10 Best Vacuum for Car Detailing – Guide and Reviews

A vacuum for car detailing is not something we would think we needed, right? But considering that most of us spend a lot of time in our cars, it’s only natural that they will get dirty from time to time. However, while the majority of people will take the time to vacuum and clean our houses, many of us will neglect our vehicles entirely. This means that dirt, grime, and other debris will sit in our cars for weeks, months, and even years. But why though? Perhaps it’s because we don’t have a simple and effective method for cleaning the interior of our vehicles? Well, that’s going to be a thing of the past.

Whether you are interested in keeping your own car as clean as possible, or you plan on offering your services to others, we are going to look at some of the best vacuum for car detailing. These machines are built to get into the tough spots where wrappers and old french fries hide. With a car vacuum, you have no excuse to leave your car a mess. So, with that in mind, let's see this selection and see what they can do for you.

Top 10 Best Vacuum For Car Detailing Reviews

WORKSHOP Wet Dry Vac WS0401VA Portable Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner For Car

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Kicking off our list is this wet/dry vacuum from Workshop. This particular unit is perfect vacuum for car detailing as it is built specifically for that purpose. That means that you get more than enough power and reliability to keep your vehicle clean all the time. In fact, it will be such a breeze that you might look for reasons to vacuum your car.

What we like most about this type of car detailer vac is that it has an incredible cleaning hose. It’s ten feet long, giving you more freedom to move around, and it is built stronger than most others. It won’t crimp or bend while you work, meaning that you won’t lose suction. Also, the attachments that come with it are spectacular. Finally, because it is a wet/dry vacuum, you can clean up any spills or messes with ease. It also comes with a remarkable five-year warranty on parts and labor.

This Is What You Said...

I have kids so what that means is that I usually have a dirty vehicle filled with sand from the park, left over food, you name it, it's in my car. I usually take my car to the car wash to get it cleaned and then every once in a while I take it to get a professional car vacuum detailing done on it, if I can't do it myself. This little vac has saved me quite a bit of money so far. While it doesn't leave my vehicle looking like it just got detailed it comes really close.

PROS

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    Wet/dry vacuum
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    Powerful five horsepower motor
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    Three head attachments
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    versatile ten-foot locking hose
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    maintains strong airflow
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    Removable filtration system
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    Automatic shutoff

CONS

  • No wheels for easier transportation
  • Instructions can be hard to follow
Metrovac Vac N' Blo 4.0 Peak HP Automotive Car Detailing Vacuum

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Although the wet/dry vacuum above had quite a bit to offer, this next unit from Metrovac is a step above regarding versatility and quality. Simply put, if you are kind of anal about cleaning every inch of your car, then this is the vacuum to get. Not only does it come with the standard car detailing vacuum attachments for getting underneath seats and such, but it has a micro-detailing set that will get into your air vents and any other tiny spots that need cleaning.

The other cool thing about this unit is that it acts as a blower as well. This makes it ideal for dusting, as well as inflation. This way, if you want to top off your tires, you can do so quickly and efficiently with this machine. Overall, when it comes to detail work, you can do more with this detailing vacuum than with most others.

This Is What You Said...

This Detailing Vacuum is great Top class, well made and easily cleans my car with ease. The wheels are what sets this Metrovac apart great for maneuvering around and easy carry handle. The tool accessories are great something for every nook and cranny. unusual to see so many tools in one set in a car detailer vacuum cleaner.

PROS

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    Powerful four-horsepower motor
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    Durable all steel body
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    Easy carry handle
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    Eleven attachments included
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    Long six-foot hose
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    Carrying strap included 
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    Blow option available for inflation

CONS

  • Smaller components can get lost easily if you’re not careful
  • Wheels are not that great
VacuMaid GV50 Wall Mounted Garage and Car Vacuum with 50 ft hose and Tools

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As we mentioned above, if you are serious about car detailing and you want a vacuum that will allow you to service multiple cars in rapid succession, then you want a wall mounted unit with a powerful motor and extra large capacity. In this case, the VacuMaid GV50 comes with a state of the art motor and a massive seven-gallon tank. While this isn’t built for high volume garages, it can provide quite a bit of cleaning power for you.

What we like most about this car detailing vacuum are the hose and the attachments. You get fifty feet of room to work all around the car, and the hose won’t crimp or bend while you operate. It comes with five different vacuum Attachments that make it easier to get into the cracks and crevices of your car or truck, and it even has a wall caddy so that you can hang up the hose when you’re done. Finally, this unit has a five-year warranty, making it a prime addition to any car detailing garage..

This Is What You Said...

By far the best purchase for a garage vacuum. Hangs on the wall and is out of the way. I have an oversize three car garage and the 50 foot hose can reach to any point. The auto detailing vacuum has plenty of power and comes with great car detailing vacuum attachments to vac any space in your car. Now that I laid vinyl mat on my garage floor, the long handle and floor attachment makes it like vacuuming your house.

PROS

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    Powerful Ametek Lamb Motor
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    Extra large 7-gallon capacity
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    Versatile 50-foot cleaning hose
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    HEPA filtration included
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    Five attachments included
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    Wall mounted caddy for the hose
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    Rated to 500 hours of motor life

CONS

  • Not designed for wet cleaning
  • can be  quite loud compared 
Crucial Swirl Powerful Handheld Portable Vacuum Cleaner

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Next, we have a portable vacuum that is designed to get deep into the small spaces of your car with ease. This vacuum is handy for spot cleaning the tough sections of your vehicle and is portable enough to work almost anywhere.

At just 4.5 pounds, you can take it with you and clean any hard to reach spaces in your home, office, garage or car. What we like most about this vacuum are the attachments. First, you get seven large accessories, including a wide angle brush that resembles a standard vacuum cleaner.

These will enable you to get almost anywhere quickly. On top of this, however, it also comes with a micro detailing brush, with components that can easily reach into air vents, cup holders, and even your computer’s keyboard. Overall, if you want to get detailed, then this is a great supplemental vacuum.

This Is What You Said...

This is a handy compact vacuum that I use inside my home to clean high hard to reach places such as ceiling fan blades. The blower function is helpful outside on the patio to remove leaves, I no longer need to sweep or hose off the patio. It comes with many attachments. Great for cleaning our computer. Also used as a car detailer vac too. The motor is incredibly powerful for a detailing vacuum cleaner. The price is a bit expensive but worth it. Now I can't imagine not having this portable vacuum cleaner in my home.

PROS

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    Portable canister style vacuum
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    Weighs less than five pounds
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    Easy carry strap and handle
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    7 attachments & mini detailing kit
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    Powerful 700-watt motor
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    25-foot power cord for flexibility

CONS

  • Small bag fills up relatively fast
  • Some tools are not that durable
LOLLDEAL Car Vacuum, 12V 3200PA Suction Portable Car Vac

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Our final auto detailing vacuum is something that you will want to keep in your car for spot cleaning. Unlike the others, this model plugs into your vehicle’s 12-volt adapter, meaning that it runs on the car battery. This also means that you have to keep the vehicle running, lest you drain it all the way.

Overall, we like the precision of this auto detail vacuum, but it is limited in its scope. It’s perfect for spot cleaning messes that happen, and it will ensure that you have a clean interior all the time. If you are anal about the cleanliness of your car, you will probably want something like this on hand. Best of all, it has its own carrying case so that you can toss it into the trunk with all of its accessories.

This Is What You Said...

I have been after for an auto detailing vacuum for my car since the previous one was broken. So glad I found this handheld vac, The size of the vacuum is easy to hold while cleaning and the suction power is amazing for something so small, and it can clean almost every corner of my car. For a detailing vacuum, I can highly recommend. The carrier bag that comes with the vacuum is really helpful and makes storage simple and easy. 

PROS

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    Runs on 12-volt car adapter
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    Four accessories included
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    Convenient carry case provided
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    Super compact and lightweight
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    One-touch operation
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    Weighs only 2.6 pounds
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    HEPA filter included

CONS

  • Limited suction and dirt capacity
  • Filter can be hard to wash
Vapamore MR-500 Vento Canister Vacuum

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This next model is a Vapamore MR-500 a powerful canister vacuum which can be used in the home and for car detailing. With a host of car detailing vacuum attachments including small crevice tool and detail brush enabling this vacuum to make easy work of any car cleaning job. For home use, it has an electric floor head with LED light. 

This Is What You Said...

The HEPA filter helps to maintain 99.97% allergy free air, ideal against mites, pollens, and allergens. The MR-500 motor power is 1400 watts with adjustable suction control making operating between floor surfaces simple. This model comes with a lifetime warranty. Also and can be used on multi-surfaces like hardwood, tile, and carpets. Due to great range of attachments that come with this Vapamore vacuum it would be perfect fit as a detailer for car cleaning, due to the quality of the build of the unit and being only 22" high making it a powerful but compact vacuum cleaner.

We were on the lookout for something new with a good HEPA filter. Our newborn was sneezing a lot, and we have a couple of p, and it didn't feel as if our old vacuum was doing the job. This Vapamore MR-500 is a handy vacuum. We've never used a canister vacuum and were very dubious. A buddy got one and enthused about it so we decided we would try it out. When you open the box, it becomes clear that it is well made. The tools attachments are very beneficial, and the bag changing is quick and easy. Mostly, you can instantly feel the disparity in cleanliness. Also used it as a car detailer cleaner as suggested and with the attachments does a great job.

PROS

  • power suction motor
  • lots of great attachments
  • extra large floor head
  • HEPA allergen filter
  • led lights

CONS

  • Motor Head is clunky to maneuver
Shark Rocket Corded Ultra-Light Hand Vacuum for Carpet

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The Shark Rocket is an extremely lightweight vacuum and weight less than 4lbs making it super easy and flexible to use around the home, garage, or car. If you have pets and take them out in the car, then you will know how difficult it can be to remove the stubborn pet hair from the car's interior. This Rocket vacuum has a motorized brush designed for deep cleaning upholstery in the home or as a car detailing vacuum.

And being a handheld vacuum this allows you to move around with ease and with a host of accessories tools there will be no areas you won't be able to get into to clean. The Shark Rocket is a corded model so you won't have to worry about running out of power or batteries. The power cord is 15 feet, so the cleaning range is enough not to have to be replugging very often.

So if you have a power supply close by this Shark Rocket will make light work as a car detailing vacuum and can be handy to have around in the home and can be used in the kitchen and for cleaning sofas and drapes. The dust bin is simple and easy to empty, and the filter is washable.

This Is What You Said...

Love this car detailing vacuum from shark. I purchased this for my vehicle. I have a pooch that enjoys going on car journeys but she sheds a lot of pet hair all over the car. I avoided pulling out my stand up vacuum. The point I love the most of this small detailing vacuum is that it has a motorized brush, which any pet owner knows is required to pluck up hair from a carpet. Cleaning the unit is easy just open the chamber over a waste bin and it's done. I highly recommend this vacuum.

PROS

  • easy to change attachments
  • rotating brush get deep clean
  • easy to empty
  • cord length is long to do  stairs

CONS

  • no storage/carrying caddy
  • cord does not retract

8. Vacmaster Professional Car Detailing Vacuum

Vacmaster Professional car detailing vacuum

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A professional wet/dry vacuum with a multi purpose task list. It can be used for a variety of clean up jobs, but it's wet/dry option giving you option for use in auto car detailing. Let's look at the features of this vacmaster Beast. The tank is a robust polypropylene construction and holds 5 gallons, which can convert to a blower if you require. 

This a portable unit and has onboard storage of the accessories tool which includes crevice, car nozzle and extension wand. The option to clean up spills and messes in the home or car is a great feature to this vacuum. The filters are a dust bags type and can be replaced. The cord length is 18 inches, and this model does not have wheels so this is a consideration for car detailers as you would have to move it around manually, however Great vacuum very powerful. 

This Is What You Said...

Powerful Car Detailing Vacuum. And surprisingly quiet. Not precisely whisper quiet, but I was surprised by the low decibel level. Light overall weight, convenient handle, decent length hose, and a really long power cable makes a good combo to get around the shop or take into the driveway for auto detailing. One drawback - no brush attachment, but I repurposed one from an older decommissioned vac (dif. brand), and it works fine.

PROS

  • does have great suction.
  • easy to convert from dry to wet.
  • has reasonably long hoses
  • It looks good

CONS

  • doesn't have wheels
  • not sure it holds 5 gallons

9. Armor All 2.5 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum

Armor All 2.5 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum

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A very popular model is the Armor wet/dry vacuum by Armorall. A small vacuum which holds 2.5 gallons and has a powerful two horsepower motor. Its small compact size is ideal for cleaning work on the car. With a lightweight design, it enables it to be carrying around for quick detailing and cleanup jobs. 

With all the onboard tool accessories being held on the base of the vacuum, makes this great for accessing and storage of these tools. The power cord is 10 ft, and the hose length is 6-foot making maneuverability and reach inside and around the car a simple and easy one.

The filter is cloth and reusable, and the foam sleeve for wet running is also reusable. The accessories tools comprise of a crevice, blower nozzle, and unique detailing brush So overall a great little vacuum which is a quiet and effective great choice for car detailing or general clean ups.

This Is What You Said...

Excellent! I purchased this Armor All 2.5 Gallon for vacuum detailing my car which is full of pet hair. The dogs go in the car every day too and from work with me. Therefore there is a lot of dirt and pet hair everywhere (even though I use seat covers). Using all the accessories/tools and a generous measure of elbow grease, I was able to remove about 95% of the pet hair from the fabric car seats. I could still clean some more to keep removing, but my arm got sore from cleaning. The small accessory brush for the car radio and console area works great without scratching anything. I'm pleased with this acquisition and would suggest! I have not used it for wet suction yet, but I would trust it won't let me down.

PROS

  • Lightweight
  • Very easy to assemble
  • Wet vac capability
  • Inexpensive

CONS

  • Cheaply made
  • Wet vac has very low suction
HOTOR Car Vacuum Cleaner

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This is a fast and easy Vacuum for Car Detailing that is powered by 12v car outlet. A handy vac from HOTOR which very lightweight ideal for cleaning car interiors and a great addition to help clear any messes in the vehicle. The cord is over 16ft long which allows plenty of movement, and with a LED light this enables you to see in all the dark places as you clean. The HEPA filter is stainless steel and can be washed to keep clean.

The suction on this vacuum for car detailing is excellent and picking up fine dust, such as sand, crumbs, and small stones are not difficult for this little vacuum. The manufacturer suggests having the engine running will increase the suction power of the vacuum when using it; however, it will do a pretty good job without it running. The unit comes supplied with its own bag for storing the vacuum and the tool accessories. Very well priced and an excellent option for a car detailing vacuum.

This Is What You Said...

I like the long cord. I use it in my truck, and the light is helpful for the areas not so well lit. For a 12 volt device, it has a sufficient amount of power to pick everything up and get rid of the dirt on things. If hair is stuck on the floor mats, the brush tool, on the end of what you are using, frees it up, and it sucks it up. I have not tried it on any fluids yet, but it seems to have enough power for that. I would probably use paper toweling first for areas I could reach. Once you become familiar with it, and how it comes apart, It was easy to clean, and put back together. I thought the amount of noise it produces was pretty standard, not real loud, and it does not sound like it is working too hard. I like it and would recommend it.

PROS

  • great for seeing in dark corners.
  • Picks up small rocks, dirt, grass, crumbs
  • brush tool especially helps to loosen the dirt
  • storage bag everything fits.

CONS

  • not strong suction
  • ok for small messes

How to Choose a Vacuum for Car Detailing

Attachments

When it comes to getting your vehicle as clean as possible, you have to make sure that you can get into all of the tiny cracks and crevices that are in your car. In between the seats, under the seats, and all along the dashboard are surfaces that are magnets for dust and dirt. While attachments are essential for any kind of vacuum, they are critical in this case. You want the car detailing vacuum attachments that will make your job a lot easier and will enable you to get your car much cleaner than you thought possible. Overall, the more variety you get, the more versatile your vacuum will be for you to use.

Types

Since these kind of car detailer vacuums are made for being portable and cleaning a variety of surfaces, you need something that won’t drag you down or make things difficult. Overall there are a few different types and you want the best detailing vacuum that you can use to the get the job done, so choose wisely.

Wet/Dry

These kinds of car detailing vacuum cleaners are perfect for the garage and cleaning your car because they are much more versatile than standard vacuums. Whether you’re cleaning up a spill or some leftover food, you can handle it all with this kind of device. We strongly recommend it if you want something that can clean up any mess, anytime.

Canister

Overall, most of the vacuums that you see that are designed for car detailing will be like this. They will have a canister for holding the dirt and debris, and a hose so that you can get into every nook and cranny easily. The only important distinction you should make is how large the capacity of the detailer vacuum is, as well as what kind of accessories come with it.

Handheld

If you really want to get into the small spaces of your car, it may help to have a portable handheld vacuum that can reach into every spot with ease. The best detail vacuum are ideal for smaller detailing areas, such as cup holders, glove compartment, and other places. The only thing is that they are not quite as powerful, so you should only get one to supplement your standard vacuum.

Wall Unit

If you are going to be a professional car detailer then you need something that can handle multiple vehicles without any problems. A large wall mounted auto detailing vacuum will enable you to clean various cars without loss of suction, and you won’t have to worry about cleaning out the tank after each pass. Overall, this type is only meant for professional car vacuum cleaners, not for the occasional cleaning. 

Warranty

Checking the type of warranty that comes with the vacuum is an essential factor to consider. Most will have a small return time scale of around 30 days, However with parts like motors and the guarantee can be longer, It can be a costly job if you have an issue with the vacuum after the initial return policy. Under normal circumstances, more item will arrive damaged or not working or will fail after a short time. Have extra cover on electrics, and motor can save you money in the long term

Car Detailing How to Properly Vacuum Your Car

The inside of our cars can get messy rather fast. Apart from looking hideous, dirt, dust, and even mildew can grow without using a proper car detailer vacuum. Here is the exact method for a quick, yet through clean of the car interior using auto detailing vacuums.

Conclusion

When it comes to the best vacuum for car detailing, we have to say that our top pick has to be either the Wet/Dry Vac from Workshop or the Vac N’ Blo from Metrovac. Both of these have the power and reliability that you need, as well as the attachments that will make cleaning and detailing a breeze. The type you choose will be very much dependent on what you want it to do. So once you know what your requirements are then this will make your buying decision a simpler one. 

Here are some resources you might find helpful along the way:

Auto detailing vacuum kit

Car detailing vacuum attachments


About the Author David Perez

I have a passion for clean floors and living areas, so it is no surprise that I know a lot about vacuum cleaners and how to clean different surfaces. Sharing this knowledge gives me a lot of pleasure which is why I started this blog and I hope everyone who needs help will find the help they are looking for here.

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