A yard can look beautiful in all seasons of the year, but sometimes, you have to work a bit harder to maintain its good looks. Autumn is by far the trickiest season when it comes to cleaning your yard.
Nothing looks as messy as leaves that are piling up on your lawn and paths. The entire thing gets worse by the day as the leaves are rotting, which is why you need proper tools.
Wet and slippery leaves are a nightmare to clean, which is why you should consider a leaf vacuum. It makes it easy to pick up different piles of leaves without too much effort.
Still, there are plenty of best leaf vacuums on the market, which might be a bit overwhelming. The key in finding the best leaf vacuum is in considering your needs and preferences as well as some critical buying factors. Luckily, we’re here to help you choose among the top picks, so take a moment to read the article below.
Product Name | Air Speed | Weight | Air Volume |
---|---|---|---|
BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Blower & Mulcher BV6000 | 250 mph | 8.1 lbs | Unknown |
Toro 51621 UltraPlus Leaf Blower Vacuum | 250 mph | 8 lbs | 350 CFM |
WORX WG509 TRIVAC | 210 mph | 9.3 lbs | 350 CFM |
BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 BV6600 | 250 mph | 8.1 lbs | 250 CFM |
Greenworks Cordless Leaf Blower/Vacuum | 185 mph | 5.6 lbs | 430 CFM |
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools BVM23014S | up to 250 mph | 10 lbs | up to 410 CFM |
TECCPO 3-in-1 Leaf Blower Vacuum Mulcher | up to 250 mph | 11.55 lbs | 280-410 CFM |
WORX WG512 Trivac 2.0 | 70 mph | 8 lbs | 600 CFM |
BLACK+DECKER LSWV36 Lithium Blower Vacuum | 185 mph | 6.9 lbs | 85 CFM |
KIMO Cordless Leaf Blower | 110 mph | 2.2 lbs | 600 CFM |
Sun Joe SBJ606E-GA-SJG | 240 mph | 0.16 oz | Unknown |
Best Leaf Vacuums For the Money
BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 Electric Leaf Mulcher BV6000
This 3-in-1 Black+Decker electric leaf vacuum works as a blower, and vacuum and mulcher. This leaf vacuum allows maximum convenience and ease of use as all three units are packed in one. It weighs some 8 pounds, so it’s quite easy to carry around, allowing you to use it in your yard, driveway, garage, deck, and sidewalks.
The leaf vacuum has two speed selections, operating at 250 miles per hour. It comes with a disposable bag. The electric leaf vacuum is one of the best leaf vacuums and it can pick up on everything from twigs, grass clippings, and pine needles.
On top of that, going from vacuum to blower is also quite simple. This can make 16 bags of mulch fit in just one thanks to its 12 Amp motor.
This electric leaf vacuum comes with a blow tube, EZ Empty reusable collection bag, concentrator, and a vacuum tube. The package also includes two disposable bags and a detachable shoulder strap.
Pros
- Vacuum, blower, and mulcher combined
- Low noise
- For pine needles, grass, twigs
Cons
- Not the best for wet leaves
Toro 51621 UltraPlus Leaf Vacuum
Toro 51621 UltraPlus corded electric leaf vacuum is a 3-in-1 machine, working as a blower, leaf vacuum, and a shredder. It provides effortless blowing and a great mulching ratio thanks to its blowing power.
It’s quite powerful, sporting up to 250 mph, with 350 CFM of blowing power and 410 CFM in vacuum mode. Another thing worth noting is its variable speed control, allowing you to adjust it based on your needs.
This corded electric leaf vacuum comes with a vacuum tube, cord storage hook, bottom-zip bag, oscillating tube, and shred-all shred ring. There’s an extension cord, but it’s available for additional purchase as it’s not included in the package.
Keep in mind that the bag is meant to capture twigs, and pine needles. It’s not supposed to capture dust. Also, this leaf vacuum requires constant airflow so that it can work properly.
Pros
- Only 8 pounds
- Variable speed control
- Works as three machines in one
Cons
- Not for large particles
WORX WG509 TRIVAC
This leaf vacuum is another 3-in-1 machine that works as a mulcher, leaf vacuum, and blower. Changing between modes is quite simple as there’s only a switch for that. It doesn’t require any tools or setting up.
The metal mulcher has a shredder blade that cuts leaves in two stages. It chops everything down to small pieces, making it that much easier to pick up the mess. Depending on the size of the leaves, this leaf vacuum can reduce 18 bags into 1.
It has two speeds, allowing you to choose between 75 mph and 210 mph. This makes it easy to clean the leaves from open lawns as well as tight areas and corners.
This leaf vacuum weighs 9.3 pounds and is ergonomically designed, so it’s relatively simple to use with just one hand. Plus, it comes with a clever tube that angles up at the lip.
Pros
- Ergonomic design
- Adjustable speed
- 3-in-1 machine
Cons
- For dry leaf vacuuming only
BLACK+DECKER 3-in-1 BV6600
This leaf blower vacuum is among the best leaf vacuums and leaf blowers on the market. It operates as a mulcher, vacuum, and blower with its 12 Amp motor.
The machine has adjustable speed settings, making it easy to pick up different debris such as twigs and pine needles. The 250 mph blower allows for quick cleaning and ease of use.
The BV6600 leaf vacuum grinds up to 16 bags down to one. Plus, it features a disposable bag system, which means there’s no mess of emptying the bags. However, you’ll have to buy additional ones. This leaf vacuum comes with a blow tube, a vacuum tube, EZ empty reusable collection, and a concentrator.
Another thing worth mentioning is its low-noise operation. It’s not really quiet, but it’s not as noisy as most leaf vacuums on the market.
Pros
- Powerful and lightweight
- Quiet operation
- It shreds leaves into tiny pieces
Cons
- It’s much heavier when the bag is full
Greenworks Cordless Leaf Vacuum
If you need an extended reach, you might want to consider this battery operated Greenworks blower and leaf vacuum. It features a brushless motor, offering a longer run time, as well as more blowing power and torque. As a result, the machine is supposed to last a long time.
This battery operated leaf vacuum comes with adjustable speed that goes up to 185 mph, making it easy to pick up leaves, grass pieces, twigs, and pine needles. It’s simple and efficient, especially thanks to the No-Load Speed system.
Another thing that makes it stand out is the fact that it can pick up leaves that are wet. Its versatile use allows you to do all kinds of yard work without too much effort.
This leaf vacuum comes with Greenworks G-MAX 40V batteries, as it’s the only battery type that’s compatible with. The charger is also included.
Pros
- For wet and dry leaves
- Up to 185 miles per hour
- Cordless blower, up to 60 minutes of run time
Cons
- Not as much blowing power when used in blower mode
Scotts Outdoor Power Tools BVM23014S
This leaf vacuum sports 24-Amp of power and has adjustable speed control, allowing ease of use and simplicity at all times. Its multi-tool function helps deliver mulching, vacuuming, and blowing in one machine.
The speed goes from 110 to 200 miles per hour, providing some 310 to 410 CFM of airflow. Plus, it’s vital to note that it’s quite simple to go from blower to vacuum and the other way around. It has a durable metal impeller that mulches debris to a 15:1 ration.
On top of that, this leaf vacuum has adjustable tube length and wheels that allow convenient maneuvering. It’s equally as simple to use on different surfaces such as your lawn, driveway, and sidewalks. The leaf vacuum comes with a large 18.5-gallon collection bag and a shoulder strap for more comfortable use.
Pros
- For both wet and dry leaves
- Durable metal impeller
- Built-in adjustable rake
Cons
- Not for large leaves
TECCPO 3-in-1 Leaf Blower/Vacuum/Mulcher
This Teccpo 3-in-1 machine operates as a leaf vacuum, blower, and mulcher. It has variable speeds ranging from 170 to 250 miles per hour. Its variable speed ranges from 280 to 410 CFM.
There’s a quick-switch for you to go between the three operation modes depending on your needs. The mulching blades are made of spring steel, providing mulching down to 16:1 ratio. This leaf vacuum has enough power to tackle leaves as well as thin ABS plastic, but not branches.
The machine is made of PU plastic and is ergonomically designed. The leaf vacuum provides a good grip, and it weighs almost 11 pounds. Another thing worth noting is that it comes with an improved collection bag that’s specifically designed for easy emptying.
Pros
- Double-layer coating on the inside of the bag
- Works with leaves that are wet
- Variable speed
Cons
- Not the most heavy-duty bag
WORX WG512 Trivac 2.0
This is a mulcher, blower, and leaf vacuum, allowing you to make quick cleanups in your yard, garage, and sidewalks. With 600 CFM and a wide-mouth tube, the machine is powerful and efficient.
Its high-capacity volume makes it easy to clean more on the initial pass. You don’t have to go across the same area twice in order to pick up leaves, twigs, and pine needles.
This leaf vacuum has a metal impeller and a shredder blade that cuts in two stages. It chops leaves into tiny pieces, making it easy to fit 16 bags into one.
Plus, this leaf vacuum has two speeds, but it’s better to go slow in tight corners and pavements. The second speed is suitable for open yards and lawns. It weighs only 8 pounds and has a 12” electrical cord.
Pros
- Detachable bag
- Easy to use 3-in-1 system
- Strong suction
Cons
- No shoulder strap
BLACK+DECKER LSWV36 Lithium Blower/Vacuum
Black + Decker LSWV36 battery powered leaf vacuum is a handy and convenient machine that’s much more efficient than gas-powered blowers and leaf vacuums. It releases 0 emissions, working as both a blower and a vacuum.
It weighs nearly 7 pounds in total, which isn’t a lot for this type of machine. It’s excellent to use on decks, patios, driveways, walkways, and garage.
With an airspeed of up to 120 miles per hour and a large leaf bag, the vacuum is easy to use at all times. Keep in mind that it’s a cordless blower and powered by a 40V lithium-ion battery, so it provides unlimited reach.
One thing that’s critical to point out is that this leaf vacuum is for hard surfaces only. It’s not meant for leaves on soft surfaces such as lawns. It mulches leaves down to a 6:1 ratio.
Pros
- Blow and vacuum tubes included
- Unlimited reach
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not for big leaves on soft surfaces
KIMO Cordless Leaf Blower
This portable leaf sweeper and vacuum is easy to use thanks to its weight and 2-in-1 design. It’s ideal for open law areas and tight corners, nooks, and crannies. Plus, the cordless design makes it easy to blow/vacuum anywhere.
Because it only weighs 2 pounds, the machine is ideal for garages and sidewalks, cleaning everything from fallen leaves to snow.
It provides up to 13000r/min of strong power, running for approximately 20 minutes. This is usually enough time for most yards and patios.
This is not only a leaf vacuum, but an excellent vacuum for dust, pet hair, and different particles in your yard. Charging takes some sixty minutes, and there’s an indicator that shows battery life. The vacuum comes with a blow tube and a white ring as well as a reusable collection bag.
Pros
- Detailed instruction manual included
- Recharges twice as faster than most leaf vacuums
- Strong suction
Cons
- It’s quite small (requires frequent emptying)
Sun Joe SBJ606E-GA-SJG
This Sun Joe machine is pretty unique, especially thanks to its 4-in-1 design. This is a gutter cleaner, blower, vacuum and mulcher, making it easy to maintain your yard with a single tool.
It switches between the four modes with ease and within seconds so that you don’t waste any time as you’re cleaning. Plus, it can pick up everything from leaves, twigs, pine needles, and other yard particles.
However, it’s also somewhat small, so you’ll have to empty it more often, depending on the size of your yard. The machine features a powerful 14 Amp motor, generating up to 250 mph.
The impeller is quite durable as it’s made of aluminum alloy. It shreds different debris with ease and faster than ever. Plus, it has six speeds.
Pros
- Built to last
- Easy to use and lightweight
- For different yard debris
Cons
- A bit tricky to empty
Leaf Vacuum Types
As you probably noticed, there are several different types of leaf vacuums. Although it’s quite handy to have such a versatile list, these many products can make it tricky to find the best leaf vacuum.
Take a minute to read about the different vacuum types so that you can pick the ideal vacuum for you.
Electric Leaf Blower
An electric leaf blower is usually a handheld machine. Some models are cordless while others are corded and require a power socket. The electric blower cord is generally too short, so you’ll probably need an extension cable as well.
Electric blowers are now more powerful than they were before, so you can easily find a model that’s more powerful than a gas leaf vacuum.
Gas Leaf Blower
Gas leaf vacuum is the classic type that’s capable of cleaning grass clippings, leaves, pine needles, and other debris. In most cases, these have plenty of power and can pick up even some larger pieces.
Many models come with shoulder straps so that you don’t have to carry them on your back.
Lawn Sweeper
These sweepers are ideal for picking up the leaves that are left behind your mower. If you have a riding mower, you can attach a sweeper to it and pick up everything with less effort.
Push sweepers are also an option, although those require a bit more effort and elbow grease.
Lawn Vacuum
These leaf vacuums can pick up pretty much everything from grass clippings, leaves, and twigs to pine needles and other such debris.
Many models are available, allowing you to choose between handheld, walk-behind, and tow-behind machines. In most cases, they’re quite easy to use, ranging in features and functions.
How to Use a Leaf Vacuum?
Many people are often scared of using a leaf vacuum for the first time. Most models are cumbersome and noise, which is what makes people a bit hesitant. However, these machines are pretty simple to use.
Begin in the left-hand corner, blowing most of the leaves into one pile. Don’t be too precise with this because it’s nearly impossible to round up every leaf using a vacuum or a blower vac.
Bring the majority into a pile and use a vacuum to pick it up. You’ll probably have to empty the bag a few times, depending on how big the pile is.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you have an idea of how the best leaf vacuum can change your yard maintenance routine. It’s a handy machine that easily removes all the leaves and debris from your yard, sidewalks, garage, patio, and other outdoor areas.
As you probably noticed, there are several different models for you to choose from. Choosing the best leaf vacuums among our top picks isn’t as complicated as it may seem as long as you have an idea of what you need. Make sure to consider your needs and preferences as you search for a powerful and lightweight leaf vacuum.
We reviewed the several best ones so that you can easily choose the vacuum that fits your needs the most.
Sources and Resources
- Modification and Application of a Leaf Blower-vac
– https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5091776/
- Using leaf collection and street cleaning to reduce nutrients in urban stormwater
– https://www.usgs.gov/centers/umid-water/science/using-leaf-collection-and-street-cleaning-reduce-nutrients-urban?qt-science_center_objects=0#qt-science_center_objects