Most garden vacuums are multi-functioning and feature fast flowing blowers and shredding systems. Using a single tool such as a vacuum allows you to easily keep your garden tidy and compress the debris ready for waste.
The best garden vacuum is the Bosch ALS 2500, which uses a 2,500 watt electric motor with a 10:1 shredding ratio that effortlessly clears all the leaves and debris within your garden.
Unlike leaf blowers that simply blow leaves and other objects into a pile, the vacuum saves the strain of having to pick it all up manually. They used to be seen as a luxury tool but have since dropped significantly in price over the years.
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Garden Vacuum Comparison
| Garden Vacuum | Electric Motor | Mulching |
|---|---|---|
| Bosch ALS 2500 | 2,500 Watts | 10:1 |
| Q Garden QGBV2500 | 2,500 Watts | 10:1 |
| Flymo PowerVac | 3,000 Watts | 16:1 |
| BLACK+DECKER GW2500 | 2,500 Watts | 16:1 |
| WORX WG505E Trivac | 3,000 Watts | 16:1 |
Compared against petrol powered vacuums, the electric motor is the best option for small to medium sized gardens. This is mainly due to the lightness, affordability and ease of starting it up.
The shredding system of a garden vacuum is an important feature as it reduces the amount of times you have to empty the collection bag. Not only is this more efficient but it also means you can fit more into the compost bin.
Below is a list of the best garden vacuums that will easily blow away, suck up and mulch leaves and other debris.
The Best Garden Vacuum
1. Bosch ALS 2500 Electric Garden Vacuum
The Bosch ALS 2500 is both a garden vacuum and blower that uses a powerful 2,500 watt electric motor. It is designed so that you can use the blower mode to collect leaves and debris into a corner. You can then switch to the vacuum mode to suck up all the waste.
To help reduce fatigue, Bosch have integrated a padded shoulder strap and adjustable handle to make using the ALS 2500 as comfortable as possible.
Other features of the Bosch ALS 2500 include:
- Shredder functionality with a 10:1 ratio
- Variable flow speed between 280 – 300 km/h
- Large 45 litre collection bag
- Variable blowing speed
- Lightweight at 4.4 KG during vacuuming
Overall, the ALS 2500 garden vacuum is backed by one of the trusted brands in the UK for peace of mind. It also has a large collection bag at 45 litres, which is more than capable of clearing a large garden in one go. It is the best option that includes both a blower and vacuum.
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2. Q Garden QGBV2500 Leaf Blower Vacuum
The Q Garden QGBV2500 is a more affordable option to the Bosch ALS 2500 above but with very similar performance. It is a 3-in-1 tool that will blow, vacuum and shred leafs and other debris around the garden.
Features of the Q Garden QGBV2500 include:
- 2,500 watt electric motor
- 45 litre collection bag
- Padded should strap
- 10 metres power cable
- 10:1 shredding ratio
Due to the performance and value for money, this garden vacuum is by far one of the most popular available.
Compared to the Bosch ALS 2500, it may have the same performance but may not have the same build quality. However, considering the low price tag, it is an excellent option for those wanting a cheap garden vacuum.
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3. Flymo PowerVac 3000 Garden Vacuum
Flymo is one of the most popular brands within the gardening industry. The PowerVac 3000 is a powerful blower and vacuum that has an impressive shredding ratio of 16:1, which is the one of the best within this article.
To switch between the blower and vacuum, you simply change the tube, which requires no tools and takes seconds.
Features of the Flymo PowerVac 3000 include:
- 3,000 watt electric motor
- Easy switch between blower and vacuum
- Variable speed for greater control
- Flow speed of 310 km/hr
- 10 metre power cable
- 45 litre collection bag
- Weighs 5.2 KG
The Flymo PowerVac 3000 is a high performing garden vacuum that will not disappoint. As it is a Flymo product, you can rest assure that if any issues arise, you will have the full support of the brand to solve the issue.
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4. BLACK+DECKER GW2500 Leaf Vacuum
The BLACK+DECKER GW2500 is a premium example that comes with two tubes for switching between a blower or vacuum functionality. It uses a 2,500 watt electric motor that the brand claim can tackle wet garden debris that many other alternatives struggle with.
Other features of the BLACK+DECKER GW2500 include:
- 310Km/h blowing speed
- Lightweight at just 3.2 KG
- Shredding reduction of 10:1
- Includes a carrying strap
- 6.2 metre power cable
- 40 litre collection bag with large opening
Overall, the BLACK+DECKER GW2500 is an excellent all-round garden vacuum that has the added benefit of being able to suck up wet debris. It is perfect for small to medium sized gardens and relatively affordable too.
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5. WORX WG505E Trivac Garden Vacuum
The WORX Trivac features a blower, mulcher and vacuum with 7 speed settings for maximum control. It uses a 3,000 watt electric motor, which the brand claim can blow away leaves at 210 MPH and vacuum leaves at 63 litres per minute.
Unlike many of the alternatives within this article, this WORX Trivac switches between a blower and vacuum at a flick of a switch. There is no need to switch between tubes.
Other features of the WORX Trivac include:
- Lightweight and compact design
- Metal impeller
- 16:1 mulching system
- Runs at 70 dB
- Patented angle nose design
- Ergonomic handle
Overall, it is a top rated garden vacuum that does everything that you would want and more. However, it is the most expensive within this article, which may put it out of reach for many people.
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Garden Vacuum Buying Guide
Tidying your garden manually with traditional gardening tools can be a difficult task. Fallen leaves that are left untouched not only look untidy but also make paths or drives slippery and even make lawns become waterlogged.
By using a garden vacuum with a blower and mulching function, it makes clearing up the garden debris far easier.
Simply blow away the leaves and debris into one pile, suck it up with the vacuum and let the shredder cut it into tiny pieces ready for the compost bin.
To help you make an informed buying decision, we have produced the below guide regarding garden vacuums.
3-in-1 Functionality
Due to the advancements in technology, most motors are able power up the blowing, vacuuming and shredding functionality. We highly recommend opting for a garden vacuum that does each function as it will allow you to tidy up far more efficiently. It is rare to find a garden vacuum that only acts as a vacuum as the majority include the blower and shredder functionality.
Types of Vacuums
As with most gardening tools that feature a motor, you have the choice of an electric or petrol powered motor.
The electric models are the best option for the majority of people as they are simply plug in and go. They are also far lighter and easier to use but do have the drawback of requiring a power supply. If you have a medium to large sized garden, you will want to ensure the cable length is long enough and that you have an outdoor extension lead available.
Petrol power vacuums are less common and more suited towards professional gardeners and large gardens. They have the added benefit of additional power and can easily suck up large volumes of leaves and debris. However, the main drawback is that it will require maintenance over the years and the initial cost is far greater.
Shredding Capabilities
To help disposing of the leaves and debris that you have vacuumed, most will shred it into tiny pieces. However, some garden vacuums perform better than others as they are able to shred the debris into even smaller pieces. This means less emptying of the collection bag and less room required within the waste/compost bins.
Most manufacturers will state a shredding ratio with many ranging from 10:1 to 16:1. Smaller shredded debris will take up less room in the collection bag, which means less emptying.
Collection Bag
An essential component of any garden vacuum is the collection bag. The majority range from 30 to 50 litres in size and simply collect all the debris that has been sucked up by the vacuum. The larger the bag, the longer you can carry on clearing debris without emptying but it does make it slightly heavier.
Debris To Avoid
Powerful garden vacuums can pick up far more than just leaves or cut grass and should be used with caution. For example, if you were to suck up small stones or pebbles, this may break the shredding system.
Depending upon the vacuum you purchase, you may not even be able to suck up wet leaves or other debris. This is due to the fact that it may clog up the shredder or tube.
Conclusion
Purchasing the best garden vacuum you can get your hands on can make a huge difference. Clearing up wet leaves, cut grass and other debris can be fairly difficult with traditional tools. Luckily, the price of garden vacuums have dropped significantly, thus making them more affordable.
All of the recommendations above are suitable for a range of budgets and all feature a blower, vacuum and shredder. Once you have used a garden vacuum once, you will never look go back to manually picking up debris again.
