UPDATE: Aug. 2, 2023, 5:00 a.m. EDT This review has been updated with new car vacuums based on the author's hands-on testing.
One of life’s most simple pleasures is the feeling of a freshly detailed car. While you can always head to the car wash to vacuum out your car, the car wash vacuum simply can’t maneuver as well (and isn’t as convenient) as specially designed at-home car vacuum cleaners. The best car vacuums have all the necessary tools and power to reach every nook and cranny of your vehicle for the deepest clean possible.
You may never get that new car smell back again, but you can still avoid the dreaded old car smell. To help you keep your car tidy, I went searching for the best car vacuum cleaner. All of the products featured in this review have been hands-on tested, and I only included vacuums that aced my cleaning tests. My household includes three dogs, so I had plenty of pet hair available for testing. On top of that, Mashable has reviewed tons more vacuums, from the best cordless vacuums to the latest Dyson vacs and the best self-emptying robot vacuums, and so we know what to look for in a cleaning machine.
With all this in mind, I've gathered the best car vacuum cleaners below. First, here's what you need to consider when shopping for handheld car vacuums.
How powerful should a car vacuum be?
The power of a car vacuum can be measured several ways. Total suction power is sometimes expressed as air watts (AW), while motor power is often measured in watts (W). Alternatively, as most car vacuums are now cordless and powered by lithium-ion batteries, the vacuum's power may also be expressed in volts (V). Watts and volts don't directly describe a particular vacuum's suction power, but they can be a good proxy for an appliance's overall cleaning power.
For general cleaning tasks, a car vacuum with a suction power between 12 AW to15 AW should be sufficient. Unfortunately, most vacuum manufacturers don't disclose their products' suction power. In terms of motor power, vacuums between 75 W to 150 W should get the job done. This power range can effectively handle common debris such as dust, crumbs, dirt, and pet hair. Battery-powered vacuums typically range from 12V cordless vacuums all the way up to 25V. That said, I tested one 8V vacuum that did a fine job.
In general, portable handheld car vacuums that fall within the ranges described above will be suitable for regular maintenance and spot cleaning, although they may struggle to clean your entire home. If you frequently encounter stubborn dirt, heavy particles, or extreme amounts of pet hair, you might want to consider a more powerful vacuum cleaner with a motor power above 150 W. These higher-powered vacuums can handle tougher dirt, sand, gravel, and other difficult-to-remove debris.
Ultimately, the choice of vacuum power depends on your specific cleaning requirements and preferences. Consider the type of dirt you commonly encounter in your car, the frequency of cleaning, and your budget when selecting a car vacuum. It's also a good idea to read car vacuum reviews and compare specifications to find a vacuum that meets your needs.
What is the best cordless car vacuum?
The best cordless car vacuum for you will depend on your specific cleaning needs, preferences, and budget. Consider factors such as battery life, attachments, suction power, and overall convenience when selecting a cordless car vacuum. To help you make up your mind, I've included several cordless vacuums for cars in the review below.
But, if you're looking for spoilers, I believe the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser is the best cordless vacuum for cars, while the Dirt Devil Quick Flip is my top budget pick.
What to look for when purchasing a car vacuum
When looking for the best car vacuum, there are several factors you should consider to ensure you make the right choice. Here are some key aspects to look for:
Suction Power: The vacuum should have sufficient suction power to effectively clean your car's interior. Look for models with high air watts (AW) or motor power (W) ratings, as they indicate stronger suction.
Portability and Size: Consider the size and weight of the vacuum. A compact and lightweight design will make it easier to maneuver and store, especially in the limited space of a car.
Power Source: Decide whether you prefer a corded or cordless vacuum. Corded vacuums provide continuous power but may have limited reach, while cordless vacuums offer greater mobility but are dependent on battery life.
Battery Life and Charging Time (for cordless vacuums): If you opt for a cordless vacuum, check the battery life to ensure it can handle your cleaning needs without frequent recharging. Additionally, consider the charging time required to fully replenish the battery.
Attachments and Accessories: Look for a vacuum that comes with a variety of attachments suitable for different cleaning tasks. Common attachments include crevice tools, brush attachments, and upholstery brushes. These accessories can enhance the vacuum's versatility and effectiveness.
Filtration System: A good filtration system is important to trap dust, allergens, and other particles, preventing them from being released back into the air (and straight into your lungs). Vacuums with HEPA filters are particularly effective in capturing small particles and allergens.
Ease of Use and Maintenance: Consider the vacuum's user-friendly features, such as ergonomic design, intuitive controls, and easy-to-empty dust canisters or bags. Removable and washable filters are also convenient for long-term maintenance.
Noise Level: Check vacuum reviews (like this one) or product specifications for information on the noise level of the vacuum. If you prefer a quieter cleaning experience, look for models specifically marketed as low-noise or silent — and for reviews that confirm it.
Price and Warranty: Set a budget for your car vacuum purchase and compare prices among different brands and models. Additionally, consider the warranty provided by the manufacturer to ensure you have proper coverage in case of any defects or issues.
What about wet/dry car vacuums?
The commercial vacuum cleaners you find at the car wash may have some additional features lacking in handheld car vacuum cleaners. These machines are usually bulkier and have larger dirt tanks. In addition, they are usually wet/dry vacuums, and the top models double as a car vacuum and blower.
For this review, we focused on testing handheld and cordless car vacuums. However, if you're looking for wet/dry car vacuum cleaners and blowers, then we recommend the Armor All Utility Vacuum 2.5 Gallon ($49.99 at Auto Zone) or the Bissell Garage Pro Wall-Mounted Wet/Dry Car Vacuum and Blower ($226.59 at Amazon).
With the above information in mind, here are six of the best car vacuums. All of these vacs passed our cleaning tests and provide a good value for the money.
