best car vacuum cleaners review in 2018

Top 10 Best Car Vacuums – Reviews & Rankings

​Introduction

Keeping the interior and upholstery of your vehicle clean does not have to be hard. Thanks to the best car vacuum, you don’t need to seek professional cleaning services every time your child has a cookie in the back seat.

The best car vacuum cleaners are handy, highly portable and very efficient. They are easy to use and do not take up much space. With a comprehensive array of features, these car vacuum cleaners will save you money and time while keeping the inside of your car looking pristine and free of dirt and dust.

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Even though finding the right one for your car can be difficult, in this vacuum cleaner review, we will cover the features that you should look out for to make the buying process easier.

Product Power Source Main Feature Price Rating Prices

Dirt Devil Extreme Power Bagless Handheld Vacuum

Battery Compact design, cordless design $$

ArmorAll Wet/Dry 12V Vacuum Cleaner

Car Powered Wet and dry function. Built-in crevice tool $

Stanley Black & Decker FHV1200W Cordless Mini Canister Vacuum

Battery 3-stage filtration system, 2-year warranty $$

Metro Vacuum VM6BS500 Professional 120V Hand Vacuum

Wall Plugin Steel construction, 500-watt powers $$$

Black & Decker PAV1200W Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

Car Powered Cyclonic action, pivoting nozzle $$

Eureka EasyClean Corded Hand-Held Vacuum

Wall Plugin 23-foot reach system, strong suction with stretch hose $

Bissell 1985 Multi Cordless Hand Vacuum – Professional Vacuum Cleaner

Battery Motorized brush tool, High performance $$$

Dirt Devil Scorpion Quick Flip Corded Bagless Handheld Vacuum – Best Budget Choice

Wall Plugin Lightweight, powerful motor $

BLACK + DECKER CHV1410L 16-volt Lithium Cordless Dust Buster – Runner Up

Battery Smart charge technology, battery holds charge for up to 18 hours $$

Black+Decker BDH2000PL MAX Lithium Pivot Vacuum – Best Car Vacuum Cleaner

Battery Lithium technology, Pivoting Nozzle $$

Price Guide: Below $50-$ / Between $100-$50 – $$ / Over $100 – $$$

Best Car Vacuum Cleaners on the market

Dirt Devil Extreme Power Bagless Handheld Vacuum

Dirt Devil

Cordless handhold vacuum cleaners like the Dirt Devil are the best for obvious reasons, when it comes cleaning your car. They offer all the flexibility you need and allow you to pull out the little gadget every time you have dirt that you would like to collect without the hustle of having to plug it in. They also happen to have a smaller stature, and this particular one fits squarely into that bill.

The Dirt Devil Bagless car vacuum cleaner has lots to offer, with its small size storage space will never have to be a problem with the device. This allows for easier cleaning and also allows you to tag it along wherever you go without any concerns or worries. Other than the size, its features are also impressive and handy to any car owner that likes keeping everything clean and neat.

Main Features

Easy to use – owing to the fact that the product is cordless and highly portable, it is very easy to use even under the passenger seat. It is highly maneuverable and thanks to its size, keeping your clean is much easier. To make the process even easier, it also has attachments that come with the purchase. These include the quick flip crevice tool and a retractable brush strip.

Powerful suction – the vacuum is powered by a highly 4V rechargeable battery and provides 15.6V powerful suction which is very commendable. It can quickly scoop up any dirt lying around in the car.

Awards – it is one of the few car vacuum cleaners on this review that have won an award for their innovativeness. It is a winner of the Good Housekeeping Good Buy Award and comes with a three-year warranty on the motor and parts just to prove that it is the right investment for you without the shadow of a doubt.

Things We Like

  • has a quick flip crevice tool
  • Light weight and compact
  • Has a very powerful motor
  • Long cord

Things we don’t like

  • It is bagless. It requires constant emptying, but saves you some money in the long run as you don’t have to buy bags.
  • The build looks a bit flimsy

Verdict

One of the features that you will find most pleasant on this car vacuum is the powerful suction that it has to offer and the easy to empty design. It is pretty easy to use and saves you plenty of time so you can swoop in and out quickly. It’s rated 3.5 out of 5 because of somewhat fragile looking exterior casing. Other than that, it is a decent car vacuum cleaner for the money.

ArmorAll Wet/Dry 12V Vacuum Cleaner

Armor Car Vacuum

Unlike the other best car vacuum cleaners that are featured in these reviews, this is the only one that will not only pick up any droppings but can as well help you clean up spills. It is a particularly ideal for those that have their children in the car most of the time. Spills are bound to happen at just about any time, and these will ensure that you have the best possible maintenance of the car’s carpet and upholstery.

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Handy, and corded, this little gadget is plugged into the car’s cigarette lighter to ensure that you have unlimited power to clean as thoroughly as you would please. Other than the excellent power option and the size of the little gadget, it also happens to have a very lucrative set of features that are tailor-made for car use.

Main Features

Portable – this is among the most portable car vacuum cleaners that you can find on the market. It can fit between the driver’s chair where it is easily reachable and does not take up space that you could be used to store anything else.

Long power cord – considering that it is not a cordless cleaner, one could argue that it limits mobility when cleaning. However, the 15-foot power cord more than makes up for that.

Easy to use – there are many reasons why the device is easy to use. First, it is fueled by the cigarette lighter port. All you need to do is to plug it in. Its size also makes it simple to use, and it also comes with a built-in crevice tool to help you get into those tight spots.

Wet and dry use – not only can you be able to clean up dirt and dust, you can also be able to clean up liquid spills. Which is why this is considered one of the best car vacuum cleaners.

Things We Like

  • Works for both wet and dry situations
  • The power cord is long enough
  • Comes with a Universal AC-DC power socket adapter

Things we don’t like

  • Bagless design
  • The built feels and looks fragile

Verdict

Rarely will you make a purchase that you will be eternally happy with. This is one of those rare cases. It is a durable product that you will be able to use for ages and the length of the cord allows you to reach almost any part of the car for easier and faster cleaning.

Stanley Black & Decker FHV1200W Cordless Mini Canister Vacuum

Stanley black & Decker car vacuum cleaner

It is always nice to invest in the best car vacuum with superior suction. Even if that might mean you sacrifice some space for a cleaner car. This car vac is best suited for such an application with improved suction and a compact design.

The Stanley Black & Decker FHV1200W offers a broad range of features with the apex of its performance being the superior suction. It might not be very portable like the handheld options, but you get better performance with the larger device.

Main Features

Multiple filtration systems – to ensure that all the dirt is captured, the vacuum cleaner comes with a three-stage filtration system for clean air exhaust to ensure nothing comes back out.

Easy to use – the dirt canister is easy to empty and clean up. Also, the filter that comes with the best car vacuum is dishwasher safe. The 4-foot flexible hose makes it easy for you to get around the car and the different trouble spots and there is also a crevice tool, nozzle brush, and even a pet hair cleaning tool, so no pet fur is left behind.

Energy efficient – the device is Energy Star approved. It is efficient in power consumption.

Compact – while the car vac might not be as compact as the handheld options, it has a storage caddy that keeps everything neat and easy to find.

Things We Like

  • Unique design and make
  • 3-stage filtration system
  • Dishwasher safe filters
  • Energy star approved

Things we don’t like

  • Slightly big
  • Attachments are not easy to use under the seat

Verdict

The suction power that the vacuum cleaner offered, the small nature of the vacuum cleaner and its easy-to-use nature are the winners in this case. It is an added advantage that it comes with a pet attachment which is a thoughtful addition. However, it is not the best for use in a small car because of its bulky size. Also, the accessories are not easy to use under the seats.

Metro Vacuum VM6BS500 Professional 120V Hand Vacuum

Metro car vacuum

Being able to take your car vacuum cleaner wherever you go without having to worry about it being damaged can be a great feeling. Built for longevity this is a great car vacuum for the busy person with a lot of luggage in the trunk. This is one of the best car vacuum not only because of the functionality but also because of how resilient it is.

With steel construction, the main selling point of the Metro Vacuum is how strong, sturdy and durable it is. The vacuum cleaner also comes with a variety of attachments which makes it ideal for car cleaner and also makes the cleaning process much easier.

Main features

Durable construction – the casing of the vacuum cleaner is built from steel. This makes it perfect for on-the-go use since the steel housing provides safe housing for the delicate mechanics. You don’t have to be concerned about leaving the vacuum behind every time you have things you would like to stash in the trunk.

Sturdy and lightweight – with up to 500 watts of power, the hand vacuum cleaner has all the suction power that you will need to keep your car and upholstery clean. Weighing only 2.7pounds, its weight does not much its power making it more portable and usable.

Attachments – the vacuum cleaner comes with a couple of accessories that make the cleaning process much easier. These include an upholstery tool, a crevice tool, power unit, flexible hose and an upholstery nozzle.

Things We Like

  • Very strong steel construction
  • Lightweight design
  • Very powerful
  • Comes with a five-year warranty on the motor

Things we don’t like

  • It is not compact or portable
  • Can be hard to use in tight spaces

Verdict

The power of this vacuum cleaner is its most commendable aspect. It saves you from having to hoover over the same place over and over. You save time, energy and a lot of frustration in the process.

Black & Decker PAV1200W Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

Black & decker PAV1200

If you don’t mind the cord, this is one of the best car vacuum you can get in the market. It has a great design with pristine finishing making it not only a top performer but also very aesthetically appealing. Also notable is the pivoting nozzle that makes the tool more compact.

A handhold car vacuum cleaner does not have to be all about function. Looking good can be an added advantage. After all, it if it is going to be in the car, you want to look good just in case any of your passengers get a glimpse of it. Luckily, this particular one offers a great blend of both worlds. Top performance and killer looks.

Main Features

Compact – while the automotive cleaner has a compact design, it is made even more compact with the addition of a pivoting nozzle. This also makes it easier for the handheld cleaner to get into the tiny and hard to reach spaces.

Easy to use – with a fingertip on/off control, a 16foot power cord and a 1-step emptying system, the car vacuum is built for ease of use. It also includes added accessories like the crevice tool which are kept in a compartment located below the power cord.

Optimum suction power at all time – the cyclonic action helps to the keep dirt, dust and debris away from the filter to ensure that you have maximum suction power at all times for better cleaning.

Things We Like

  • Neat design
  • Pivoting nozzle
  • Finger tips control for easier use
  • Cyclonic action keeps the filter debris free

Things we don’t like

  • Not chargeable

Verdict

If you have tried to clean under your car seat without ripping it off, then you understand why being able to reach hard areas in the car is a great plus if you buy this cleaner. The suction power is also excellent.

Eureka EasyClean Corded Hand-Held Vacuum

Eureka EasyClean

The Eureka EasyClean is a small, highly portable and very functional car vacuum cleaner that is constantly considered as one of the best when it comes to car care. It offers a great collection of features and benefits and offers plenty of benefits. It is a cordless product. That makes it even simpler to use when cleaning.

One of the features that make this one of the best car vacuum cleaners in the market is its innovative design. It has been built to fit into the tight spaces and under the car seats to provide better cleaning action. The product is highly reliable with an extension of other features that are added to make the duty of keeping your car clean easier and more effective.

Main Features

Long power cord – the vacuum cleaner is fitted with a 20-foot cord that makes it easier for you to get around the car with ease. You don’t have to keep changing the power source for you to be able to reach all the areas of the car.

Better energy consumption – The vacuum cleaner only uses about 5.5Amps of power but puts out enough energy for your car cleaning needs.

Ease of use – The suction hose it stretchable allowing to cover more areas and it also has powerful suction and an on-board crevice tool to make sure that you don’t miss a single spot. To make it more effective, it also has an on/off brush roll switch.

Things We Like

  • Able to clean stairs as well
  • 20-foot long cord for easier cleaning
  • Stretch hose with strong suction
  • On board crevice tool

Things we don’t like

  • It is chunky
  • Can be a little tricky to use effectively at first

Verdict

A very compact hand vacuum cleaner that is easy to move around and can be easily used in the car. You can even use it on the stair cases in your home if you please. Even though the suction power is not mind blowing, it is strong enough for the task at hand. Even though it is a little bit chunky, there are some pretty impressive features here.

Bissell 1985 Multi Cordless Hand Vacuum – Professional Vacuum Cleaner 

bissell vacuum

With an intuitive design, there is a lot to like about the Bissell 1985 Multi-Cordless Hand Vacuum with plenty of features that make cleaning and using the vacuum cleaner much easier. It also helps that the tool has a nice contrast of colors.

Portability, innovative design and a rich collection of features are what makes this the best car vacuum. You will love the wide variety of features and the cordless design that makes moving around the car much easier.

Main Features

Cordless cleaning – the vacuum cleaner is equipped with cordless technology to make cleaning more versatile and the harder to reach spots.

Specialized tools – to make cleaning much easier and more comprehensive, the cleaner, comes with several added tools that include a built-in extension hose that is easily accessible when needed. It also has an extension wand, onboard crevice tool and a dusting brush.

Lightweight – in addition to the ergonomic design, this car vacuum cleaner also has soft grips for better cleaning and comfort.

Better cleaning – the motorized brush makes picking pet hairs much easier be it from the carpet or the upholstery.

Things We Like

  • Innovative and very creative design
  • Motorized brush makes it easy to get rid of pet hairs
  • Has a strong build with comfortable handle
  • Cordless

Things we don’t like

  • Suction power could be better
  • Charge only lasts for about 14 minutes

Verdict

The most impressive part here is the battery capacity. Given that this is battery powered, the suction power is also very commendable and the added attachments are very handy. The low suction power dents the credibility of this vacuum cleaner heavily.

Dirt Devil Scorpion Quick Flip Corded Bagless Handheld Vacuum – Best Budget Choice

dirt devil car vacuum

If you have a knack for shiny things, want a nice-looking vacuum cleaner in your car that is also functional, and up to the task, then this one is going to be a great fit for you. It has plenty to offer than the very attractive look and appeal.

The Dirt Devil is as pleasing to the eye as it is a workhorse. It is a neatly designed vacuum cleaner meant for cars that happen to have a very alluring finish to it. Car owners that are strict on looks will find this to be a good addition to their car care tools.

Main Features

Portable and lightweight – the hand-held vacuum cleaner not only has a compact design, but it is also very lightweight weighing less than 4 pounds which is very commendable and makes operating the device much easier and more likable.

Long power cord – adding to the ease of use is the long power cord which is 16feet long. It easily allows you to clean the passenger seat, the back seat, and even the trunk without disconnecting the vacuum cleaner from its power source.

Powerful suction – the vacuum cleaner is powered by a 7amp motor. This provides all the suction power you need and ensures every little piece of dirt is sucked in.

Bagless design – this particular model does not come with a bag. That means you need less storage space. It also comes with an integrated flip crevice tool that helps to clean small area that might be hard to get into

Things We Like

  • Highly portable and very compact
  • Chargeable
  • Perfect for small spaces
  • Has a retractable brush strip

Things we don’t like

  • The suction power is on the lower side
  • Fragile exterior

Verdict

The suction power if this little devil is amazing. It makes cleaning faster and easier. It also helps that it is very lightweight so you move around pretty fast. It is a great car vacuum cleaner to have for your car.

BLACK + DECKER CHV1410L 16-volt Lithium Cordless Dust Buster – Runner Up

Black and decker CHV

Thanks to the cordless and long charge life, you don’t have to keep untangling the cord every time you want to get some cleaning done. With this compact and highly functional hand cleaner, keep your car tidy and fresh will be much easier.

When looking for the best car vacuum that is cordless and keeps charge for long periods of hours, you will love what the Black+Decker CHV1410L 16Volt Dustbuster should be your pick. With a highly compact and see through design, the handy gadget is not only efficient but also very fun to use. Cleaning is possible in a matter of minutes without much fuss.

Main Features

Cordless hand car vacuum cleaner – It features a lithium-ion extended life battery that is capable of holding a charge for up to 18 months. It also has an onboard extension just in case you forgot to charge it.

Rotating slim nozzle – getting in between the car seats doesn’t have to be hard anymore. Get every piece of debris with ease with the rotating slim nozzle. The Nozzle has a variety of applications.

Removable and washable filter – The filters and dirt catching bowl that comes with the car vacuum cleaner is removable and washable. You get better and thorough cleaning every time with easy cleaning of filters every time.

Smart charge technology – with the smart charge technology, the device can use up to 50% less energy. That means you get double the time on one single charge.

Warranty – to assure you you’re making the right investment in buying the best car vacuum Cleaners, you get a two-year warranty if you purchase the Black + Decker CHV1410L 16 Volt.

Things We Like

  • Highly portable
  • Long life battery
  • Cyclonic action to keep the filter clean at all times
  • Rotating nozzle
  • Has a 2-year warranty

Things we don’t like

  • No extension for reaching under car seats

Verdict

The charging base is the most stand out option with this cleaner. Also, the fact that the battery has a long life with no memory loss also stands out. It is perfect for the occasional user. Because of the warranty and its difficulty to reach under car seats, a 4.5 rating out of 5 for this car vacuum cleaner.

Black+Decker BDH2000PL MAX Lithium Pivot Vacuum – Best Car Vacuum Cleaner

Black & Decker BDH best car vacuum cleaner review

With an innovative design and features, a strong build and even a stronger suction power, this is the best car vacuum that has been built for clean freaks that want to extend the hygiene into their car. Its portable, cordless design makes it possible for you to bring it with you everywhere you go.

The Black+Decker BDH2000PL car vacuum is feature packed to ensure that you not only have all the suction power that you need but, that it also can get into the tight spaces in your car to leave every nook and cranny looking spotless and very clean.

Main Features

The features that this car vacuum has to offer are what make it one of the best in the market.

Strong suction power – the car vacuum has integrated lithium technology into its mechanism to offer stronger suction. This technology also keeps the seats and other upholstery from fading.

High performance – the high quality and performance motor ensures better suction capability leaving nothing behind for a cleaner and fresher feel.

Multiple stage filtration system – to make sure no dust or debris is left behind, the Black+Decker BDH2000PL has a triple stage filtration system that ensures nothing that is unwanted is left behind.

Pivoting Nozzle – instead of having to dismantle everything to get to the little pieces of dirt, the pivoting nozzle makes it easier to clean. This also makes the device more compact. Storage is much easier.

Better cleaning action – with a cyclonic action, the dust and debris are kept away from the filter. This keeps maximum suction ensuring that you superior cleaning action.

Things We Like

  • Impressive aesthetics
  • Durable build
  • Pivoting nozzle
  • Portable and lightweight
  • 3 stage filtration system

Things we don’t like

  • The clean out door is a little fragile. Requires very careful handling

Verdict

It has an easy to use and compact design, and deserves to be the best car vacuum cleaner. The most commendable feature happens to be the superior suction power – despite the small size – allowing you to get cleaning faster and with ease.

Top Brands

With regards to the best brands when looking for car vacuum cleaners, you have quite a number to look out for. However, these are topped by Black + Decker. They have a wide range of products and have been in the market for quite some time. They understand what their customers are looking for and are always trying to release innovative and reliable car vacuum cleaners with very comprehensive features.

Even though not largely covered, Dirt Devil is also making its presence in the market known. They have very portable but powerful car vacuum cleaners, and the unique finishing that they have on their products is starting to capture a lot of attention. Even though the products are not as popular as those from Black + Decker, those that have had the opportunity to use a car vacuum cleaner can testify that they get their value for money and that the products are very long lasting as well. It is just a matter of time before they get the attention they deserve. But, only if they continue with the innovative design and extremely strong motors.

Buying Guide

If you own and love keeping your car clean, buying the best car vacuum cleaner is only a matter of when not if. Even though there are quite a number of options available in the market. This doesn’t mean that you can step out there and grab the first one you see. At least not if you want to buy something that will give you value for your money and is highly functional.

There are factors that you will need to consider in order to make the best purchase possible at the best price.

Main features to consider when buying a car vacuum cleaner

  • The size of your car – the first thing you have to consider is how big your car is. If you have a small car, a small auto vacuum cleaner will suffice. If the car is big, then you need a larger vacuum cleaner. You might also want to consider how you use the car. A personal car used to go to work might not need as much cleaning as a family van used to go for picnics and outings.
  • Source power – Next, you need to consider how you would like your vacuum cleaner powered. There are three options each of them with its benefits and downsides:
  • Wall plugin; the first option you have is the wall plugin. Car vacuum cleaners powered by the wall plugin are the most powerful. However, they need you to be close to civilization at all times for them to be able to work.
  • Battery powered; These happen to be the most convenient. You can be able to use them no matter where you are. Just make sure that they are charged. They are light weight, easy to use and easier to store. However, they don’t have the best suction power. And, if you forget to charge it, then it becomes useless.
  • Automobile powered; these offer the better of two worlds. They offer you the power of a wall plug in and the convenience of a charged car vacuum. However, they are not as powerful as the wall plugin options. Nevertheless, they reduce your reliance of civilization or your forgetfulness to charge the vacuum cleaner for your car.
  • Suction power – it is not always that you will need the best car vacuum cleaner with the best suction power. It depends on with the use of the car. If you happen to carry your pets around, you need a powerful hand held vacuum cleaner with enough power to get rid of the pet hair. Other than that, you might not need all that power. But if you can afford it, there is no harm.
  • Attachments – these are a critical area of any hand vacuum cleaner. Make sure that you purchase one that has many different attachments. They will help make the cleaning easier and also make it easier to reach those tricky spots.
  • Wet or dry or both – it never hurts to invest in a vacuum cleaner for your car for both cases. After all, you never know when that coffee will come flying off the cup holder. It is better to be over prepared than under prepared.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I have to invest in the best car vacuum cleaner?

If you enjoy the smell of a clean car and are irked at the sight of small debris and dirt everywhere in the car, then yes. You will need to invest in one. It will also save you from the frequent trip of having the professionals clean your car which is costlier.

Can the car vacuum cleaner access the hard to reach areas?

Not all of them will be able to do this efficiently. This mainly depends on the make and model that you choose. Refer to the reviews above for the best car vacuum cleaners that can reach all those areas.

What are the two qualities that make the best car vacuum cleaners?

Portability and lightweight. They need to be portable because you don’t want something that takes up all your trunk space and because they are handheld, they need to be light enough to make operation easy and smooth.

Conclusion

Keeping a clean car should never be a matter of debate. After all, if you take your car for a wash every once in a while, why should you not do the same for the interior? Luckily for you, unlike the exterior, this does not have to be an expensive routine.

For hassle-free, easy, and fast cleaning, we recommend the Black+Decker BDH2000PL MAX Lithium Pivot Vacuum as our top pick. At just a small investment, you can get yourself the best car vacuum cleaner and every time you think the interior needs some cleaning or dusting, all you have to do is pull out your new vacuum cleaner and get the job done. With the help of this guide, buying the right hand held vacuum cleaner for your car should not be hard at all.

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