Cleaning the inside of your car is made much easier by using a dedicated vacuum for car detailing. They often come as a complete kit with various attachments and nozzles that are best suited for tackling tight spaces or stubborn dirt.
The best vacuum for car detailing is the Armor All AA255, which has the ability to pickup wet or dry debris and is easily converted to a blower. If you require a fixed wall mounted alternative, the VacuMaid GV50PRO is the best option.
Car vacuum cleaners are available as corded, cordless, wall mounted or 12V types where each have their own benefits. Choosing the best option is dependent upon its usage and whether it will be in constant use on a daily basis.
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Car Vacuum Cleaner Comparison
| Car Vacuum | Type | Hose Length |
|---|---|---|
| Armor All AA255 | Corded | 6 Foot |
| Dyson V11 Torque Drive | Cordless | N/A |
| VacuMaid GV50PRO | Wall Mounted | 50 Foot |
| Bissell Garage Pro | Wall Mounted | 32 Feet |
| BISSELL 19851 | Cordless | N/A |
| Metrovac Vac N Blo | Corded | 6 Foot |
| DEWALT DCV581H | Corded & Cordless | 5 Foot |
| BLACK DECKER Dustbuster | Cordless | N/A |
| HOTOR Cleaner | 12V | N/A |
| BISSELL 3624 SpotClean | Cordless | N/A |
The vacuum hose length is an important factor to consider because it will be difficult to use if it’s too short. We advise that you measure the total length of the car to determine if it will reach each area of the car with ease.
Interior car detailing will require multiple nozzles to tackle tight spaces or large areas for efficiently and it’s worth buying a complete kit.
Below is a list of the best car vacuum cleaners that are designed specifically for car detailing and can tackle stubborn dirt or debris.
The Best Vacuum For Car Detailing
1. Armor All AA255 Car Detailing Vacuum
The Armor All AA25 is an affordable car detailing vacuum that can handle both wet and dry pickup. It’s a lightweight unit that comes with a variety of accessories and on-board storage to keep the components and hose organized.
Compared with many other cheap car vacuums, this model even include a car dryer blower function that can be easily converted in a matter of minutes.
Other features of the Armor All AA25 include:
- 2.5 gallon polypropylene tank
- 2 HP electric motor
- 10 feet long power cord with cord wrap
- Storage for accessories and the hose
- 6 foot long flexible hose
- No assembly required
- Built-in air and noise diffuser
- Safety automatic shut off functionality
- Wet and dry pickup
Accessories that are included with this vacuum for car detailing include a reusable cloth filter, sleeve, 2-in-1 utility nozzle, detail brush, crevice tool and other nozzles.
Armor All are a reputable brand in the automotive industry and their car vacuum cleaner is the best budget option. Whether you require vacuuming of solids or liquids from your cars interior, the 2 horsepower motor provides plenty of suction.
Check it Out2. Dyson V11 Torque Drive Cordless Vacuum
The V11 is the latest vacuum cleaner from Dyson’s V series and they claim it has twice the suction power of any cord-free alternatives. However, this does come at a premium price because it’s one of the most expensive models in this article.
A unique feature of this vacuum cleaner is the ability to automatically adapt to different floor types, which alters the suction for the best performance.
Other features of the Dyson V11 Torque Drive include:
- Up to 60 minutes run time
- Intuitive LCD display
- Multiple power modes
- Auto adapts for the type of floor
- 40% more suction power than the V8 model
- Superior filtration that captures 99.97% of dust particles
- Convenient docking station for charging and storage
- Various attachment tools for effective cleaning
- Includes a two year warranty
Depending upon the size of the car, it has three power levels that are easily switchable via the LCD display, which also shows the run time countdown.
The Dyson V11 Torque Drive is the best option if you are looking for both a car detailing and household vacuum. It’s the ultimate vacuum cleaner that is backed by the reputable Dyson brand. If the V11 model is too expensive, the predecessor models offer a more affordable alternative with a similar design.
Check it Out3. VacuMaid GV50PRO Wall Mounted Car Vacuum
The VacuMaid GV50PRO is a wall mounted car vacuum cleaner that comes as a complete kit. It has been designed specifically for car detailing and includes an extra long 50 feet hose, which allows you to easily go around the car.
To power up the vacuum, it uses a large 5.7 inch Ametek Lamb motor, which the brand state provides up to 75% more life than the alternatives.
Other features of the VacuMaid GV50PRO include:
- Designed specifically for car detailing
- Wall mount bracket installs in minutes
- 7 gallon dirt tank capacity
- Galvanized steel and powder coated to resist corrosion
- Made in the USA
- Disposable sealed HEPA type bag
- 50 foot long flexible hose
- Multiple tools and accessories included
- Choice of 7 color options
- Includes a long 5 year warranty
VacuMaid take great pride in their work and all of their products are made in the USA in their main facility in Ponca City.
The VacuMaid GV50PRO is the best wall mounted vacuum for car detailing and it comes as a complete kit with a range of accessories. It does come with a premium price but it has a solid construction and is backed by a five year warranty for peace of mind.
Check it Out4. BISSELL Garage Pro Wall-Mounted Car Vacuum
Another wall mounted vacuum for car detailing is the Bissell Garage Pro. It’s a 12 amp option that is suitable for both dry or wet pickup and also converts to a blower. Compared to the other wall mounted alternatives, it also offer the best value for money.
Included with the complete kit is the wall mounting kit, extra long hose, extension tools, 7 attachments and a 5 foot long power cord.
Other features of the Bissell Garage Pro include:
- Dry and wet pickup
- Bagless 4 gallon semi translucent tank
- Converts to a blower
- 2 stage filtration system
- 32 feet long stretchable hose
- 7 versatile attachments
- All mounting hardware included
- 12 amp electric motor
The Bissell Garage Pro is an excellent all-round wall mounted vacuum for car detailing that won’t disappoint. Everything that you require is included within the kit and the brand offer plenty of spare parts of accessories to go with it too.
Check it Out5. BISSEL Multi Auto Detailing Vacuum
The BISSEL brand produce a range of car vacuums but the 19851 model is their new and improved model. The brand state that it has been specifically designed for car detailing with various tools that help improve its usability.
A distinctive feature of this vacuum for car detailing is the motorized turbo brush. It provides additional cleaning power when cleaning carpets, seats or other fabrics.
Other features of the BISSEL Multi 19851 include:
- 0.4 liter dirt cup capacity
- 22V lithium ion battery
- 2 foot long extension hose
- Crevice tool for tight spaces
- Bright LED lighting for dark areas
- Ergonomic grip for extended use
- Integrated dusting brush
- Easy to empty and clean
The BISSEL Multi 19851 is one of the most versatile vacuum cleaners on the market and perfect for car detailing. It’s able to clean tight spaces and has a dedicated “turbo” brush for tackling dirty interior carpets and seats.
If you require a cheaper alternative, the predecessor model is still a great option but this model is the latest with superior performance.
Check it Out6. Metrovac Vac N’ Blo Automotive Vacuum
The Metrovac brand are highly reputable in the USA and produce a range of vacuums and dryers. The Vac N’ Blo model is one of their most powerful car vacuum cleaners available that uses twin fan 4 horsepower motors, which creates 95 inches of water lift.
Unlike many of the alternatives, it’s an all-steel construction that is lightweight and has a compact designed for easy storage.
Other features of the Metrovac Vac N Blo’ include:
- The most powerful vacuum for car detailing
- Twin-fan 4HP motors
- Vacuum and blower functionality
- 6 foot long flexible hose
- Multiple attachments included
- 12 foot long power cord
- Made in the USA
The Metrovac Vac N Blo’ is a lightweight and durable vacuum for car detailing that is built to the highest of standards. It does come with a premium price but it’s one of the most powerful options available and can also be used for other applications.
It’s worth mentioning that the brand offer many other car vacuums that include handheld, cordless and wall mounted models.
Check it Out7. DEWALT DCV581H Wet and Dry Car Vacuum
The DEWALT DCV581H is a unique car vacuum because it can operate via an AC outlet as well as a lithium ion battery. This makes it very versatile and it allows you to choose a power option that best suits your requirements.
A desirable feature of this car vacuum cleaner is the integrated HEPA filter. The brand state that it captures up to 99.97% of dust particles.
Other features of the DEWALT DCV581H include:
- Crush resistant 5 foot long hose
- On-board storage for hose and accessories
- Washable and reusable filter
- 2 gallon dirt tank capacity
- Wet and dry pickup
- Long three year warranty
- Heavy duty construction
- Weighs 11 LBS
- Detailed usage instructions
DEWALT are known for their high quality products and this car vacuum cleaner doesn’t disappoint and comes with a 3 year warranty for peace of mind.
It offers the best of both worlds by being both corded and cordless, which is the main reason for the popularity. It’s also fairly powerful considering the lightweight design. The only main drawback is that it’s quite expensive compared to the alternatives.
Check it Out8. BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster Handheld Vacuum
By far the most popular car vacuum cleaner is the BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster, which is an affordable handheld option. To power up the motor, it uses a lithium ion battery that provides a long battery life and superior performance.
The Dustbuster has a unique rotating slim nozzles, which is ideal for car detailing as you are able to tackle tight spaces and other applications.
Other features of the BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster include:
- Handheld vacuum
- 15.2 watts of suction power
- Dust bowl capacity of 20.6 ounce
- Holds charge for up to 18 months
- Patented Smart Charge technology
- Includes a two year warranty
- Easy to clean filter and canister
The cordless handheld vacuum cleaner by BLACK+DECKER is an excellent option for your average car owner. It’s cheap and has a high performing motor that provides great suction for vacuuming all the dust or dirt within your car.
Check it Out9. HOTOR Handheld 12V Car Vacuum Cleaner
The HOTOR is an affordable handheld vacuum cleaner that the brand states is for car use only. Unlike any of the alternatives within this article, it uses a 12V power source to power up the electric motor for instant suction power.
It’s the brands new and improved version, which has the inclusion of a durable stainless steel filter, easy to use dust cup and LED light.
Other features of the HOTOR 12V Car Vacuum Cleaner include:
- 16.4 feet long power cord
- LED light for dark areas
- Multiple attachments and storage bag included
- Stainless steel HEPA filter that is washable
- Detachable head for removing dirt
- Lightweight with an ergonomic grip
- More powerful motor than previous models
The new and improved HOTOR unit is the best 12V car vacuum cleaner available with many intuitive upgrades. Unlike the alternatives, it included more accessories and build to a far better quality with the likes of a stainless steel HEPA filter.
Check it Out10. BISSELL 3624 SpotClean Car Cleaner
The Bissell SpotClean is another popular option that combines a vacuum suction, scrubbing action and cleaning solution for the best results. It’s the best choice for those that require both a steam cleaner for cars and vacuum for removing tough stains.
It has been specifically designed for car detailing and is suitable for stains or stubborn dirt simply that won’t clear with a standard vacuum.
Other features of the Bissell 3624 SpotClean include:
- 5 foot long flexible hose
- Tank capacity of 0.75 gallon
- 9 attachments included
- Suitable for multiple applications
- 22 foot long power cord
- Weighs 13.2 LBS
- Includes a two year warranty
The ability to remove stains, odors and tough dirt is a highly desirable trait. The Bissell 3624 SpotClean is the best option at doing exactly that and it won’t disappoint.
It’s a popular option that provides superior results when it comes to clearing stubborn stains and dirt. However, if you are going to use it mostly for normal vacuuming instead of a deep clean, the alternatives will be a better option. This is because it lacks suction power and dirt capacity, which make increase the time it takes to detail your car.
Check it OutCar Vacuum Buying Guide
Using a dedicated vacuum for car detailing will allow you to work more efficiently and achieve a much deeper clean. There are hundreds of vacuums that meet the requirements but the budget may determine the unit that best suits your requirements.
To help you make an informed buying decision, we have produced the below guide regarding car vacuum cleaners.
Types of Car Vacuums
Vacuum cleaners in general have improved massively over the last few years. When it comes to choosing a vacuum for car detailing, there is a choice of a wall mounted, corded, cordless or a 12V type, which all have their own benefits.
Wall Mounted
Using a wall mounted car vacuum is very popular among professional detailers or those with a garage. They offer superior performance and a much larger dirt tank for collection the pickup. Due to the fact that the vacuum is fixed, the hose is far longer that allows it to reach all areas of the car.
The two drawback with the wall mounted type is that they are not portable at all, which may be a problem for larger cars or trucks. The other drawback is that they are often the most expensive but they are a worthwhile investment.
Corded
The standard type of car vacuum is one that is connected to an AC outlet. They are portable, have endless power and offer a medium sized dirt tank capacity for extended use.
Using a corded car vacuum is an excellent all-round option that is ideal for car detailing with models suited for all budgets. The only potential drawback is that the power cord can get in the way and you will need access to an outlet.
Cordless
A cordless vacuum for car detailing offers maximum freedom of movement, which makes vacuuming the interior far easier. Due to the technological advancements in lithium ion batteries, they are now far more long lasting than they were a few years back.
For the average car owner with one or two cars to clean, the cordless vacuum cleaner is the best option. However, trying to clean two or more cars from a single charge may be difficult as you will run out of charge. Another potential issue is that they have a smaller tank capacity, which means you will have to empty it more often.
12V
A 12V car vacuum cleaner is a great option that can be easily stored inside of the car. It’s powered via the cigarette lighter socket and it has a power cord that is the length of the average car. Due to the compact design, they are not as powerful and have a small tank capacity, which may not be suitable for vacuuming the whole car.
Wet and Dry Pickup
All vacuums will be able to pickup dry dirt but not all of them will be able to vacuum liquid or very wet debris. Although it’s quite rare to vacuum liquid inside of a car, there may be occasions such as drink spillages inside of the car. You may also be using a car interior cleaner that makes the interior wet and this can be easily vacuumed up.
Suction Power
Car mats and carpets are more durable than household upholstery and for that reason alone, it’s important to get a powerful car vacuum. However, providing a vacuum with power is easy with a bigger battery but this can make the vacuum less portable due to the weight.
An efficient motor that provides both a powerful suction via a small motor is highly desirable. This often come at a premium cost, which is not ideal for those on a tight budget. The power ratings of the vacuum are expressed by either the amperage or horsepower.
Power Cord and Hose Length
The combined length of the power cord and hose will need to be longer than the length of the car. This will allow you to access all areas without having to switch outlets frequently, which is time consuming and can become frustrating.
However, cordless car vacuum cleaner don’t have this issue, which is a great benefit and makes them an excellent choice for car detailing.
Tank Capacity
The capacity of the tank varies between the different types of vacuums with wall mounted units having the largest. Depending on how frequently you vacuum your car will determine the amount of dirt that gets captured and stored in the dirt tank.
Wall mount vacuums don’t need to worry about portability and often have tank capacities between 2 and 5 gallons. Whereas corded options have a tank capacity of 1 to 2 gallons and cordless has the smallest capacity, which is less than half a gallon in most cases.
Attachments and Nozzles
In order to further improve the usability of the car vacuum cleaner, it’s advised that you purchase additional attachments or nozzles. Most brands will provide these at an extra cost but they are a worthwhile investment that will improve your efficiency.
The most common additional components include a crevice tool, brush nozzles, motorized brush, hose extension, blower nozzle and much more.
Warranty
As with any electronic device, it can be difficult to know when things are going to break. If a motor was to break due to a defect, it would be an expensive part to replace. You will also have the issue of whether the brand provide readily available spare parts.
Ensuring that the vacuum has a minimum of a 1 year warranty is highly recommended because if something was to break, it would be in the first 6 months.
Tips for Vacuuming your Car
If you are new to car detailing and want to ensure you get the best results, below are some of our top tips for vacuuming your car.
- Remove all large debris before vacuuming.
- Take the car mats out and clean out of the car.
- Before putting back the mats, vacuum the area.
- Switch to a soft brush nozzle for delicate surfaces.
- Fully recline the seats to find hidden dirt.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the car vacuum cleaner is highly advised to ensure it’s working to the best of its abilities. You will want to ensure that the filter is clean, the brushes are not clogged up with dirt and ensure each component is clean. Although you don’t have to do this each and every time, it’s worth doing it every once in a while.
Conclusion
If you are looking to improve your interior detailing, using a dedicated car vacuum instead of your household vacuum is highly advised. They are designed for auto interior surfaces and often come as a complete kit with various nozzles or attachments.
All of our recommendations are suited to a range of budgets and included all the types suitable for car detailing. If possible, we recommend that you purchase the additional attachments because they can become very useful when required.
