Car vacuums are essential tools for maintaining the cleanliness and comfort of your vehicle’s interior.
Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate inside our cars, making them feel less inviting and even impacting the air quality.
A dedicated car vacuum solves this issue by providing the power and versatility needed to clean all the nooks and crannies of any car interior with ease.
We spent countless hours researching and testing various car vacuums to help you identify the options that deliver top-notch performance and convenience for a sparkling clean car interior.
Best Car Vacuums
Best Overall Car Vacuum: BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Flex
Best Compact Car Vacuum: ThisWorx Car Vacuum Cleaner
Best Cordless Car Vacuum: Hoover ONEPWR Blade MAX
Best Strong Suction Power Car Vacuum: Eufy HomeVac H30 Venture
Best Budget Car Vacuum: BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster
Best 3-in-1 Car Vacuum: Brigii 3in1 M1
Best Powerful Car Vacuum: DEWALT DCV501HB
Best Small Handheld Car Vacuum: Bissell 47R51
Best HEPA Filtration Car Vacuum: Milwaukee M18 VC2
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Flex
If you’re in need of a portable and powerful vacuum for pet hair and small messes, this BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Flex is the one for you.
Pros
- Cordless, lightweight, and compact design
- Strong suction power and pet hair brush
- Washable filter and easy-to-empty dirt bowl
Cons
- Takes 4 hours to charge fully
- Limited run time on a single charge
- Not ideal for heavy-duty cleaning tasks
We recently tried out the BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Flex Cordless Stick Vacuum and found it to be perfect for quick cleanups around the house, especially if you have pets.
The compact, cordless design makes it easy to maneuver and reach tight spaces. It’s great for everyday messes like crumbs, dust, and pet hair on various surfaces.
The vacuum comes with a pet hair brush attachment that effectively removes stubborn pet hair from carpets, stairs, and upholstery.
The 20V MAX Lithium battery provides strong suction power, while the four-foot flexible hose helps you clean floor to ceiling.
However, it’s worth noting that the vacuum takes about 4 hours to fully charge and has a limited runtime, so it might not be the best choice for large-scale cleaning tasks.
- CORDLESS, PORTABLE, & ULTRA COMPACT - 20V MAX Lithium Hand Vac with Pet Brush..Voltage ‎120 Volts. Charging Time 4 hrs
- FOUR FOOT FLEXIBLE HOSE - Clean floor to ceiling
- WASHABLE BOWL AND FILTER - Easy-to-clean 17 oz. capacity dirt bowl.Suction power:24 AW
- QUICK CHARGING - Charging station and base keeps the unit charged and accessories organized.
- PET BRUSH - Clean stubborn pet hair from carpets, stairs, and other upholstery.
ThisWorx Car Vacuum Cleaner
This portable car vacuum cleaner is a worthy investment for maintaining a clean car interior with its compact design, powerful suction, and versatile attachments.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight for ease of use and storage
- Powerful suction with 106W motor and washable HEPA filter
- Versatile attachments for different cleaning tasks
Cons
- Powered through the 12V car outlet, which could cause disconnection during use
- May struggle with heavier debris
- Limited to cleaning areas within the 16ft cord range
We recently used the ThisWorx Car Vacuum Cleaner to give our car a thorough cleaning.
The compact and lightweight design made it easy to maneuver and reach various spots within the vehicle.
The 106W motor provided a strong suction force that had no trouble picking up ash, dust, and crumbs.
The washable HEPA filter was a great addition. We found it practical and convenient as it trapped dust particles and allergens effectively.
The vacuum also comes with three attachments: a flathead, an extendable nozzle, and a brush nozzle.
These attachments allowed us to clean different surfaces and access tight spots, enhancing the overall cleaning experience.
While the vacuum cleaner plugs into the car’s 12V outlet, we found that if we moved around too much, the plug sometimes disconnected from the outlet.
Additionally, the vacuum might struggle with heavier debris, such as wet sand, and could be limited by the 16ft cord length.
- PRACTICAL: A mini vacuum for car or truck that is compact, lightweight (2.4 lbs), and easy to use. Equipped with a HEPA filter, this small dustbuster is ready for ash, dust, or drive-thru food spills. A fully loaded interior car detailing kit housed in an ergonomic design
- POWERFUL: This hand held vacuum is made for on-the-go use and solving out-of-reach problems. A very sandy day at the beach? A coat of dog hair? The portable vacuum cleaner for car is designed to solve problems
- STRONG SUCTION: The cyclonic force and strong suction of the 106w motor on these handheld vacuums will terminate any dirt, debris, or hard-to-reach crumbs. Our mini car vacuum even has a top of the line washable filter
- CAR CLEANING KIT: Includes 3 attachments for detailing (flathead, extendable, or brush nozzle), carry bag, filter brush, and spare HEPA filter. Must-have car accessories for women or men; these gadgets will keep the interior cute and tidy
- CONVENIENT: Is the battery always dying when you need a car vac? These truck accessories for men & women use the 12v aux outlet. The 16-foot cord gives the slack needed to clean the back seat or trunk without a snag. Also great for cleaning boats with a 12V cigarette lighter port or are within the 16ft cord range
Hoover ONEPWR Blade MAX
The Hoover ONEPWR Blade MAX AutoVac is a must-have for those seeking a versatile and powerful car vacuum cleaner with great battery life.
Pros
- Cordless convenience and lightweight design
- Impressive suction power
- Useful accessory kit for various cleaning tasks
Cons
- Battery life could be longer for extended use
- May struggle with stubborn pet hair
- Noise level might be a concern for some users
We were excited to test out the Hoover ONEPWR Blade MAX AutoVac, and our experience did not disappoint.
Its cordless design made it easy to maneuver and clean all types of vehicles, from cars to RVs and boats.
The lightweight construction of this handheld vacuum allowed us to carry it around conveniently, making it essential for quick and effortless cleaning.
The accessory kit that comes with the Hoover ONEPWR Blade MAX AutoVac includes an extension hose, motorized pet tool, flexi-crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, and tough dirt tool.
This versatile set of tools enabled us to tackle various cleaning tasks such as pet hair removal and embedded dirt extraction on car seats and floorboards. However, while the vacuum boasts considerable suction power, we noticed that it might struggle with stubborn pet hair on specific surfaces.
Another aspect we appreciated about the Hoover ONEPWR Blade MAX AutoVac was its DustVault Technology.
This feature successfully captures 99.4% of particles with No Loss of Suction, ensuring thorough cleaning.
The vacuum also includes two removable and rechargeable ONEPWR Lithium-Ion batteries, providing decent battery life. However, we wish the battery life were longer to accommodate extended cleaning sessions.
One note of caution for potential buyers is the noise level of this vacuum. It operates at 78 dB, which might be a concern for some users.
- HIGH PERFORMANCE DIGITAL MOTOR: Efficiently tackles tough messes with maximum power
- CORDLESS: Delivers cord-free convenience powered by the removable and rechargeable ONEPWR Battery
- DUAL CYCLONIC DUSTVAULT TECHNOLOGY: Captures 99% of dust and fine particles with No Loss of Suction for continuous cleaning
- MULTI-SURFACE BRUSH ROLL: Engineered for optimal cleaning performance on carpet and hard floors
- MICROFIBER HARD FLOOR NOZZLE: Captures dust and large debris with the soft microfiber roller
Eufy HomeVac H30 Venture
This cordless car vacuum is a powerful and convenient option for quick clean-ups in your car and home.
Pros
- Incredible suction power in a lightweight design
- Versatile attachments for different cleaning tasks
- Convenient charging and storage dock
Cons
- Charging dock has limited storage for attachments
- Can be quite loud on high suction setting
- Not suitable for wet surfaces
Using the Eufy HomeVac H30 Venture, we found the 80 AW / 16kPa suction power impressive in tackling debris with ease.
We easily switched between Eco and Max mode, depending on the mess we had to clean up. At 1.78 lbs, it’s very lightweight, which allowed us to reach places like air vents, high shelves, and light fixtures without hassle.
Taking the H30 Venture out to the car, we effortlessly cleaned those pesky crevices between the seat and the center console.
The variety of provided tools, including the multi-surface tool and 2-in-1 crevice tool, proved very useful for different messes and surfaces.
The charging and storage dock kept the vacuum ready for use and the space tidy.
However, we noticed that the charging base has limited room for storing all the attachments.
It is also worth mentioning that, although the vacuum has a powerful suction, it can be quite loud on the high setting.
- CORDLESS SUCTION POWER: Incredible 80 AW / 16kPa suction power delivers extra strength to effectively clean up debris. Switch between Eco or Max mode depending on your messes.
- ULTRA-LIGHTWEIGHT: At 1.78 lbs (808 g), you can effortlessly clean places that you haven't been able to before—like air vents, high shelves, or light fixtures.
- CLEAN THE CAR: Take it out to the car and easily clean that pesky crevice between the seat and center console.
- CHARGE AND STORE: Keep everything charged and stored in one place, so H30 is always ready when you need it.
- VERSATILE USAGE: Choose between various tools, like the multi-surface tool and 2-in-1 crevice tool to tackle different messes.
BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster
This car vacuum is a solid choice for those seeking a lightweight and versatile tool for light to moderate cleanup tasks.
Pros
- Flexible hose for tight spots and awkward areas
- Brush tool for versatile cleaning of upholstery
- Cyclonic action for consistently strong suction power
Cons
- Corded design limits mobility
- Not as powerful as a shop vacuum
- Storage bag may be too small for all accessories
We recently used the BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster in our vehicle and appreciated the flexibility it offered during our cleaning session.
The flexible hose made it easy to maneuver around tight spots and awkward areas in our car.
The addition of the brush tool allowed us to effectively clean the upholstery surfaces, making our vehicle’s interior look refreshed.
The cyclonic action of the Dustbuster ensures that dust and debris are spun away from the filter, providing consistently strong suction power.
Despite its lightweight design, we noticed that it handled light to moderate debris quite well.
However, if your car has heavier dirt or larger debris, this vacuum might not be the most effective option.
One downside we noticed while using the vacuum was its corded design.
With a cord length of 16ft, it needs to be plugged into the vehicle’s 12V DC socket, limiting mobility during cleaning sessions.
However, the wraparound cable feature does make it easier to store the vacuum after use.
Lastly, while the vacuum comes with a storage bag to keep accessories easily accessible, we found it to be a bit small for storing all the included tools.
- EASY CORDLESS CLEANING - Lightweight and portable lithium-Ion dustbuster Hand Vacuum is great for quick clean ups and dry spills around the house.
- BAGLESS DESIGN - 13 ounce translucent, bagless dirt bowl for easy maintenance and cleaning
- ONE-STEP STORAGE AND CHARGING - Wall mount base and charger for out of the way storage.
- CREVICE TOOL - Clean hard-to-reach spaces with ease
- UPHOLSTERY BRUSH - Included for dusting and fabric surfaces
Brigii 3in1 M1
The Brigii 3in1 M1 is a versatile and portable choice for tackling small messes around the car, home, and office.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable design
- 3in1 functionality: vacuum, blower, and hand pump
- USB-C charging for convenience
Cons
- Limited power compared to larger vacuums
- 20-minute runtime may not be enough for larger tasks
- Could get very warm during extended use
The Brigii 3in1 M1 is an excellent solution for those seeking a compact and versatile device for tackling small messes.
We found it particularly efficient for spot cleaning in tight spaces such as car interiors, desks, and keyboards.
Its lightweight design of 1.07 pounds and built-in air-duct technology ensure powerful suction, making it easier to handle and maneuver during use.
One of the standout features of this vacuum is its innovative 3in1 functionality.
In addition to serving as a dust buster, it also functions as a blower and hand pump.
This gives the vacuum a wide variety of applications, from cleaning camera lenses to inflating small items.
With its USB-C charging capability, it is easy to charge the vacuum in various scenarios, such as at home or in the car.
Despite its numerous perks, the Brigii 3in1 Handheld Vacuum isn’t perfect.
Its 20-minute runtime may fall short when trying to tackle larger cleaning tasks.
Additionally, the vacuum’s power might not be enough for heavy-duty jobs compared to larger models.
Some users have reported the vacuum getting warm during extended use, which could be concerning.
- Compact design and powerful suction: The light weight small vacuum cleaner weighs just 1.07lbs, and the built-in unique air-duct technology providing powerful suction.
- Innovative 3 in 1 multifunction: It not only just a portable vacuum, but also a dust buster and hand pump.
- Multiple accessories for different occasions: The accessories of this portable vacuum have at least 5 combinations that can be used as keyboard cleaner, floor and window cleaner, car interior cleaner. It's easy to use, not only solve the debris in hard-to-reach places, but also can work on crevices or camera lenses.
- Long battery life& Type-C charging:The wireless vacuum not only supports the charging current with 500mAh to 3A but is also suitable for different USB charging scenarios, the vacuum provides up to 20 minutes of continuous cleaning power after fully charged.
- Washable dual-filtration: The vacuum matches stainless filter with the HEPA filter, which can be washable and reusable.
DEWALT DCV501HB
The DEWALT DCV501HB is a powerful and versatile option that suits various jobsite cleanups.
Pros
- Strong suction performance (46 CFM)
- Six attachment accessories for versatile cleaning
- Integrated bright LED light
Cons
- Battery not included
- Requires regular filter cleaning
- A bit heavy
We recently tried the DEWALT DCV501HB, and we were impressed with its performance.
This vacuum has powerful suction, thanks to its 46 CFM, which allowed us to efficiently pick up debris ranging from dust and drywall to small screws and nails.
It’s also incredibly versatile—it comes with six different attachment accessories, including an extension tube, floor nozzle, and crevice nozzle, which let us tackle various cleaning tasks with ease.
What’s more, the vacuum has a bright LED light that illuminates dark spaces like no other vacuum we’ve used before.
This feature came in very handy when we needed to clean those hard-to-see areas, such as under furniture or in tight corners.
However, there are a few drawbacks to this vacuum.
The first is that the battery is not included, meaning you’ll need to purchase one separately.
Secondly, the HEPA filter requires regular cleaning, especially when dealing with fine dust and debris, to maintain its efficiency.
Lastly, some might find the vacuum a bit heavy, but in our opinion, the weight is justified by its strong performance.
- 46 CFM provides higher suction performance for more efficient clean-up
- 65 Air Watts with a 5.0Ah DCB205 battery pack (sold separately).
- 6 Accessory cleaning solutions
- Drawstring accessory bag keeps vacuum accessories in one place.
- Easy empty canister to minimize exposure to dust and debris.
Bissell 47R51
The Bissell 47R51 is a powerful and convenient handheld vacuum, perfect for tackling pet hair and messes in your home and car.
Pros
- Powerful suction for thorough cleaning
- Flexible rubber nozzle for upholstery, stairs, and car interiors
- Several attachments, including hose, crevice tool, and wide mouth tool
Cons
- Corded, which may limit mobility for some users
- Handle might be prone to cracking with frequent use
- Not cordless, which could be a drawback for some consumers
The Bissell 47R51 has impressed us with its powerful suction capabilities, making it an excellent choice for pet owners who struggle with pet hair on upholstery, in cars, and on staircases.
The flexible rubber nozzle is particularly useful for removing dirt and hair from various surfaces, and the additional attachments like the crevice tool and wide mouth tool make it easy to handle a variety of messes.
One potential downside is that this vacuum is corded, which could limit mobility for some users, especially in larger spaces where they may need to switch power outlets.
However, the 18-ft power cord does provide a decent range, and many users might find that the increased power from being corded outweighs any inconvenience.
Additionally, some users have reported that the handle may crack after frequent use, which could be a durability concern.
- Dirt cup capacity - 0.78 liters. A powerful and convenient way to clean your home and car
- Flexible rubber nozzle great for removing dirt and hair on upholstery, stairs, and in cars
- Specialty cleaning attachments—includes hose, crevice tool, and wide mouth tool
- Clean farther with the 18-ft. power cord
- Easy to empty bagless vacuum cleaner
Milwaukee M18 VC2
The Milwaukee M18 VC2 is a versatile and convenient option, perfect for anyone in need of an efficient car vacuum.
Pros
- 20% higher suction than competition
- Built-in blower port for added functionality
- HEPA rated filter for efficient dust collection
Cons
- Bulkier design compared to other models
- Battery not included with purchase
- Limited run time with smaller batteries
We were pleasantly surprised by the suction power of this Milwaukee vacuum, as it easily tackled both wet and dry messes in our car.
The built-in blower function proved quite useful, making it easy to clear away debris in tight areas before we commenced vacuuming.
One striking aspect of this car vacuum is its tool box design, which made portability a breeze.
The on-board hose and accessory storage ensured that everything was organized and within reach.
This vacuum also operates much quieter than other cordless wet/dry vacuums we’ve tried, which was a significant bonus.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider.
The vacuum’s bulkiness might be off-putting for some users, as it takes up more space than other car vacuum models.
Additionally, the vacuum comes as a bare tool, meaning you’ll need to purchase the battery separately.
We recommend using 8Ah batteries for optimal performance, as smaller batteries tend to limit the vacuum’s run time.
- Material: metal
- Designed for easy use and good Quality product
- m18 vc2-0 wet/dry vacuum
- English (Publication Language)
Buying Guide
Power and Suction
One of the key aspects to focus on is the power and suction capabilities of the vacuum. It’s crucial to choose a vacuum with enough suction to effectively remove dirt, dust, and debris from your car’s interior. Consider the vacuum’s power source, too. Cordless models offer flexibility and portability, but their battery life may limit performance. Meanwhile, corded options provide consistent power but may be less convenient to use.
Attachments and Accessories
To ensure thorough cleaning, the inclusion of attachments and accessories is essential. Look for a vacuum that comes with various attachments, such as crevice tools, brush attachments, and extension hoses. These accessories will allow you to reach tight spaces and clean different surfaces more efficiently.
Filtration
A suitable filtration system is critical in maintaining a clean and healthy environment inside your vehicle. Many car vacuums come with HEPA filters, which are capable of trapping very fine particles that may cause allergies or irritation. If you or your passengers suffer from allergies, opting for a vacuum with a HEPA filter would be highly beneficial.
Capacity and Maintenance
Take note of the vacuum’s dustbin capacity, as larger capacities mean less frequent emptying. It’s also essential to choose a vacuum that’s easy to clean. Some models offer a washable filter, which can save you time and money in the long run. A vacuum with easy-to-empty and clean dustbins will make maintenance much more manageable.
To help you select the best car vacuum, be sure to carefully consider the power and suction capabilities, attachments and accessories, filtration system, and capacity as well as maintenance requirements. By keeping these factors in mind, you can confidently purchase a car vacuum that meets your specific needs and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top car vacuums for power and performance?
We have researched and found that some of the top car detailing vacuums for power and performance are the Bissell Multi Auto Lithium-Ion Car Vacuum, Dyson V7 Car+Boat, and the Shark WANDVAC Handheld Vacuum. These vacuums excel in terms of power, battery life, and ease of use, ensuring that your car’s interior remains pristine.
Which corded car vacuums outperform the others?
Some corded car vacuums that outperform others in the market include the Hoover ONEPWR Corded Handheld Vacuum, Stanley Wet/Dry Hanging Vacuum, and the Armor All AA255 Utility Wet/Dry Vacuum. These vacuums offer strong suction and larger dirt capacities, making them suitable for extensive car cleaning tasks.
What do Consumer Reports recommend for car vacuums?
Consumer Reports recommends the following car vacuums based on their extensive testing and user reviews: Bissell Multi Auto Lithium-Ion Car Vacuum, Dyson V7 Car+Boat, and BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Handheld Vacuum. These models are known for their efficiency, versatility, and value for money.
How do popular brands like DEWALT and Black+Decker compare?
DEWALT and Black+Decker are both reputable brands in the car vacuum industry. DEWALT is known for its robust and powerful tools, making their car vacuums a top choice for heavy-duty cleaning needs. In contrast, Black+Decker focuses on providing affordable and user-friendly options that cater to everyday car cleaning requirements.
Are there any exceptional car vacuums specifically for detailing?
For car detailing enthusiasts, we would suggest considering the Metropolitan Vac ‘N Blo Compact Car Vacuum. This vacuum features a powerful motor, various attachments, and a long hose for intricate detailing work. Additionally, the Workshop WS0301VA Portable Wet/Dry Vacuum is another great option for those seeking a versatile tool for both wet and dry jobs.
How does a car vacuum’s effectiveness compare to regular vacuums?
Car vacuums are specifically designed for vehicle interiors, providing strong suction and specialized attachments to clean various surfaces such as upholstery, carpets, and hard-to-reach corners. In comparison, regular vacuums often have larger capacities and multiple functions but may not be as portable or equipped with the necessary features for thorough car cleaning.
How often should you vacuum out your car?
It’s a good idea to thoroughly vacuum your car’s interior at least every couple of months to keep it free of dirt, dust, and debris. Vacuuming more frequently may be needed if you have pets that shed or often eat in the car.
What type of vacuum is best for cleaning a car?
A portable, handheld, 12-volt vacuum specifically designed for automobile use is ideal. These vacuums are powerful, yet compact and lightweight enough to easily maneuver around the interior. They come with attachments to help reach tight spaces.
What areas should you focus on when vacuuming the car?
Pay close attention to the floor mats, upholstery, crevices between seats, door pockets, vents, and any other areas where dirt and crumbs tend to accumulate. Use attachments to vacuum under seats and mats thoroughly. Also vacuum the trunk/cargo area if needed.