Ryobi 18V ONE+ HP SWIFTCLEAN WET/DRY STICK VACUUM

Cleaning floors can often feel like a never-ending chore, especially when you have a mix of wet spills and dry debris to contend with. Enter Ryobi's 18V ONE+ HP SwiftClean Wet/Dry Stick Vacuum—a tool that promises to simplify this task. With its dual functionality and battery-powered convenience, it aims to be a game-changer for anyone with sealed hard floors. Here's my detailed experience using this versatile cleaning machine.

Setup and First Impressions

Upon unboxing, the SwiftClean immediately impresses with its solid build quality. Assembly is straightforward, and the instructions are clear, though it's crucial to read them to avoid missing any operational nuances. The package includes a hard surface cleaning formula, an extra roller, an extra air filter, and a universal Ryobi battery pack and charger. I appreciate that the battery is interchangeable with other Ryobi tools, making it a seamless addition to my existing Ryobi collection.

Design and Usability

The vacuum is lightweight, weighing just 3.6 pounds in hand. This makes it easy to maneuver around the house, even in tight spaces. The 10-inch cleaning width is adequate for most rooms, although it struggles a bit against baseboards and tight corners. The LED headlights are a thoughtful touch, illuminating the floor ahead and helping to spot dirt and debris even in dimly lit areas.

Dual Functionality: Vacuuming and Mopping

The standout feature of this tool is its ability to vacuum and mop simultaneously. I was initially skeptical about how well it could perform both tasks, but it exceeded my expectations. The SwiftClean technology ensures efficient debris pickup, and the MAX mode provides increased suction power for more challenging messes.

When used as a dry vacuum, it effectively picks up crumbs, pet hair, and small debris. Switching to the wet mode is seamless, with the LED display indicating the operational status clearly. The dual tanks for clean and dirty water are easy to fill and empty. The clean tank has a capacity of 22 ounces, while the dirty tank holds 14 ounces—sufficient for cleaning large areas without frequent stops.

Cleaning Performance

On my sealed hard floors—ranging from vinyl to tile and hardwood—the SwiftClean performed admirably. The mop feature is particularly impressive. The soft roller gently scrubs the floor, lifting dirt and dried spills effortlessly. I was surprised by how dirty the water in the dirty tank was after my first pass, proving that the tool was picking up grime that my regular mop had missed.

The self-cleaning cycle is another highlight. After each use, placing the vacuum on its stand activates the self-cleaning mode, which uses power from the vacuum battery to clean the roller and internal components. This feature significantly reduces maintenance time and ensures the tool is ready for the next use.

Battery Life and Noise Level

The vacuum's battery life is a mixed bag. A single charge provides around 40 minutes of continuous use, which was enough to clean my 1,100-square-foot floor in one pass. However, it requires 1.5 hours to recharge, which can be inconvenient if you have a larger area to clean and only one battery. On the upside, the noise level is relatively low at 65 dB(A), making it quieter than many other vacuums. It didn't startle my pets, which is always a plus.

Areas for Improvement

While the SwiftClean has a lot going for it, there are a few areas where it falls short. The most notable is the unavailability of spare filters and rollers. The manual recommends changing these parts every 3 to 6 months, but they are currently hard to find online or in stores. This could be a significant drawback for long-term use. Additionally, the tool defaults to wet mode, which can be annoying if you primarily want to use it as a dry vacuum.

Another minor issue is the tool's performance on dry mode. The filter clogs easily when used dry, requiring frequent cleaning. Furthermore, it doesn't clean tight against baseboards, leaving a strip of untouched floor that needs to be cleaned manually.

Final Thoughts

The Ryobi SwiftClean Wet/Dry Stick Vacuum is a robust, versatile tool that significantly simplifies floor cleaning. Its dual functionality, ease of use, and self-cleaning feature make it a convenient option for maintaining sealed hard floors. It performs well in both vacuuming and mopping, and its lightweight design and LED headlights add to its usability.

However, the challenges with spare parts availability and the relatively short battery life are worth considering. If you have a large area to clean or prefer using the tool primarily in dry mode, you may need additional batteries and be prepared for some maintenance effort.

Recommendation

Would I recommend the Ryobi SwiftClean Wet/Dry Stick Vacuum? Yes, with some reservations. It's an excellent tool for those with smaller to medium-sized areas of sealed hard floors who want a convenient, all-in-one solution for vacuuming and mopping. Its ease of use and effective cleaning performance make it a worthwhile investment, especially if you already own other Ryobi tools and can share batteries. However, if you require extensive cleaning sessions or need spare parts frequently, you might want to consider these factors before making a purchase. Overall, the SwiftClean is a solid addition to any home cleaning arsenal, offering convenience and efficiency in one sleek package.