Wet/Dry Vacuums & Filters

When messes are too much for a standard vacuum cleaner, bring out the wet/dry vac to get the job done. It picks up anything from wood chips and nails to liquids and microscopic dust particles. Shop-Vac and Koblenz brand vacuums are ideal for garages and workshops, as well as for cleaning up during renovations. Clean up messes of any size, wet or dry, with the carpet cleaning equipment and cleaning supplies available at Staples.

Wet/dry vacs for homes and businesses
These vacuums have several uses around the home. Typically found in garages and workshops, small units are also good for cleaning vehicles, stairs, and other small spaces in the home. Larger units used by contractors for home renovations clean up messes like drywall pieces, screws, and small pieces of wood. Clean up water from a broken or leaky pipe or an overflowing toilet, or unclog a drain with its powerful suction.

Choose the right wet and dry vacuum
For use around the home, consider a lightweight model with a 2.5-gallon capacity. Opt for one with accessories like a crevice tool, extender wand, and upholstery tool. Contractors usually want a larger capacity tank so there’s no need for frequent emptying during jobs. Look for models with longer hoses and power cords for use in large spaces so there’s no getting tangled up in extension cords on the floor. A model with a HEPA filter is best for frequent cleaning of microscopic dust. Some larger capacity vacuums have a tank drain for ease of emptying the tank.

Multipurpose vacuums
These vacuums do more than clean up water, dirt, and construction debris. Place the hose in a clogged drain to remove small clogs. Use select units as a blower with their reversible airflow feature. The blower option is handy for cleaning leaves from the yard and dirt from the sidewalk and driveway.

Do wet and dry vacuums include accessories?
Most models come equipped with a hose. Some units come with a few additional accessories such as a crevice tool, extender wands, and an upholstery tool. Select models with reversible airflow come with an inflator nozzle. Keep accessories together with a unit that has an onboard storage basket so accessories are within reach while cleaning.

What type of filters do the vacuums use?
Some units require high-efficiency filter collection bags for cleaning dry dirt, dust, and debris. Replace the collection bags when full. Use foam sleeves with disc or cartridge filters when cleaning liquids. There are industrial strength cartridges available that are suitable for both wet and dry messes. Some cartridges are reusable and contain a chemical that reduces the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria, therefore increasing the lifespan of the filter. Reusable HEPA filter cartridges keep over 90 percent of dust, dander, and other allergens from recirculating back into the air.

Are wet/dry vacuums portable?
Yes, some models are light enough to carry. Other larger models are on casters that make moving throughout the work area simple. When working in large spaces, make sure the power cord on the unit is long enough to reach without using an extension cord.