Standard vacuums are fine for dust and crumbs, but they can’t handle a spilled drink, muddy paw prints, or a workshop mess. That’s where a wet and dry vacuum comes in. These machines can suck up both liquids and dry debris, making them a handy tool for Aussie households.
At Bi-Rite, we stock a wide range of wet and dry vacuums to suit everything from quick daily cleans to heavy-duty mess. Below, we’ve compared the best options available in Australia right now.
What to Look For
When comparing wet and dry vacuums, check:
- Tank size: Bigger tanks suit larger spaces. Smaller tanks are lighter and easier to handle.
- Corded vs cordless: Cordless gives freedom, but runtime is limited. Corded models run as long as you need.
- Surfaces: Some models are for hard floors only. Others can refresh rugs too.
- Weight and handling: Lighter models are easier to use every day.
- Self-cleaning: A self-clean cycle saves you from messy maintenance.
- Noise: You won't use it very often if it's a sensory nightmare for you.
- Brand: Well-known names like BISSELL, Electrolux and Dreame are designed for Aussie homes and have spare parts and support. Cheaper no-name models may only last a season and often don’t clean as well.
- Warranty: Check the warranty length. Most trusted brands offer at least 2 years, which gives peace of mind if anything goes wrong.

Best Wet and Dry Vacuums in Australia
Here’s a side-by-side look at the top models you’ll find at Bi-Rite:
Model | Surfaces | Runtime or cord |
Tanks (clean/dirty) |
Weight | Best for | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Dreame H15 Pro Heat | Hard floors | Up to 72 min Quiet, 20 min Hot Water |
800 ml / 650 ml standing, 400 ml lie-flat |
5.8 kg | Deep cleans in kitchens, long runtime, premium features |
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BISSELL CrossWave OmniForce Edge 3999F | Hard floors, rugs (light refresh) | Up to 30 min | 620 ml / 450 ml (Power Mop), 800 ml debris (Power Vac) |
4.8 kg | One machine for quick vac or vac-and-wash |
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BISSELL CrossWave HF3 3598F | Hard floors | Up to 25 min | 520 ml / 420 ml | 3.99 kg | Quick daily cleans in small homes |
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BISSELL CrossWave HF2 3848F | Hard floors | 7.6 m cord | 720 ml / 540 ml | 3.99 kg | Great value for bigger spaces if a cord is fine |
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BISSELL Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam 3517F | Hard floors, rugs (light refresh) | 7.6 m cord | 828 ml / 428 ml | 5.6 kg | Tough, sticky messes. Pet households that want rug refresh |
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Electrolux UltimateHome 700 EFW71711 | Hard floors | Up to 35 mins depending on power setting | 600ml / 550ml | 6.4kg | Hygienic self-clean with antibacterial water tanks |
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Electrolux UltimateHome 700 EFW71311 | Hard floors | Up to 35 mins depending on power setting | 600ml / 550ml | 6.4 kg | Everyday cleaning with hygiene focus |
Our top picks by use case
For the best features overall |
Dreame H15 Pro Heat |
For all-in-one versatility |
BISSELL CrossWave OmniForce Edge |
For budget-friendly corded cleaning |
BISSELL CrossWave HF2 Bigger tanks and unlimited runtime. |
For pet homes |
BISSELL Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam Built-in Pet Hair Strainer and tangle free brush. |
For light and quiet cordless use |
BISSELL CrossWave HF3 The lightest and easiest for everyday runs. |
For hygiene focus |
Electrolux UltimateHome 700 series Antibacterial tanks and quick self-clean cycles. |

Quietest and Loudest Wet and Dry Vacuums
If noise is a deciding factor, the quietest wet and dry vacuums in our range are the Dreame H15 Pro Heat (~63 dB) and the BISSELL CrossWave OmniForce Edge (63–68 dB), both similar to everyday conversation. At the other end, the Electrolux UltimateHome 700 EFW71711 runs at 79–81 dB, closer to busy traffic, making it the loudest option on this list.
Price and Value
Wet and dry vacuums range from entry-level models under $400 through to premium machines over $1000.
- Entry level: Corded options like the BISSELL CrossWave HF2 sit in the most affordable bracket. They’re great value if you don’t mind plugging in.
- Mid range: Cordless models such as the BISSELL CrossWave HF3 and OmniForce Edge usually land between $400–$700, balancing convenience with tank size.
- Premium range: Advanced models like the Dreame H15 Pro Heat and BISSELL CrossWave HydroSteam push closer to the $900–$1200 mark. These bring longer runtimes, hot water or steam cleaning, and thorough self-cleaning features.
Final Tips
Think about where you’ll use it most. Kitchens and busy family areas need quick cordless convenience. Garages and large open floors benefit from bigger tanks and corded models. Pet owners will appreciate features designed for hair and odour control.

FAQs about Wet and Dry Vacuums
Can a wet and dry vacuum clean carpets?
Some models can refresh low-pile rugs and carpets, but most are designed mainly for hard floors. For deeper carpet cleaning, look at a carpet washer.
Are wet and dry vacuums safe for wooden floors?
Yes, as long as the floor is sealed. Always check the product instructions and avoid using on unsealed or waxed timber.
Do wet and dry vacuums pick up pet hair?
Yes. Models like the BISSELL CrossWave Pet include a Pet Hair Strainer and tangle-free brush that make them better suited for pet homes.
How often should I clean the tanks and brush?
Empty and rinse the dirty tank after every use. Most models have a self-clean cycle for the brush, which helps keep maintenance simple.
What’s the difference between corded and cordless wet and dry vacuums?
Cordless models give freedom and are easy for quick cleans, but runtime is limited. Corded models can run as long as you need and often have bigger tanks.
Do wet and dry vacuums replace a mop?
In many cases, yes. They vacuum and wash in one step, leaving floors cleaner and drier than a traditional mop.
Which wet and dry vacuum is the quietest?
The Dreame H15 Pro Heat (~63 dB) and the BISSELL CrossWave OmniForce Edge (63–68 dB) are the quietest wet and dry vacuums in this range. Their sound levels are similar to normal conversation, making them good choices for family homes or open-plan living areas.