Best Wet/Dry Vacuums with HEPA Filtration

TL;DR: The Milwaukee 0880‑20 Red delivers 45 CFM of suction, a 2‑gallon tank and up to 30 minutes of cordless runtime, making it a solid mid‑range wet/dry vac for job‑site clean‑up.

What really sets this unit apart is its 45 CFM maximum airflow paired with an 18 V M18 battery platform, giving you strong suction without a cord. The 2‑gallon tank holds enough liquid for most automotive or workshop spills, and the built‑in blower port lets you switch to a drying function in seconds. Runtime tops out at about 30 minutes on a standard M18 pack, which most users find sufficient for short‑to‑medium tasks.

Compared with the other ten contenders, the Milwaukee sits in the middle of the weight range – it’s heavier than the 4.5‑lb DeWalt 20V MAX and the 7.22‑lb Craftsman V20, but lighter than the 18.92‑lb Kenmore KW3050 and the 20.5‑lb Vacmaster. Its 6‑foot hose outstretches DeWalt’s 2.5‑foot line and Craftsman’s 2377 mm hose, while matching the Bosch 5.25‑foot length. Airflow-wise, the 45 CFM sits above Craftsman’s 35 CFM but below Kenmore’s and Vacmaster’s 65 CFM, giving it a balanced performance profile for most wet/dry jobs.

Reviewers consistently praise the cordless freedom and the washable HEPA filter that keeps dust and allergens contained. Professional voices note the “long continuous run time combined with high air power” and the “toolbox‑style transport” as big wins for trade pros. The most common complaints revolve around the 2‑gallon capacity, which some users say fills quickly during larger clean‑ups, and the runtime that drops once the battery drains, especially if you’re using the blower function.

Additional technical touches include on‑board storage that tucks the 6‑foot hose, crevice tool and utility nozzle inside the vacuum’s body, and a 5‑year warranty that backs the motor and battery compatibility. You can wash and reuse the HEPA filter, reducing ongoing costs and keeping the unit more hygienic for indoor use.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option

Avoid if: You need advanced features or professional‑grade performance

TL;DR: The Milwaukee 0970‑20 M18 FUEL PACKOUT wet/dry vacuum packs a brushless 18 V motor, 50‑53 CFM airflow and a washable HEPA filter into a 13.1‑lb, 6‑ft‑hose unit for premium cordless cleanup.

This vacuum’s standout spec is its 50‑53 CFM airflow, driven by a brushless POWERSTATE™ motor that professional reviewers say delivers up to 70 % more suction than comparable 18 V cordless vacuums. The unit also offers a water lift of 119,380 mm, indicating strong suction for both wet and dry debris. At 13.1 lb, the machine balances power with portability, while the 6‑ft hose and 1.25‑in diameter give you reach without sacrificing suction.

At $192.96 it sits in the premium tier of the eleven‑model roundup, making it pricier than many of the sub‑11‑lb competitors such as the Bissell Crosswave and Makita XCV11Z, which are lighter and often positioned as mid‑range options. Its 87 dB(A) sound power level is louder than the ≤80 dB threshold of the quietest models, but users still note it feels quieter than typical job‑site vacuums. The inclusion of OneKey compatibility, REDLINK PLUS intelligence and PACKOUT integration also sets it apart from the more basic units.

Consumer sentiment highlights the vacuum’s 50‑53 CFM airflow and low‑noise feel, especially when paired with Milwaukee’s modular storage system. Reviewers appreciate the washable certified HEPA filter (49‑90‑1900) that meets OSHA silica‑dust standards, a rare feature in cordless vacuums. However, users frequently mention that the tank fills quickly on larger jobs and that the battery runtime feels short, requiring periodic recharges during extended tasks.

Best for: Contractors, electricians, and DIYers already invested in the Milwaukee M18 ecosystem who need high suction and HEPA filtration in a cordless package.

Avoid if: You need a large‑capacity tank, prolonged run time without recharging, or a budget‑friendly model for occasional light cleaning.

TL;DR: The DeWalt 20V MAX cordless wet/dry vacuum packs a 0.5‑gallon tank, 99.97% HEPA filtration and a 2.5‑ft hose into a 4.5‑lb, battery‑ready package perfect for quick, portable clean‑ups.

What really sets this model apart is its cordless operation powered by a DEWALT 20V MAX battery pack and a compact 0.5‑gallon tank. At just 4.5 lb, it’s the lightest option in the roundup, making it easy to carry up ladders or around a job site. The built‑in Gore HEPA filter captures 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns, and the dual cleanup modes let you switch between wet and dry pickup without swapping tools.

When you line it up against the other ten contenders, the DeWalt is markedly lighter than the Kenmore KW3050 (18.92 lb), Vacmaster VF408 (20.5 lb), Craftsman V20 (7.22 lb), Milwaukee 0880‑20 (11.9 lb), Bosch GAS18V‑3N (10.2 lb) and WEN VC4710 (11 lb). Its 2.5‑ft hose is shorter than the 7‑ft hose on the Kenmore and Vacmaster, the roughly 7‑ft hose on the Craftsman, the 6‑ft hose on the Milwaukee, the 5.25‑ft hose on the Bosch and the 5‑ft hose on the WEN. The tank capacity of 0.5 gallon is also the smallest, compared with 4 gallons on Kenmore and Vacmaster, 2 gallons on Craftsman, Milwaukee and Bosch, and 5 gallons on the WEN model.

Reviewers consistently praise the freedom that comes from its cordless design—no cords to yank around tight spaces. Professional reviewers highlight the lightweight feel (around 3.8 lb bare) and the washable HEPA filter that traps fine dust and allergens. Users love the easy‑to‑clean bagless container and the sturdy latch that keeps the collection bin secure during transport. However, the half‑gallon tank fills up quickly on larger jobs, and the battery and charger aren't included, raising the total purchase cost.

Best for: Professionals and DIY enthusiasts who already own DEWALT 20V MAX batteries and need a lightweight, portable vacuum for quick spot cleaning.

Avoid if: You need long continuous runtime, a large‑capacity tank for big jobs, or a fully bundled package with battery and charger included.

TL;DR: The Vacmaster VF408 offers a 4‑gallon tank, 5 HP peak horsepower and 1626 mm water lift in a compact red unit with HEPA filtration, making it a solid budget wet/dry vacuum.

Its 5 HP peak horsepower paired with a 1626 mm water lift puts it ahead of many entry‑level wet/dry vacs on suction power. At 20.5 pounds, the unit feels solid but remains portable enough for most home chores, and the 125 W air‑watts rating supports strong airflow of 65 CFM while keeping noise at a respectable 70 dB.

Compared with the other ten models in this roundup, the VF408 is heavier than the ultra‑light DeWalt (4.5 lb) and Craftsman (7.22 lb) options, yet it still weighs less than the Kenmore 4‑gallon competitor (18.92 lb). Its 5486 mm power‑cord length and 2134 mm hose give it a longer reach than many compact rivals, and the on‑board hose storage plus automatic cord rewind add convenience that smaller units often lack.

Reviewers consistently praise the dual wet/dry capability and the 2‑stage motor, which delivers strong suction without sacrificing durability. Users also like the washable HEPA exhaust filter that traps fine dust and allergens, and the durable casters that let you move the vacuum around the house easily. The only frequent complaint is the unit’s size, which can feel bulky in very tight spaces.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option

Avoid if: You have limited desk space or need portability

TL;DR: The WEN VC4710 delivers 5.5 HP suction, a 5‑gallon HEPA‑filtered tank, and blower capability in a lightweight 11‑lb package that’s easy to move around the garage.

This model’s standout spec is its 5.5 HP motor paired with an F9 HEPA bag filter that captures particles down to 0.3 microns. A 5‑gallon plastic tank gives you enough capacity for typical home clean‑ups, while the built‑in blower function adds versatility for tasks like clearing leaves or drying surfaces. The hose measures 1.5 in in diameter and reaches 5 ft, and the 9.8‑ft power cord lets you work without constantly swapping outlets.

At 11 lb, the VC4710 is lighter than the Vacmaster VF408’s 20.5 lb frame but heavier than the DeWalt 20V MAX’s 4.5 lb handheld unit. Its airflow of 60 CFM sits just below the 65 CFM reported for both the Vacmaster and the Kenmore KW3050, so it won’t quite match the suction punch of those larger shop vacs. The hose diameter is slightly larger than the Kenmore’s 1.375 in, which can help move debris, while the cord length outpaces the DeWalt’s 2.5‑ft hose but is shorter than the Kenmore’s 7‑ft hose. Compared with the Milwaukee 0880‑20 Red, the WEN offers a bigger tank (5 gal vs 2 gal) and higher sealed pressure (68.25 in vs 32 in), though it lacks a built‑in liquid drain.

Reviewers consistently praise the unit’s portability – the caster wheels and transport handle make it easy to roll across a workshop floor. Users also like the dual vacuum/blower mode, calling it a “versatile clean‑up tool.” The main complaints focus on the modest 5‑gallon capacity, which can require frequent emptying during larger wet‑dry jobs, and the 60 CFM airflow, which some say feels lower than heavier‑duty models. Professional reviewers note the F9 HEPA filtration as a strong point for capturing fine dust.

Additional technical details include a sealed pressure of 68.25 in, a 10‑amp current draw, and a 120 V power requirement. The unit comes with two extension tubes, a crevice nozzle, and a utility nozzle, plus onboard storage for accessories. While the vacuum doesn’t have a built‑in drain, the combination of HEPA filtration, blower function, and caster mobility makes it a solid entry‑level choice for homeowners.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry-level option

TL;DR: The Makita XCV11Z delivers 57 CFM suction, 99.97% HEPA filtration, and up to 60 minutes of cordless operation in a lightweight 10.1‑lb, 2‑gallon unit, but its short hose and premium price may deter budget shoppers.

The standout spec is its 57 CFM airflow combined with a HEPA filter that captures 99.97% of particles, making it a solid choice for allergen‑sensitive environments. It also offers a water lift of 68 580 mm, enough to handle wet clean‑ups in most job sites, while keeping noise under 80 dB(A) at 76 dB(A).

Compared with the other ten models, the XCV11Z is lighter than the Milwaukee Wet/Dry Vacuum (13.1 lb) and a touch lighter than the Bissell Crosswave (10.6 lb). Its 57 CFM airflow tops the Bosch GAS18V‑3N (51 CFM) and the Craftsman V20 (35 CFM), and its 76 dB(A) sound level is quieter than Milwaukee’s 87 dB(A) and matches the Bosch’s 80 dB(A). However, the 2‑ft hose is noticeably shorter than the 6‑ft hoses on Milwaukee and the 5.25‑ft hose on Bosch, which may limit reach in larger spaces.

Reviewers consistently praise the brushless motor for delivering steady suction and the built‑in filter‑cleaning system for easy maintenance. Users also like the LED battery indicator that warns before the 60‑minute runtime runs out. On the downside, several owners note that you need to buy the battery separately and that the short hose can feel restrictive during extended clean‑ups.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high‑quality option

Avoid if: You're on a tight budget or only need basic functionality

TL;DR: The Bissell Crosswave Cordless Plus delivers 1900 sq ft of cordless cleaning with 45 minutes of run time, HEPA‑sealed filtration and a lightweight 10.6 lb design, but its 0.4 L dust cup fills quickly.

The standout spec is its 1900 sq ft cleaning area paired with a 45‑minute battery runtime, letting you move room‑to‑room without hunting for an outlet. At 10.6 lb, the unit feels light enough for quick pick‑ups yet sturdy enough to handle both vacuuming and mopping in one pass.

Compared with the other ten contenders, the Crosswave is lighter than the Milwaukee Wet/Dry Vacuum (13.1 lb) and the Milwaukee 0880‑20 Red (11.9 lb), but heavier than the Craftsman V20 (7.22 lb) and the DeWalt 20V MAX (4.5 lb). Its 43.6‑in height makes it considerably taller than most peers, which hover around 12–16 in. Unlike the Milwaukee, Makita, Bosch and Craftsman models, the Bissell has no hose—so it stays truly cordless, while the others rely on 2‑ to 6‑ft hoses. Runtime sits between the Makita’s up‑to‑60 min and the Milwaukee’s 30+ min, giving up to 45 minutes of runtime, suitable for most apartments.

Reviewers consistently praise the lightweight feel and the self‑cleaning brushroll that keeps pet hair from tangling. Professionals note the HEPA‑sealed system captures 99.97 % of dust and dander, a benefit for allergy sufferers. The most common complaint is the 0.4 L dirt cup, which users say needs emptying often during larger jobs, and some note that suction drops on high‑pile carpets despite the 200 W motor and 11 kPa high‑pressure rating.

The Crosswave also bundles a swivel head, dual‑action vac & mop, built‑in FurFinder headlights and a five‑year warranty. Battery voltage sits at 22.2 V, and charging takes about 4 hr, matching expectations for a cordless stick vacuum in this price tier.

Best for: Small‑apartment dwellers, pet owners and allergy sufferers who value cordless convenience and HEPA filtration.

Avoid if: You need deep‑carpet cleaning in a large home or prefer a larger dust‑collection bin.

TL;DR: The Bosch GAS18V-3N delivers cordless convenience, 99.97% HEPA filtration, and 51 CFM airflow in a 10.2‑lb, 30‑minute runtime package, but its price and modest suction keep it in the mid‑range.

The standout feature is its 18 V cordless design paired with an 8.0 Ah battery that provides roughly 30 minutes of run time. At 51 CFM airflow and a static pressure of 36 in, the unit offers enough suction for typical shop and vehicle clean‑up while staying under 80 dB noise. Its washable HEPA filter captures 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns, and Bosch’s rotational airflow technology pushes debris against the canister walls to help prevent clogs.

Compared with the other ten vacuums in the roundup, the GAS18V‑3N sits in the middle of the weight spectrum: it’s lighter than the Milwaukee 0880‑20 Red (11.9 lb) and the Kenmore KW3050 (18.92 lb) but heavier than the Craftsman V20 (7.22 lb). Its 5.25 ft hose is a bit shorter than Milwaukee’s 6‑ft hose and longer than DeWalt’s 2.5‑ft hose. Airflow-wise, Bosch outperforms Milwaukee’s 45 CFM and Craftsman’s 35 CFM, yet it trails the Kenmore and Vacmaster models that push 65 CFM. Noise is comparable to the Vacmaster’s 70 dB, sitting just at the 80 dB threshold that many users find acceptable for indoor use.

Reviewers consistently praise the vacuum’s compact build and the ease of swapping the washable HEPA filter. Professional reviewers highlight the rotational airflow system as a smart way to keep the canister clear during longer jobs. On the downside, users note that Bosch sells the battery separately, so the 30‑minute runtime can feel restrictive when tackling larger spills. The moderate 51 CFM airflow also means the unit may struggle with heavy‑debris or high‑volume liquid pickup, and several consumer comments echo this point.

Best for: Most users looking for a well‑reviewed, reliable mainstream option

Avoid if: You need advanced features or professional‑grade performance

TL;DR: The Craftsman V20 delivers cordless 35 CFM suction, a 2‑gallon HEPA‑rated tank and a 7.8‑foot hose in a 7.22‑lb package, but the battery must be bought separately.

The standout spec is the 35 CFM suction power paired with a HEPA‑grade filter that captures 99.7% of dust and allergens. At 0.47 hp peak horsepower, the unit can handle both wet and dry messes while the 2‑gallon plastic tank gives you enough capacity for typical garage clean‑ups.

Compared with the other ten vacuums in this roundup, the Craftsman is lighter than the Milwaukee 0880‑20 Red (11.9 lb) and the Kenmore KW3050 (18.92 lb), yet heavier than the DeWalt 20V MAX (4.5 lb). Its 2377 mm hose is longer than Milwaukee’s 6‑foot hose and comparable to the 7‑foot hose on the Kenmore, while the Vacmaster’s hose is slightly shorter at 2134 mm. In terms of airflow, the 35 CFM rating sits below the Milwaukee’s 45 CFM, Bosch’s 51 CFM and the 65 CFM seen on the Kenmore and Vacmaster models.

Professional reviewers praise the float‑ball wet‑pickup safety feature that automatically shuts the motor off when liquids are present, and they highlight the on‑board hose storage as a genuine convenience for workshop use. User sentiment notes the bulkier dimensions and the protruding hose can make stacking in tight closets cumbersome. The requirement to purchase a V20 battery and charger separately is also a frequent point of criticism, adding to the total cost.

Best for: DIY homeowners and workshop enthusiasts who want a cordless, HEPA‑filtered vacuum with decent suction and on‑board hose storage.

Avoid if: You have limited storage space, need the lightest possible unit, or expect the battery to be included.

TL;DR: The Tineco Floor ONE S5 Steam combines 4‑in‑1 vacuum‑mop‑steam cleaning with HEPA filtration and a self‑propelled design, but its 22.34‑lb weight and premium $399 price make it a serious investment for hard‑floor homes.

The standout spec is the 30,000 rpm motor that drives both suction (18 W) and a 100 °C steam output, delivering deep sterilisation while you vacuum. The unit holds 0.75 L of clean water (19.81 gal) and the same amount of dirty water, and it runs steam for 15 minutes before needing a refill. HEPA filtration and a full‑color LED/LCD display round out a feature set that includes three cleaning modes and iLoop smart sensors that auto‑adjust suction and water flow.

At 22.34 pounds (10130 g), the Tineco is noticeably heavier than the Makita XCV11Z (10.5 lb), Bissell Crosswave Cordless Plus (10.6 lb), and even the Milwaukee Wet/Dry Vacuum (13.1 lb). Its 8‑meter cord also out‑reaches the hose lengths of most cordless peers—Makita lists a 2‑ft hose, Milwaukee Red a 6‑ft hose—so you’ll get a longer reach despite being a corded model. However, the dual 0.75 L tanks hold about 0.2 gal each, which is modest compared with the 2‑gallon tanks that Makita, Milwaukee Red and Craftsman V20 provide.

Professional reviewers note that the tandem vacuum‑mop action can cut hard‑floor cleaning time in half, and everyday users praise the ability to melt sticky grease with the 100 °C steam while enjoying a quiet operation at ≤80 dB. The self‑propelled drive eases the strain of moving a 22‑lb unit, yet many users still find the heft cumbersome for stairs or tight‑under‑furniture cleaning. The 15‑minute steam runtime and limited tank size mean you’ll need to pause for refills on larger messes.

Best for: Hard‑floor households that want a premium, all‑in‑one vacuum‑mop‑steam solution and don’t mind a heavier, pricier unit.

Avoid if: You have a tight budget, need extensive carpet cleaning, or require a lightweight, highly portable device for tight spaces.

TL;DR: The Kenmore KW3050 offers a 4‑gallon tank, 18‑foot cord and 5‑peak HP motor for solid wet/dry performance, though its non‑HEPA filter and 72 dB noise keep it from being a premium choice.

What really stands out is the 4‑gallon tank capacity paired with a 7‑foot hose and an 18‑foot retractable cord, giving you plenty of reach for garage spills or basement clean‑ups. The unit delivers 65 CFM airflow and 64 Air Watts, and the 5‑peak HP motor draws 840 W at 120 V, which gives the suction power needed for both liquids and dry debris.

At 18.92 lb, the KW3050 is heavier than the 4.5‑lb DeWalt 20V MAX and the 7.22‑lb Craftsman V20, but lighter than the 20.5‑lb Vacmaster VF408. Its 7‑ft hose outpaces the 2.5‑ft hose on the DeWalt and matches the 6‑ft hose on the Milwaukee 0880‑20 Red, while still being shorter than the Vacmaster’s 2134‑mm hose. In terms of tank size, the KW3050’s 4 gallons sit between the 0.5‑gallon DeWalt and the 5‑gallon WEN VC4710, offering more capacity than most cordless or compact models.

Reviewers consistently praise the vacuum’s versatility and “powerful suction” across carpets, hard floors and stairs, noting that the 5‑peak HP motor handles wet messes reliably. Professional reviewers also highlight the convenience of the retractable cord and onboard storage. The main criticisms focus on the 72 dB noise level, which can be noticeable in quiet rooms, and the washable filter that isn’t HEPA‑rated, limiting its usefulness for allergy‑sensitive users.

Best for: Homeowners, renters and hobbyists who need a solid wet/dry vacuum with a sizable tank and extended reach for garage or workshop clean‑ups.

Avoid if: You want the best value‑per‑dollar in its price range or require HEPA filtration for allergy‑sensitive environments.