If you are concerned about lead dust in your home, you need to buy a HEPA vacuum.
A HEPA vacuum is designed to remove tiny particles, including lead dust, from the air.
After extensive research, our favorite vacuum for lead dust is the Vacmaster Pro 8-gallon Certified Hepa Filtration.
This vacuum is well-built, ultra-quiet, super effective, and explicitly designed to lead dust.
Although the Vacmaster Pro 8 is an excellent vacuum, other great vacuums that are affordable and effective made it on our list.
You can find the full review below, along with the pros and cons.
5 Best Hepa vacuums For Lead Dust Removal
1. Top Pick: Vacmaster Pro 8-gallon Certified Hepa Filtration Wet/Dry Vac
The Vacmaster Pro 8-gallon Certified Hepa Filtration vacuum is among the best-priced high-quality vacuums.
This vacuum has a HEPA filter that can capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.03 microns in size, making it ideal for lead dust removal and prevention.
The 76-pint collection tank has an easy-to-empty design, so you don’t have to worry about spills or messes when emptying it.
It also has a two-stage industrial motor for powerful suction and a 30-ft. cord to give you plenty of reaches.
Pros:
- Offers a high-quality HEPA filter for lead dust removal and prevention.
- 76-pint tank is easy to empty.
- Two-stage industrial motor for powerful suction.
- The 30-ft cord gives you plenty of reach.
- The tank is made of crush-proof polypropylene
Cons:
- Noisier than some other vacuums.
Verdict: If you need a powerful and affordable vacuum for lead dust removal and prevention, the Vacmaster Pro is a great option. It has many great features, including a two-stage industrial motor, a crush-proof tank, and an easy-to-empty design.
2. Runner Up: Shark ZU561 Navigator Vacuum with HEPA Filter
The Shark ZU561 Navigator Upright Vacuum with HEPA Filter is our top pick for the best HEPA vacuum for lead dust. It comes with a self-cleaning brush roll and an upright vacuum for powerful carpet and floor cleaning.
There is also complete seal anti-allergen technology, a HEPA filter that traps up to 99.97% of particles, swivel steering for easy maneuverability, and a suction control slider.
It also comes with extra tools – a hair removal multi-tool, a crevice tool, and an upholstery tool. The manufacturer offers a five-year warranty on this product.
However, If you want a vacuum that is not commercial for lead dust, then the Shark ZU561 is a true winner.
Pros:
- Comes with a self-cleaning brush roll for easy cleaning.
- HEPA filter traps up to 99.97% of particles
- Swivel steering for easy maneuverability
- Suction control slider
- Extra tools included – a hair removal multi-tool, crevice tool, and upholstery tool.
- Weighs 13. pounds which makes it lightweight.
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
Verdict: This product comes with a lot of features that are sure to impress you. While it is more expensive than most products on this list, it is going to give you value for your money.
3. Most Lightweight: Hoover Commercial Lightweight Backpack Bagged Vacuum
The Hoover Commercial Lightweight Backpack Bagged Vacuum Cleaner is a favorite for lead dust.
People loved how incredibly easy it is to clean with. Also, you can dump the filter into a trash can in your garage to avoid a mess.
This vacuum also weighs only nine pounds, making it easy to carry around.
It also comes with a chiropractor-designed harness to help reduce user strain and a quiet operation so you can clean up lead dust without disturbing others.
What’s more? An accessory bag includes a two-inch dusting brush, four inches upholstery tool, a turbo floor tool, and a crevice tool.
It also has a HEPA filter that can capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.03 microns in size.
The manufacturer offers a two-year warranty on this product.
Pros:
- Lightweight – only weighs nine pounds
- Makes the toughest jobs easy
- 50 Feet cord
- HEPA filter for lead dust removal and prevention.
- Quiet operation so you can clean without disturbing
- Backpack bagged vacuum is easy to carry around.
Cons:
- The plastic straps can break easily
Verdict: If you are looking for a lightweight and quiet vacuum cleaner that can help with lead dust removal and prevention, the Hoover Commercial Lightweight Backpack Bagged Vacuum Cleaner is a great option. It comes with a HEPA filter and a chiropractor-designed harness, making it easy to carry around and clean up.
4. Best Value: NEQUARE Vacuum Cleaner
The NEQUARE vacuum cleaner is lightweight – it only weighs 2.5 pounds, making it easy to carry around.
It also comes with a HEPA filter, LED multi-tasker floor head, dual-HEPA filtration, and rotatable motorized brush for lead dust removal and prevention.
People loved that this vacuum suction power was fantastic. They also loved that the NEQUARE vacuum stands erect without leaning against a wall.
This vacuum converts to a handheld cleaner for cleaning cars, sofas, stairs, etc. The manufacturer offers a two-year warranty on this product.
Pros:
- Lightweight – only weighs 2.5 pounds.
- Sturdy and not cheaply made
- Very powerful for both hardwood or tile floors and carpets
- HEPA filter for lead dust removal and prevention.
- Quiet operation so you can clean without disturbing others in your home or office building.
- Converts to a handheld cleaner for cleaning cars, sofas, stairs, etc.
Cons:
- Can be noisy
Verdict: The NEQUARE Vacuum Cleaner is an excellent option if you want something cheap yet effective. It has a HEPA filter, LED multi-tasker floor head, dual-HEPA filtration, and a rotatable motorized brush to remove lead dust.
5. Top-of-the Range: ATRIX High Capacity 5 Gallon HEPA Lead Dust Vacuum
The ATRIX HEPA lead dust vacuum is another great option for lead dust removal and prevention. It is equipped with a HEPA filter that can capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.03 microns in size, making it ideal for lead dust removal and prevention.
The 48-pint collection tank has an easy-to-empty design, so you don’t have to worry about spills or messes when emptying it.
It also has a 1000-hour powerful motor for superior suction power, wheels, and an included brush to make it easy to move around.
Pros:
- Comes with a HEPA filter and wheels for lead dust removal and prevention.
- 48-pint tank is easy to empty.
- 1000-hour powerful motor for superior suction power.
- Weighs only 21 lbs, making it easy to move around.
Cons:
- Quite expensive
Verdict: If you are looking for a top-of-the-line vacuum with a lot of features, the ATRIX High Capacity vacuum is a great option. It comes with a HEPA filter, wheels, and an included brush, making it easy to move around and clean up lead dust.
How To Choose A Vacuum For Lead Dust
There are so many vacuums on the market these days that it can be hard to know which one is right for you.
If you are looking for a vacuum specifically designed to remove lead dust, then here are some factors you should consider:
Features To Consider
Weight
A lightweight vacuum will be easier to carry around with you. You want to get a vacuum that’s not too heavy, so it’s not a hassle when you have to move from one room to another.
Durability
As with any other product, you want to make sure that your vacuum cleaner is durable. You don’t want to spend money on a product that will break after just a few months of use, so consider looking into reviews and testimonials before making any purchases.
Suction Power
Lead dust is generally found in small particles and requires high suction power to clean properly. Look for vacuums with powerful motors that will remove lead dust with ease.
A good indicator of how well your vacuum will perform is the amp rating – higher ratings usually mean more powerful suction.
Dust Capacity
The amount of dust your vacuum can hold will determine how often you have to stop and clean it. A larger dust capacity means less work for you.
Get a vacuum that can hold at least two cups of dirt and dust before you need to empty it out.
HEPA Filter
A good vacuum for lead dust should have a HEPA filter as well because these are designed to trap tiny particles like lead from getting into the air when you clean.
This means less cleanup time later on since there won’t be any left behind on surfaces after vacuuming has been completed.
Price
You want to get the best deal for your money, so it’s important that you shop around and compare the prices of different models before buying one.
Don’t be afraid to spend more if it means getting a better vacuum cleaner with all the features you need.
Ease of Use
Consider how easy the vacuum cleaner is to use. You should be able to assemble it without any trouble and have no problems using all its features, such as turning on or off the suction power or emptying out dust from inside of it.
Nozzles
This is another feature to look out for, as some vacuums come with different nozzles that can be helpful in reaching tight spaces or corners.
Warranty
A good vacuum cleaner should come with a warranty so you can have it repaired or replaced if something goes wrong with it within a certain amount of time.
Customer Support
This is another factor you do not want to ignore, as it will determine how easy or difficult it is to get help should you need assistance with your vacuum cleaner.
Look for brands that offer customer support through email, phone calls, or live chat on their website.
Build Quality
You want a sturdy vacuum cleaner that will last you many years without any problems.
Look for one made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or aluminum, so it won’t rust over time and become damaged quickly by dust and dirt particles in the air.
HEPA Vacuum For Lead Dust Removal FAQ

Below are some commonly asked questions about lead dust.
Does A Hepa Filter Remove Lead Dust?
Yes, a HEPA filter can remove lead dust. However, you also need to know that not all vacuum cleaners come equipped with this kind of filtration system, so make sure before buying one that it’s right for you.
How Do You Vacuum Lead Dust?
Vacuuming lead dust is just as simple as vacuuming any other kind of dust. Make sure to use a vacuum cleaner that has a powerful motor and a HEPA filter for the best results.
Be sure to empty out the dust receptacle often, so it doesn’t overflow.
How Do You Identify Lead Dust?
Lead dust isn’t visible to the naked eye. It also doesn’t smell. So without a proper test from an expert, you cannot identify lead dust on your own.
How Toxic Is Lead Dust?
Continued exposure to lead dust in high levels can lead to health problems including brain damage, miscarriages, and even death.
Getting a good HEPA vacuum designed for lead dust is a good way to protect yourself and your family from long-term exposure.
What Is The Best Vacuum for Lead Dust?
The best vacuum for lead dust should have a HEPA filter, powerful suction power, large capacity to hold more dirt before emptying it out on its own.
Look at the reviews of other models before buying one, so you’ll have a better idea of what to look for.
Is A Hepa Filter Necessary?
Yes, the best vacuums for lead dust have a HEPA filter.
This is important because it can trap tiny particles like lead from getting into the air when you clean up after yourself or someone else with a vacuum cleaner without one of these filters installed inside their machine.
Final Thoughts
Lead dust can be very toxic to humans and animals, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions when cleaning up after a lead-based paint spill.
Get a good HEPA vacuum cleaner with all the necessary features to make the job easier and faster.
Remember to always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using.
Looking For Vacuum Guides?
If you’re looking for more vacuums resources, consider checking out our other posts on vacuums.
- How To Stop Static Electricity While Vacuuming
- Can I Vacuum A Cowhide Rug?
- Can I Vacuum Around My Bunny?
- Can I Vacuum Baking Soda?
- Do Dyson Vacuums Have HEPA Filters?

(Author)
Irene Batres is eager to help others create an indoor allergen-free home. She has years of experience testing out air purifiers, dehumidifiers, and other products designed to help with indoor air quality. Learn more about me.