Contents
The best wet dry vac for pets is the Stanley SL18116P. This powerful vacuum has a 4 horsepower motor and a 6-gallon capacity. It helps with large clean-ups without frequent emptying. The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 is a great value pick, but it only has a 2.5-gallon tank.
Most buyers face a choice between capacity and power. The Stanley offers larger capacity, while the CRAFTSMAN is more portable. The rest of this page will guide you through other excellent options that fit your needs.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Wet Dry Vacs Reviewed in Detail
We reviewed several wet dry vacs to find the best options for pet owners.
1. Best Overall
Stanley – SL18116P Wet/Dry Vacuum, 6 Gallon, 4 Horsepower Black
- ❤【LARGER CAPACITY】Stanley SL18116P Wet / Dry Vacuum has a larger capacity over 22 L, makes small clean-up jobs a breeze for you as you don’t have to empty the bucket frequently any more.Runtime: 300.0 hours
- ❤【VERSATILE & POWERFUL】Thanks to the 4 peak HP motor, this vac offers powerful enough suction needed to almost any cleanup jobs in vehicle, jobsite, workshop, garage, basement, van, house, etc
- ❤【3 in 1 FUNCTION】With this versatile vac you can vacuum both wet liquid spills and dry debris, dust, saw, dirt or blow leaves away(use blower port), just organize the hose and power cord on top handle and side wraps after using, conveniently
- ❤【FARTHER CLEANUP】With over 16 ft of cleaning reach(6 ft hose, 10 ft power cord and 3 pieces of extension wands) it’s easy to do a farther cleanup for you without unplugging the unit, while it has four swivel casters for convenient and easy manoeuvrability
- ❤【WHAT YOU GET】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, 12-Month Warranty
The Stanley SL18116P Wet/Dry Vacuum is designed for tough clean-up jobs, especially in homes with pets. Its 4 horsepower motor provides powerful suction, making it effective for picking up hair and dander. With a 6-gallon capacity, you won’t need to empty it frequently, which is perfect for larger messes. Compared to smaller vacuums, this model can handle more debris and deliver efficient performance.
In terms of competition, the Stanley outshines others like the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250, which has less power and a smaller tank. While the CRAFTSMAN is more portable, it may require more frequent emptying and does not have the same power. The Stanley also comes with an array of accessories, enhancing its versatility, while others might lack enough tools for various tasks.
However, its size may not suit everyone. The Stanley is heavier compared to smaller models, which might make it less convenient for quick clean-ups in tight spaces. For those with significant pet clean-up needs, its performance and capacity balance out this trade-off.
Pros
- 4 peak horsepower motor for powerful suction
- 6-gallon tank reduces the need for frequent emptying
- Comes with versatile accessories for different cleaning tasks
Cons
- Heavier than smaller models, making it less portable
- May be too large for quick clean-ups in tight spaces
Best for: Large clean-ups in homes with pets. Not ideal for: Those needing a lighter, more portable option.
The Stanley SL18116P is a powerful and efficient choice for pet owners.
2. Best for Pets
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 2.5 Gallon 2.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum
- PORTABLE: Lightweight, 2.5-gallon wet dry shop vac offers unparalleled mobility
- IDEAL FOR SMALL MESSES: Perfect for the home, garage, cars, trucks and vans
- EASY TO STORE: Compact size, carry handle and cord wrap feature allow for easy storage
- TWO-IN-ONE CAPABILITY: Shop vacuum can be used as a blower for added versatility
- DESIGNED FOR TIGHT SPACES: 1-1/4 in. shop vacuum accessories allow for maneuverability in tight areas
- ACCESSORIES INCLUDED: 1-1/4 in. x 5 ft. Friction Fit Hose, Crevice Tool, Utility Nozzle, Filter Bag
- COMPATIBLE FILTER: CMXZVBE38737 Genuine CRAFTSMAN Filter Bag
- NOT COMPATIBLE WITH: CMXZVBE38662 Car Cleaning Kit
- VAC WARRANTY: 3 Year Limited Warranty
The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 is a compact wet dry vac designed for smaller messes. Its 2.5-gallon capacity makes it lightweight and easy to carry, perfect for quick clean-ups around the house or even in vehicles. Despite its smaller size, it still offers a respectable 2.5 peak horsepower, providing enough suction for pet hair and other debris.
When compared to larger vacuums, the CRAFTSMAN excels in portability. Unlike the Stanley SL18116P, which is bulkier, this model is easy to transport and store. However, its smaller tank means you will need to empty it more frequently during larger clean-up tasks. This can be a significant trade-off for those with multiple pets.
While the CRAFTSMAN is great for small jobs, it may lack the power needed for larger, heavy-duty clean-ups. If you mainly deal with small messes, this model serves well. For bigger tasks, consider a vacuum with a larger capacity and more power.
Pros
- Lightweight design enhances portability
- 2.5-gallon capacity is good for small messes
- Can be used as a blower for added versatility
Cons
- Smaller tank requires more frequent emptying
- Less powerful than larger models for heavy-duty tasks
Best for: Quick clean-ups and smaller messes. Not ideal for: Users needing to tackle large debris or hair regularly.
The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 is a portable option for easy, smaller clean-ups.
3. Best Splurge
Amazon Basics Wet Dry Shop Vacuum Cleaner, 4 Gallon, 3 HP Stainless Steel, Grey/Black
- POWERFUL CLEANING: This wet and dry vacuum effectively tackles messes, ideal for home, garage, or job site cleaning tasks
- DURABLE DESIGN: Featuring a sturdy stainless steel tank, this wet vacuum cleaner withstands repeated use, maintaining efficiency
- VERSATILE ACCESSORIES: This wet and dry vacuum cleaner includes a reusable cloth filter, foam wet filter, and locking hose, plus multiple nozzles and extension wands for diverse cleaning tasks
- CONVENIENT STORAGE: On-board storage keeps tools and accessories organized and accessible, enabling seamless transitions between modes with this shop vacuum wet and dry
- EASY MOBILITY: Equipped with sturdy wheels and a lightweight frame, this small shop vac moves effortlessly across various surfaces, providing convenience and efficiency where needed
The Amazon Basics Wet Dry Shop Vacuum Cleaner is a solid choice for those looking for reliable cleaning power. With a 3 horsepower motor and a 4-gallon stainless steel tank, it effectively handles both wet and dry messes. The durable design ensures that you can use it for many cleaning tasks around the home or garage without worry.
When compared to competitors, like the CRAFTSMAN and Stanley, the Amazon model strikes a balance between performance and affordability. It has a decent tank size, making it suitable for various messes, while also offering durable construction. Unlike the heavy-duty CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595, this model is more manageable for daily use without feeling overwhelming.
However, it may not have the same suction strength as the top picks. While it performs well for general cleaning, those needing to tackle significant pet hair or larger spills might find it less effective. If you want a vacuum for regular household tasks, this one serves well but may fall short for bigger messes.
Pros
- 3 horsepower motor for decent cleaning power
- 4-gallon stainless steel tank offers durability
- Versatile for various cleaning tasks in different areas
Cons
- Less powerful suction compared to high-end models
- May struggle with larger pet messes or spills
Best for: General home cleaning tasks. Not ideal for: Large clean-ups or heavy pet hair removal.
The Amazon Basics Wet Dry Shop Vacuum is a reliable choice for everyday use.
4. Runner-Up
Armor All® AA155 1.5-Gallon 2 Peak HP Portable Wet/Dry Vacuum, Orange
- COMPACT AND PORTABLE: Equipped with balanced top handle to clean up small messes on the go!
- WALL MOUNTABLE: For convenient storage
- BLOWER CAPABLE: Easily pick up wet and dry messes at 2 peak HP, as well as blow away debris with a quick conversion
- 1.5-GALLON* TANK: The tough polypropylene tank is constructed to last
- INTEGRATED STORAGE: Store attachments on the powerhead for easy access
- 6 ACCESSORIES INCLUDED: Equipped with a 6-ft cord and 4-ft hose, this vacuum is designed to handle various cleaning needs
The Armor All AA155 is a compact and portable wet/dry vacuum designed for quick clean-ups. Its 1.5-gallon tank is perfect for smaller messes, making it easy to transport around your home or car. With a 2 peak horsepower motor, it effectively picks up wet and dry debris, including pet hair, with ease.
In comparison to larger models like the Stanley SL18116P, the Armor All is much more manageable for quick tasks. While it won’t handle large messes as efficiently, its portability and compact size are significant advantages for immediate clean-ups. Other vacuums may require more space, but this one can be stowed easily in tight areas.
However, the small tank size limits its capacity for bigger clean-ups. Users with multiple pets should consider how often they will need to empty it during use. If speed and ease are your priorities, this model is a great fit, but it may not meet all your needs.
Pros
- Compact design is easy to store and transport
- 2 peak horsepower motor for reliable suction
- Can convert to a blower for added versatility
Cons
- 1.5-gallon tank needs frequent emptying
- Not suitable for larger messes or heavy-duty tasks
Best for: Quick clean-ups in tight spaces. Not ideal for: Users with lots of pet hair or larger messes.
The Armor All AA155 is perfect for portable pet clean-ups.
5. Best Design
CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop Vacuum
- 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 shop 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
- COMPATIBLE FILTERS: CMXZVBE38751, CMXZVBE38753, CMXZVBE38754, CMXZVBE38773, CMXZVBE38755, CMXZVBE38776, CMXZVBE38777, CMXZVBE38778, and CMXZVBE38779 Genuine CRAFTSMAN Vac Filters
- COMPATIBLE DUST BAGS: CMXZVBE38749 and CMXZVBE38750 Genuine CRAFTSMAN Dust Bags
- VAC WARRANTY: 3 Year Limited Warranty
The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 is a heavy-duty wet dry shop vacuum. With a powerful 6.5 peak horsepower motor, it handles large messes with ease. The 16-gallon tank is perfect for extensive clean-up jobs, whether in the garage or outside. This vacuum is designed for tough tasks and can tackle leaves and grass clippings as well.
Compared to lighter models, like the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250, this one offers much more power and capacity. While the smaller model is portable, this larger vacuum is more suited for big clean-ups. Its built-in blower port adds extra versatility for outdoor use, making it a great option for yard work.
However, its size can be cumbersome for smaller jobs or indoor use. Users needing a lightweight option may find this vacuum hard to move around. For those with serious cleaning needs, though, the power and capacity of the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 are hard to beat.
Pros
- Heavy-duty 6.5 peak horsepower for large clean-ups
- 16-gallon tank reduces emptying frequency
- Built-in blower port for extra cleaning versatility
Cons
- Cumbersome size makes it hard to transport
- Not ideal for quick clean-ups in tight spaces
Best for: Large projects and outdoor cleaning. Not ideal for: Users needing a lightweight, portable option.
The CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 is built for heavy-duty tasks.
6. Best for Daily Use
Vacmaster VOC508S 1101 5-Gal 4 Peak HP Stainless Steel Wet/Dry Vac Red
- MADE FOR: Everyday wet and dry pick-up
- PREMIUM CONSTRUCTION: Features a stainless steel tank
- POWERFUL SUCTION: 135 air watt motor provides strong suction
- EXTENDED CLEANING REACH: 16-feet of cleaning reach with hose and power cord
- FEATURES: 6 accessories, including a cartridge filter for dry pick-up and a foam wet filter for wet pick-up
The Vacmaster VOC508S is a versatile wet/dry vacuum designed for everyday clean-up tasks. Its 4-gallon stainless steel tank is durable and capable of handling both wet and dry messes. With a 4 peak horsepower motor, it offers strong suction for effective cleaning around your home or garage.
In comparison to other models, like the Armor All AA155, the Vacmaster offers more capacity and power. It can handle larger messes more efficiently than smaller vacuums, but still maintains a manageable size for everyday use. Its extended reach with a 16-foot hose allows for cleaning in hard-to-reach areas.
However, the Vacmaster may not have the same heavy-duty capabilities as larger models like the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595. If you mostly deal with minor daily clean-ups, this vacuum should serve you well, but it may struggle with significant messes requiring a more powerful solution.
Pros
- 4 peak horsepower motor provides strong suction
- 4-gallon stainless steel tank for durability
- Extended cleaning reach with a 16-foot hose
Cons
- Not as powerful as heavy-duty options
- May struggle with very large messes
Best for: Everyday clean-ups around the home. Not ideal for: Large-scale cleaning tasks or heavy debris.
The Vacmaster VOC508S is a reliable choice for daily use.
7. Best Value
Vacmaster VOC812SF 1101 8-Gal 6 Peak HP Stainless Steel Wet/Dry Vac Red
- Premium Stainless Steel 8-Gallon Tank
- High-Performance Motor Delivers 83-Inches of Water Lift for Tough Messes
- 17-foot Cleaning Reach with Hose and Power Cord
- Complete Vac Organization with On-Board Hose, Cord and Accessory Storage
- Easily Converts to Blower
The Vacmaster VOC812SF is a powerful wet dry vacuum designed for serious cleaning tasks. It features an 8-gallon stainless steel tank that can handle substantial messes, making it great for homes with pets. With 6 peak horsepower, it provides strong suction to pick up hair, dander, and other debris effectively.
When compared to lighter models, such as the CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250, the Vacmaster offers more power and capacity. Its 17-foot cleaning reach allows you to clean large areas without moving the unit too often. This vacuum is ideal for users needing a strong solution for both indoor and outdoor clean-ups.
However, its size may make it less suitable for smaller spaces. Users wanting a compact option may find it less portable than smaller models. If you need a powerful vacuum for larger messes, this one offers excellent performance but may lack in portability.
Pros
- 6 peak horsepower motor for heavy-duty cleaning
- 8-gallon tank for larger clean-up tasks
- 17-foot cleaning reach for efficient cleaning
Cons
- Less portable due to its size
- May not fit in tight spaces easily
Best for: Heavy-duty clean-up tasks. Not ideal for: Users needing a lightweight, portable vacuum.
The Vacmaster VOC812SF is built for serious cleaning jobs.
8. Best for Small Spaces
Bissell Crosswave Turbo Vacuum Mop All in One Wet and Dry Vac Combo Hard Floor & Area Rug Cleaner, 3888A
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
- VACUUM AND WASH AT THE SAME TIME. BISSELL CrossWave multi-surface floor cleaner cleans better than a sponge mop and bucket, and in less time.
- MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING. Safe and effective for use on tile, sealed wood floors, laminate, linoleum, rubber floor mats, pressed wood floors, area rugs, and more.
- TWO-TANK TECHNOLOGY. Keep clean water and formula separate from dirt.
- ANTIMICROBIAL TREATED FRESHSTART FILTER. Designed to protect your filter against odors.
The BISSELL Crosswave Turbo Vacuum Mop is a unique option that combines vacuuming and mopping in one. It is designed for hard floors and area rugs, making it effective in homes with pets. This model is versatile and can clean both wet and dry messes simultaneously.
When comparing it to traditional wet dry vacs, the BISSELL offers a two-in-one capability, which can save time and improve cleaning efficiency. However, it is not designed specifically as a heavy-duty vac, unlike other models like the Stanley SL18116P or CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595. Thus, while it’s great for routine cleaning, it may not tackle larger messes as effectively.
Its main limitation is the focus on multi-surface cleaning. It might not handle large amounts of pet hair and debris as well as the more powerful wet dry vacs. If you need an all-in-one solution for regular cleaning, though, the BISSELL is a great choice.
Pros
- Cleans and mops simultaneously for efficiency
- Great for hard floors and area rugs
- Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation, aiding homeless pets
Cons
- Not a heavy-duty vacuum for large messes
- May struggle with excessive pet hair accumulation
Best for: Routine cleaning of hard floors and rugs. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty clean-ups of large debris.
The BISSELL Crosswave Turbo is perfect for integrated floor cleaning.
Wet Dry Vacs Compared Side by Side
The table below shows various wet dry vacs for pets. It lists features, capacity, and suitability for different messes. The best wet dry vac for pets will help you decide which is right for your home.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stanley | Best Overall | Alton Industries | $57.39 | Check |
| 2 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17250 2.5 Gallon 2.5 Peak HP Wet Dry… | Best for Pets | Emerson Tool Company | $49.99 | Check |
| 3 | Amazon Basics Wet Dry Shop Vacuum Cleaner | Best Splurge | Amazon | $62.99 | Check |
| 4 | Armor All® AA155 1.5-Gallon 2 Peak HP Portable Wet/Dry… | Runner-Up | Cleva | $33.9 | Check |
| 5 | CRAFTSMAN CMXEVBE17595 16 Gallon 6.5 Peak HP Wet Dry Shop… | Best Design | Emerson Tool Company | $149.99 | Check |
| 6 | Vacmaster VOC508S 1101 5-Gal 4 Peak HP Stainless Steel… | Best for Daily Use | Cleva | $62.99 | Check |
| 7 | Vacmaster VOC812SF 1101 8-Gal 6 Peak HP Stainless Steel… | Best Value | Cleva | $84.77 | Check |
| 8 | Bissell Crosswave Turbo Vacuum Mop All in One Wet and Dry… | Best for Small Spaces | BISSELL | $129.99 | Check |
| 9 | Armor All AA255W 2.5 Gal 2 Peak HP Wet/Dry Utility Vac… | — | Cleva | $64.32 | Check |
| 10 | Koblenz WD-2L Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner | — | KOBLENZ | $39.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Wet Dry Vacs
Capacity Matters
Look for a vacuum with at least a 4-gallon tank if you have multiple pets. Larger tanks reduce the need for frequent emptying. Smaller tanks, like those under 2.5 gallons, may require more regular attention during big clean-ups.
Suction Power
A vacuum with at least 2 peak horsepower is advisable. Stronger suction helps pick up pet hair and dander effectively. For bigger messes, consider models with 4 peak horsepower or more.
Portability
Choose a lightweight model for easy movement, especially if you plan to clean cars or hard-to-reach places. Look for vacuums under 10 pounds for easy transport, and check for carry handles.
Filter Type
HEPA filters are best for trapping allergens from pets. If you have allergies, look for models with this filter type. Non-HEPA filters may require more cleaning and can let allergens escape.
Accessory Options
Check if the vacuum includes useful attachments. A brush tool can help with pet hair on upholstery. Additional nozzles can tackle various cleaning tasks in different areas of your home.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Our data comes from reliable sources like manufacturer specifications and customer reviews. We looked at over 30 different wet dry vacs available for pets to find the best options.
How we built this shortlist
This shortlist was created by filtering vacuums suitable for homes with pets. We considered suction power, tank capacity, and user feedback. Only vacuums with specific pet-friendly features were included.
What we ruled out and why
We removed vacuums that did not have enough suction power or capacity. Models with poor reviews or lacking essential features also did not make the list. This ensured we offered only reliable options.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand or measured in a lab. We did not assign scores based on personal experience. All data is based on research and user feedback.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated regularly to reflect new products and user reviews. We aim to keep the information current and useful for readers looking for the best wet dry vac for pets.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best wet dry vac for pets?
The best wet dry vac for pets is the Stanley SL18116P. It has a 4 horsepower motor and a 6-gallon tank, making it powerful and efficient for cleaning up pet messes.
Can a wet dry vac clean up pet hair?
Yes, a wet dry vac can effectively clean up pet hair. Look for models with strong suction power to handle hair and dander easily.
How do I maintain a wet dry vac?
To maintain a wet dry vac, regularly clean or replace the filter. Empty the tank after each use and check hoses for blockages to ensure efficient operation.
Are there portable options for wet dry vacs?
Yes, many wet dry vacs are portable. Look for models that are lightweight and have carry handles for easy transport.
Can I use a wet dry vac for liquids?
Absolutely. A wet dry vac is designed to handle both wet and dry messes, making it perfect for cleaning up spills and liquid pet accidents.
What to look for
Suction Power
Suction power is key when choosing a wet dry vac for pets. Aim for at least 2 peak horsepower to effectively tackle pet hair and other debris. Higher suction helps reach deep into carpets and upholstery, removing embedded dirt and allergens.
Tank Capacity
Tank capacity affects how often you need to empty the vacuum. A larger tank, like 6 gallons, is better for bigger messes and frequent cleaning. Smaller tanks may require more frequent emptying, making the process tedious during larger clean-ups.
Portability
Portability is important for users who need to clean multiple areas. A lightweight vacuum with a compact design makes it easy to move around. Features like carry handles and cord wrap help in storage and transport.
Filter Type
Filter type matters for allergy sufferers. HEPA filters trap small pet allergens and are more effective compared to standard filters. Ensure the vacuum you choose has a HEPA filter to improve air quality in your home.
Accessory Options
Having the right accessories can enhance your vacuum’s versatility. Brushes and nozzles designed for pet hair are helpful. Consider models that come with multiple attachments to handle various cleaning tasks efficiently.
Shopping around? We have 13 more wet dry vac guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- EPA indoor air quality U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- EPA mold guidance U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
About the author
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