepower Black

The Stanley SL18116P Wet / Dry Vacuum is a highly versatile and powerful tool that helps you tackle almost any cleanup job with ease. With a larger capacity of over 22 L, you don't have to empty the bucket frequently anymore, making small clean-up jobs a breeze for you.

Powered by a 4 peak HP motor, this vacuum offers powerful suction needed to clean up both wet liquid spills and dry debris, dust, sawdust, dirt, or even blow leaves away (using the blower port). The vacuum comes with a 6 ft hose, a 10 ft power cord, and 3 pieces of extension wands, providing you with over 16 ft of cleaning reach, making it easy to do a farther cleanup without unplugging the unit.

This versatile vacuum is perfect for use in vehicles, job sites, workshops, garages, basements, vans, houses, and more. Once you're done cleaning up, you can conveniently organize the hose and power cord on the top handle and side wraps. The vacuum also features four swivel casters that allow for convenient and easy maneuverability.

In the package, you'll get the Stanley SL18116P Wet / Dry Vac x 1, 1-1/4"x6' super flexible hose x 1, extension wands x 3, gulper nozzle, floor nozzle x 1, crevice nozzle x 1, foam filter x 1, dust bag x 1, reusable dry filter x 1, and a 12-Month Warranty.

Pros

  • Larger capacity makes small clean-up jobs a breeze
  • Powerful 4 peak HP motor offers strong suction power
  • 3 in 1 function allows you to vacuum both wet liquid spills and dry debris
  • Over 16 ft of cleaning reach allows for farther cleanups without unplugging the unit
  • Four swivel casters provide convenient and easy maneuverability

9. Armorall Armor All-12v Wet/dry Car Vac (Aa12v10901), Orange

The 12V Auto AC Plug is a powerful and convenient vacuum cleaner designed for both wet and dry cleaning applications. With a 15 ft. power cord, this vacuum cleaner can easily reach all areas of your car, truck or SUV. It is extremely versatile and comes equipped with a built-in LED light that illuminates dark areas and a retractable crevice tool that allows you to clean hard-to-reach places with ease. This vacuum cleaner is perfect for cleaning up spills, dirt, and debris in your vehicle.

One of the best features of the 12V Auto AC Plug is its ability to clean up both wet and dry messes. This makes it perfect for use in all types of weather conditions. The built-in LED light is also a great feature that makes it easy to see where you are cleaning, even in low light conditions. The 15 ft. power cord is long enough to reach all areas of your car without having to unplug and replug the vacuum cleaner.

The 12V Auto AC Plug is also very easy to use. Simply plug it into your car's 12V power outlet and you're ready to go. The built-in retractable crevice tool is also a great addition that makes it easy to clean tight spaces and hard-to-reach areas. This vacuum cleaner is also very lightweight and compact, making it easy to store in your car's trunk or glove compartment.

Overall, the 12V Auto AC Plug is a great investment for anyone who wants a powerful and versatile vacuum cleaner for their car. It is easy to use, lightweight and compact, and comes equipped with a range of features that make cleaning your car a breeze.

Pros

  • Powerful and versatile vacuum cleaner for both wet and dry cleaning applications
  • Built-in LED light for easy cleaning in low light conditions
  • 15 ft. power cord that can easily reach all areas of your car
  • Built-in retractable crevice tool for cleaning hard-to-reach areas
  • Lightweight and compact design for easy storage in your car

Cons

  • – Requires a 12V power outlet in your car
  • – May not be as powerful as some larger vacuum cleaners

10. Bissell Garage Pro Wall-Mounted Wet Dry Car Vacuum/blower With Auto Tool Kit, 18p03

The Bissell 12 Amp Wet/Dry Vacuum is a versatile cleaning system that can efficiently pick up both wet and dry messes in the garage, car, workshop, and other areas. It is equipped with the Helix System that suctions up wet and dry debris effectively. The vacuum comes with seven versatile attachments and an accessory bag that can be used for cleaning on bare floors, carpeting, upholstery, and other surfaces.

The vacuum has a 4-gallon semi-translucent dirt tank and a two-stage filtration system. It includes a wall mounting kit and an extra-long hose that stretches up to 32 feet. The extension wand and reach extension tools contribute to the vacuum's versatility, making it easy to reach tight spaces and hard-to-reach areas. The vacuum's power cord is 5 feet long, providing ample reach for cleaning in larger areas.

Apart from being a versatile cleaning system, Bissell is also proud to support the Bissell Pet Foundation. Every Bissell purchase helps save homeless pets, which is a noble cause that many pet lovers would appreciate.

Pros

  • Can pick up both wet and dry messes
  • Equipped with the Helix System that effectively suctions up debris
  • Comes with seven versatile attachments and an accessory bag
  • Has a 4-gallon semi-translucent dirt tank and a two-stage filtration system
  • Includes a wall mounting kit and an extra-long hose that stretches up to 32 feet
  • Has an extension wand and reach extension tools for cleaning tight spaces
  • Bissell supports the Bissell Pet Foundation with every purchase

Cons

  • – The power cord is only 5 feet long

Best Wet Dry Vac For Car Detailing FAQs

Are there any specific attachments or accessories that are essential for car detailing with a wet dry vac?

Yes, there are several attachments and accessories that are essential for car detailing with a wet dry vac. One of the most important attachments is the crevice tool, which is ideal for reaching tight spaces and corners in the car interior, such as between the seats and under the dashboard.

Another essential accessory is the upholstery tool, which is designed to clean the seats, carpets, and other soft surfaces in the car. This tool typically has a brush or bristles that agitate the surface to loosen dirt and debris, while the suction from the wet dry vac removes it.

A dusting brush is also useful for cleaning the dashboard, console, and other hard surfaces in the car. This attachment typically has soft bristles that gently sweep away dust and dirt without scratching the surface.

Finally, a flexible hose extension can be helpful for reaching difficult areas in the car, such as the trunk or under the seats. This accessory allows you to extend the reach of your wet dry vac so that you can clean every nook and cranny of your vehicle.

Overall, investing in these essential attachments and accessories for your wet dry vac can greatly improve your car detailing results and make the process much easier and more efficient.

Can a wet dry vac be used to clean both the exterior and interior of a car?

Yes, a wet dry vac can be used to clean both the exterior and interior of a car. In fact, it is an excellent tool for thorough cleaning. When it comes to the exterior, the wet dry vac can help remove dirt, debris, and other contaminants from the car's surface. It can also be used to clean the wheels, tires, and other hard-to-reach areas.

On the interior, a wet dry vac can be used to clean the carpets, upholstery, and seats. It can also help remove crumbs, dust, and other debris from the dashboard and other surfaces. Additionally, the wet dry vac can be used to clean out the air vents, which can help improve air quality inside the car.

However, it is important to use the right attachments and settings when using a wet dry vac on a car. Using too much suction or the wrong tool can damage delicate surfaces or cause scratches. It is also important to make sure the vac is clean and free of debris before using it on the car. With proper use, a wet dry vac can be a powerful tool for keeping your car clean and looking great.

How does the suction power of a wet dry vac impact its effectiveness for car detailing tasks?

The suction power of a wet dry vac is a crucial factor that determines its effectiveness for car detailing tasks. A higher suction power will enable the vacuum to pick up dirt and debris more effectively, making it easier to clean the interior of a car. A wet dry vac with low suction power may struggle to remove stubborn dirt and debris, which can leave the car's interior looking dirty and unclean.

Additionally, the suction power of a wet dry vac will also impact its ability to remove water and other liquids from the car's interior. If the suction power is too low, it may leave behind water and moisture, which can lead to mold and mildew growth.

Therefore, when choosing a wet dry vac for car detailing tasks, it is important to consider the suction power. Look for a model with a high suction power that can effectively clean dirt, debris, and liquids from the car's interior, leaving it looking clean and fresh.

What are the key features to look for when selecting a wet dry vac for car detailing?

When selecting a wet dry vac for car detailing, there are several key features to consider. Firstly, the size of the vacuum is important, as it should be compact enough to maneuver around a car's interior but also have a tank capacity that is sufficient to handle the job. Additionally, the suction power of the vacuum is crucial, as it needs to be strong enough to remove dirt, debris, and liquids from all surfaces of the car. A vacuum with a range of attachments, such as crevice tools and upholstery brushes, can help ensure that every nook and cranny of the car is thoroughly cleaned. The filtration system is also important, as it should be capable of capturing even the smallest particles to prevent them from being recirculated into the air. Finally, a wet dry vac with a long cord and hose provides greater flexibility in terms of where it can be positioned and where it can reach, making it easier to clean the entire car.

What is the ideal size and capacity of a wet dry vac for car detailing purposes?

When it comes to wet dry vacuums for car detailing purposes, there are a few things to consider before making a purchase. The ideal size and capacity of a wet dry vac will depend on the size of your car and the type of cleaning you plan on doing.

For smaller cars, a compact wet dry vac with a capacity of around 2-3 gallons should suffice. However, for larger vehicles such as trucks and SUVs, a wet dry vac with a larger capacity of around 5-6 gallons would be more appropriate.

In addition to capacity, it's important to consider the power and accessories that come with the wet dry vac. Look for a model with a powerful motor and a hose length that can reach all areas of your vehicle. Accessories such as crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and extension wands are also important for thorough cleaning.

Ultimately, the ideal size and capacity of a wet dry vac for car detailing will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the size of your vehicle and the type of cleaning you plan on doing, and choose a model that meets these requirements.

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