Can Vacuum Suck Up Wet Leaves?

Wet leaves are the most irritating objects to clean after your yard goes through a shower session! But typical lawn vacuums aren’t designed to do that job for you. So, you might wonder whether you can use a leaf vacuum on wet leaves.

Well, you may or may not be able to use a leaf vacuum for clearing up the wet debris – it all comes down to a few factors.

So, if you’re wondering whether you can use a leaf vacuum on wet leaves – keep reading below!

Types of Leaf Vacuums

Let me enlighten you on the types of vacuum cleaners to make the discussion easy for you. Generally, there are two types of leaf vacuums:

• Handheld vacuums
• Powered leaf vacuums

Handheld Vacuums

These are the battery-operated versions of a leaf vacuum and are used to cover small areas like sidewalks, decks, pavements, etc. As the name suggests, you can easily carry them around, so they also have commendable maneuverability!

Powered Vacuums

Powered vacuums, unlike battery-operated ones, are operated via electricity or gas. They cover up large areas such as yards, lawns, etc. 

Handheld Vs. Powered Vacuums: Who Can Suck Up Wet Leaves?

Both vacuum cleaners face numerous errors when sucking up fallen wet foliage. 

Let’s talk about handheld vacuum cleaners first.

You see, handheld vacuums are perfect for usage in small areas. Hence, they can suck up a considerable amount of wet leaves! However, a higher dosage of wet leaves can clog up the vacuum’s suction tube.

And when the vacuum cleaner’s suction tube becomes blocked, numerous issues come along. 

Hence, even if you decide to go down this route – consider thoroughly cleaning your vacuum cleaner’s suction tube (and bag) after every cleaning session.

Let’s talk about powered vacuum cleaners now.

Powered vacuums, however, are not recommended for use on wet leaves. The reason lies in the vacuum’s motor. Wet leaves carry a heavy weight, making it harder for the vacuum to pick them up.

Hence, using them for wet leaves can cause the motor to overheat and cease to work. The wet material can also cause potential damage to other internal components, such as blades, chutes, and more.

Still, if you wish to proceed with a powered vacuum, I’d advise letting the wet leaves dry for a few hours. Afterward, you can carry on with the cleaning. 

There could be another way around it if you have a big lawn full of wet leaves using a lawn sweeper can help you to get rid of them. Pile them up and collect them.

Conclusion

All in all, it’s always better to check your vacuum’s type and ratings before clearing up the wet fall leaves from your yards, lawns, etc.

Factors To Keep In Mind While Using a Leaf Vacuum on Wet Leaves

Using a leaf vacuum for clearing up wet debris is great, provided you keep these factors in mind:

Choosing The Right Vacuum Cleaner

There are two types of leaf vacuums, handheld and powered vacuums. While both of these aren’t really qualified to do the job, one exceeds the other in efficiency (refer to the above headings).

Therefore, deciding on the right vacuum cleaner for this job is important!

Check Your Vacuum’s Ratings

Typically, leaf vacuums come with a rating that can give you an idea about the machine’s efficiency against wet leaves and debris. Hence, it’s advised to thoroughly check your vacuum’s specifications to judge whether it’s cut out to clear up the wet waste.

Moisture Level on Leaves

The moisture level is the deal-breaker in deciding whether to use your leaf vacuum. 

If you’re about to vacuum slightly damp leaves – a handheld vacuum would efficiently do the job for you. However, if that’s not the case – you can use a powered vacuum cleaner after letting the leaves dry for a few hours.

A handheld vacuum can perform exceptionally well once you pile up the wet leaves using the blower and wait up until dampness decreases. It will sound a great deal if you can get 2 in 1 leaf blower and vacuum (Check this one out.)

Conclusion

Leaf vacuums are a great source of clearing up leaves and debris from your yards, lawns, sidewalks, and whatnot. However, many wonder whether they can use a leaf vacuum on wet leaves.

Generally, it all comes down to a few factors, such as the vacuum’s type, specifications, and leaf moisture level. 

So, if you’re still confused about what steps to take before clearing out the wet leaves through your leaf vacuum – I’m sure the above article will clear all your misconceptions!