Rigid WD1273 Traditional Corded Wet Dry Vacuum, 12-Gallon

Last updated: January 18, 2022

Rigid WD1273 Traditional Corded Wet Dry Vacuum, 12-Gallon
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We looked at the top Wet Dry Vacuums and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Wet Dry Vacuum you should buy.

Overall Take

In our analysis of 57 expert reviews, the Rigid Traditional Corded Wet Dry Vacuum, 12-Gallon placed 14th when we looked at the top 18 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

The RIDGID 12 Gal. NXT wet dry vac was built for pros ready to take their projects to the next level. With more power, enhanced durability and an advanced design specifically engineered for the pro user, this high-performance vac is part of the most powerful line of wet dry vacs RIDGID has ever made. At 5.0 peak HP, this vac delivers the power required for tough cleanups. Its redesigned scroll technology gives the RIDGID NXT vac an increase in power, suction and lift.

Expert Reviews


What experts liked

A built in drain for liquid draining
The massive 12-gallon WD1270 also comes with a car-cleaning nozzle, along with the standard two extension wands, utility nozzle, and wet-cleanup nozzle.
Throughout a ten-year construction career, this is the vac that I saw on job sites and personally used the most often, and it’s the one I’ve owned at home for years.
The Ridgid Shop Vac has the features you would expect from a shop vac 15ft electrical cord, 7ft hose and a number of accessories that all store on board the vacuum unit.
Our favorite thing about this vacum is the hose storage.

What experts didn't like

The paper filters fill up too quickly along with the pleated filter
Now if you are using this as a vacuum for your saw, or other power tools, battery is probably not the best for you. I use this for shop and car clean up, so mobility is important. Eliminating the need to plug in to the wall would set this tool over the top for me.

Our Expert Consultant

Vicki Liston 
Home Improvement Expert

Vicki Liston writes, produces, and narrates “On The Fly…DIY,” an award-winning home improvement and DIY show of unique project tutorials for the casual DIY’er.

Home improvement and all things DIY have been Liston’s passion since she bought her first house in 2007 and she started making video blogs in 2014. She’s performed hundreds of DIY projects, from small ones to major, wall-smashing renovations and can teach you how to make a trendy DIY barn door for cheap. The proceeds earned from “On The Fly…DIY” are donated to no-kill animal shelters and rescue organizations.

View our Wet Dry Vacuum buying guide for in-depth advice and recommendations.

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