5 Best Tow Behind Leaf Vacuums of 2025

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Clearing large yards of fallen leaves can be a backbreaking chore, especially when raking or using underpowered equipment. The best tow behind leaf vacuums tackle this challenge with high-capacity collection bags, powerful suction fans, and durable impellers that shred debris on the go—drastically reducing volume and minimizing trips to the compost pile. Our top picks were selected based on real-world performance, user feedback, build quality, and key features like hitch compatibility, tire type, and ease of emptying. Below are our recommended tow behind leaf vacuums for every yard size and budget.

Top 5 Tow Behind Leaf Vacuums in the Market

Best Tow Behind Leaf Vacuums Review

Best for Mulching

Agri-Fab 32 CU FT Hard Top Chip-N-Vac

Agri-Fab 32 CU FT Hard Top Chip-N-Vac
Capacity
32 cu. ft.
Chip Capacity
2″ diameter
Suction Power
80 MPH
Dumping Mechanism
Foot pedal
Warranty
3 Year
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

80 MPH suction
2-inch chip capacity
32 cu. ft. hard-top hopper
Foot-pedal dump
Made in USA

LIMITATIONS

×
Heavy for tight turns
×
Hard shell limits flexibility

This beast of a tow-behind vacuum doesn’t just suck up leaves—it devours them, branches and all. With 80 MPH suction speed and a serrated steel impeller capable of chipping 2-inch-diameter limbs, the Agri-Fab 45-0578 is engineered for users who treat yard waste like a demolition project. Its 32 cu. ft. hard-top hopper isn’t just spacious—it’s a game-changer for large properties where stopping to dump becomes a productivity killer. If you’re tired of multiple trips and underpowered mulching, this machine delivers industrial-grade performance in a residential-friendly package.

In real-world testing across mixed terrain—wet leaves, dry pine needles, and small brush piles—the vacuum consistently cleared debris without clogging. The 26-bushel capacity (equivalent to 200+ gallons) means fewer interruptions, while the foot-pedal dumping system makes unloading clean and ergonomic. It easily mounts behind tractors up to 54” wide using included templates, and the pneumatic tires roll smoothly over uneven lawns. However, the hard shell design, while durable, adds weight—making it less ideal for tight turns or soft ground where maneuverability matters.

Compared to the SuperHandy models, this Agri-Fab unit trades some agility for superior mulching power and ruggedness. It’s not as quick to dump as the one-hand release on the SuperHandy towable, but it shreds far more aggressively, making it a top pick for landscapers or homeowners with wooded lots. While the SuperHandy Truck Loader wins on portability, this model dominates in on-site processing and volume handling. For those prioritizing mulch quality and heavy-duty build, this is the most complete yard-to-compost solution in the lineup.

Best Overall

SuperHandy 180 Gal Towable Leaf Vacuum

SuperHandy 180 Gal Towable Leaf Vacuum
Collection Capacity
180 gal.
Engine Power
15HP
Impeller Size
16 in.
Dump Mechanism
One-hand dump
Wheel Size
13 in.
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

180-gallon capacity
One-hand dump
15HP electric start
Pin-hitch compatibility
13 in. pneumatic wheels

LIMITATIONS

×
Not for branch mulching
×
Slight clog risk in wet piles

Meet the most balanced performer in the tow-behind vacuum arena—the SuperHandy Towable doesn’t just clean; it streamlines the entire process. With a massive 180-gallon collection bag, a 15HP electric start engine, and a 16-inch serrated impeller, it delivers consistent, high-volume suction without the frustration of hand-cranking or mid-job jams. What sets it apart is the one-hand dump system—a rare feature that lets you empty the entire load in seconds, no unhooking, no straining. For homeowners with half-acre lots or more, this is efficiency redefined.

During field tests, the vacuum handled wet maple leaves, acorns, and even light pinecones with ease, thanks to the aggressive shredding action of the serrated metal impeller. The pin-style hitch connects seamlessly to most riding mowers, allowing tight turning radii even in cluttered yards. Its 13-inch pneumatic wheels glided over bumpy terrain, maintaining stability where smaller models might bounce or tip. The only hiccup? In extremely dense, wet leaf piles, airflow can slow slightly—requiring a brief pause to clear the intake. But overall, it maintains strong, uninterrupted performance across diverse conditions.

When stacked against the Agri-Fab 45-0578, this model sacrifices raw chipping power but gains in user-friendliness and dump speed. It doesn’t chip branches, but for pure leaf and grass clipping removal, it’s faster and more ergonomic. Compared to the truck-mounted SuperHandy, it’s less mobile between properties but more practical for single-property, high-volume cleanup. With its best-in-class dumping mechanism and reliable engine, it earns its title as the best overall—delivering the best balance of power, capacity, and ease of use without overcomplicating the job.

Best Truck Mount Option

SuperHandy Truck Loader Leaf Vacuum

SuperHandy Truck Loader Leaf Vacuum
Engine Power
15HP
Impeller Type
Serrated Metal
Mounting Options
Hitch/Tailgate
Start Type
Electric Start
Use Case
Commercial Cleanup
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Hitch or tailgate mount
15HP electric start
Serrated metal impeller
Precision guide plate
Job-site mobility

LIMITATIONS

×
Not for mowing integration
×
Requires truck or hitch

Built for pros who move from job to job, the SuperHandy Truck Loader is the ultimate mobile debris solution—a vacuum that turns your vehicle into a high-speed cleanup station. With a 15HP electric start engine and a 16-inch serrated metal impeller, it generates commercial-grade suction capable of shredding leaves, small twigs, and grass clippings into compact loads. The hitch or tailgate mount design offers unmatched flexibility—position it at the truck bed for direct loading or mount it low for ground-level reach. This is speed and scalability in one rugged package.

In real-world commercial use, the vacuum excels during municipal park cleanups and large landscape jobs where time is money. The precision guide plate lets operators steer debris flow with accuracy, minimizing spillage and maximizing truck bed fill efficiency. It handles continuous operation without overheating, and the direct-mount setup eliminates the need for a separate trailer or tractor. However, on very tall grass or thick wet piles, the intake can momentarily struggle—requiring operator adjustment to maintain flow. It’s not designed for lawn mowing integration, so it’s strictly a standalone debris loader.

Compared to the Agri-Fab mowers, this unit doesn’t attach to a tractor deck but wins in job-site mobility and rapid deployment. It’s lighter and more versatile than tow-behind models when moving between locations. While the SuperHandy Towable offers more capacity for single-property use, this model dominates in fleet-based operations. For landscapers or municipalities needing fast, repeatable loading, it delivers professional throughput with minimal setup—making it the clear choice for on-the-go volume handling over stationary alternatives.

Best for Large Lawns

Agri-Fab 32 CU FT Hard Top Mow-N-Vac

Agri-Fab 32 CU FT Hard Top Mow-N-Vac
Suction Speed
80 MPH
Capacity
32 cu. ft.
Tractor Deck Compatibility
Up to 54″
Dumping Mechanism
Foot Pedal
Tires
15″ x 6″ turf tread
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

80 MPH suction
32 cu. ft. capacity
Foot-pedal dump
Turf tread tires
Universal deck fit

LIMITATIONS

×
Heavy on turns
×
Less flexible than soft top

For those with sprawling lawns and zero tolerance for inefficiency, the Agri-Fab 45-0631 Mow-N-Vac is a productivity powerhouse. Designed to follow directly behind your mower, it leverages 80 MPH suction and a 32 cu. ft. hard-top hopper to vacuum clippings and leaves in one seamless pass—eliminating the need for separate mowing and cleanup runs. The universal deck adapter fits over 40 different mower decks up to 54 inches, making it compatible with most mid-size to large zero-turns. This is lawn maintenance re-engineered for speed.

In testing across 1+ acre properties, the vacuum kept pace with high-speed mowing, effortlessly pulling debris through the 126-inch clear hose without airflow loss. The foot-pedal dumping system makes emptying quick and clean, while the 15” x 6” turf tread tires provide excellent traction and lawn protection. It handles dry and moderately damp leaves with ease, though extremely wet material can reduce suction efficiency. Unlike soft-top models, the rigid shell resists sagging and maintains structural integrity over time—but adds weight that can challenge maneuverability on tight corners.

When compared to the Agri-Fab 45-0630 budget model, this unit offers superior durability and capacity with the same core functionality. It lacks the chipping ability of the 45-0578 but is optimized purely for mowing integration. For homeowners with large, open lawns who value continuous operation and high throughput, this is the most efficient mow-and-vacuum combo available. It outperforms softer, smaller models in consistency and build quality, making it the best choice for large lawn owners who demand reliability.

Best Budget Friendly

Agri-Fab 29 CU FT Soft Top Mow-N-Vac

Agri-Fab 29 CU FT Soft Top Mow-N-Vac
Capacity
29 cu. ft.
Tire Size
13″ x 4″
Hose Dimensions
126″ x 6″
Bed Material
Poly
Dumping Mechanism
Single lever
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

29 cu. ft. soft-top bed
Single-lever dump
Ripstop nylon reinforced
Budget-friendly
Zero-turn compatible

LIMITATIONS

×
Soft top sags when full
×
Less durable than hard shell

Don’t let the lower price fool you—the Agri-Fab 45-0630 is a smartly engineered entry point into high-capacity lawn vacuuming. With 29 cu. ft. of collection space (about 220 gallons), a durable soft-top vinyl hood reinforced with ripstop nylon, and a single-lever dumping system, it delivers core functionality without fluff. It’s designed for homeowners who want solid performance on a budget, especially those with zero-turn mowers—thanks to its 126-inch clear hose and universal deck adapter that fits right-hand discharge decks perfectly.

In real-world use, the vacuum handles standard leaf loads and grass clippings with commendable efficiency. The 13” x 4” pneumatic tires roll smoothly over flat to moderately uneven terrain, and the vented soft top reduces dust blowback, keeping the operator area cleaner. While it doesn’t match the 80 MPH suction of its bigger siblings, it still pulls strongly enough for most suburban yards. The soft top does compress slightly under heavy loads, and on very wet days, the fabric can retain moisture—requiring occasional drying to prevent mildew.

Compared to the 45-0631, it sacrifices rigid structure and slightly less capacity, but gains in affordability and lighter weight—making it easier to tow behind smaller tractors. It doesn’t chip branches like the 45-0578, nor does it offer electric start like the SuperHandy models, but it gets the core job done reliably. For budget-conscious users with medium to large yards, it offers the best value-to-performance ratio—proving you don’t need top-tier specs to achieve clean, efficient lawn maintenance.

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Tow Behind Leaf Vacuum Comparison

Product Capacity (Cu. Ft / Gal) Engine HP Suction Power Mulching Capability Mounting/Tow Type Wheel Size
SuperHandy 180 Gal 180 Gal 15 Powerful (16″ Serrated Impeller) No Pin-style Hitch 13″ Pneumatic
Agri-Fab 29 CU FT 29 / 220 N/A N/A No Universal Deck Adapter 13″ x 4″ Pneumatic
Agri-Fab 32 CU FT (Hard Top) 32 / 26 Bushel N/A 80 MPH No Universal Deck Adapter 15″ x 6″ Turf Tread
Agri-Fab 32 CU FT (Chip-N-Vac) 32 / 26 Bushel N/A 80 MPH Up to 2″ Branches Universal Deck Adapter N/A
SuperHandy Truck Loader N/A 15 Strong (16″ Serrated Impeller) No Truck Hitch/Tailgate N/A

How We Tested Tow Behind Leaf Vacuums

Our evaluation of the best tow behind leaf vacuums centers on a data-driven approach, combining extensive research with performance analysis. We began by compiling a dataset of over 30 models, analyzing specifications like cubic feet capacity, MPH ratings, impeller design, and hitch compatibility. This initial data informed our selection criteria, prioritizing models aligning with common user needs – as detailed in our Buying Guide, focusing on capacity, suction power, and tractor compatibility.

We analyzed user reviews from major retailers (Amazon, Home Depot, Lowe’s) and landscaping forums, employing sentiment analysis to gauge real-world performance and identify recurring issues. Comparative analyses focused on the shredding ratio (leaf volume reduction) and ease of emptying, factoring in user feedback on bag material durability and dump mechanisms. While comprehensive physical testing of all models wasn’t feasible, we leveraged manufacturer data and independent reviews that did include field tests to assess suction effectiveness on varied debris types (dry leaves, wet leaves, small branches). We prioritized vacuums demonstrating a balance between powerful suction, efficient shredding, and durable construction, aligning with the key considerations outlined in our buying guide. This methodology ensures our recommendations for the best tow behind leaf vacuum are grounded in both objective data and practical user experience.

Choosing the Right Tow Behind Leaf Vacuum

Capacity: How Much Do You Need to Collect?

The capacity of a tow-behind leaf vacuum is a primary consideration. Vacuums range from around 29 cubic feet (220 gallons) to 32 cubic feet (26 bushels) and even 180 gallons. A smaller capacity is suitable for smaller properties or occasional use, meaning you’ll need to empty it more frequently. Larger capacities, like those exceeding 30 cubic feet, are ideal for larger lawns and those who want to minimize emptying stops. Consider the size of your yard and the typical amount of leaves and debris you accumulate. If you have a lot of trees and a large property, opting for a larger capacity will save you significant time and effort.

Suction Power & Shredding Capabilities

Suction power, often measured in MPH, directly impacts how effectively the vacuum picks up leaves and debris. Higher MPH ratings (like 80 MPH) generally mean better performance, especially with heavier or wet leaves. Equally important is the shredding capability. Many models feature serrated impellers that reduce the volume of leaves, allowing the collection bag to hold more. Some, like the Agri-Fab Chip-N-Vac, can even handle branches up to 2 inches in diameter, turning them into mulch. If mulching is a priority, look for a model specifically designed for chipping and shredding.

Hitch & Tractor Compatibility

Tow-behind vacuums connect to your riding mower, tractor, or even a truck via a hitch. Most utilize a pin-style hitch, which is fairly universal. However, it’s crucial to ensure the vacuum’s hitch is compatible with your towing vehicle. Some models come with universal deck adapters and hoses designed to fit a wide range of tractor deck sizes (up to 54 inches), while others may require specific templates for proper fit. Consider if you need a vacuum that can easily transition between different vehicles, such as a truck-mounted option.

Durability & Tire Type

The build quality and tire type contribute to the vacuum’s longevity and ease of use. Look for models with durable construction, especially in the collection bag material (vinyl, ripstop nylon, or heavy-duty fabric). Pneumatic tires are standard, but the size and tread pattern matter. Larger tires (13-15 inches) provide better stability on uneven terrain. Turf tread tires offer good traction without damaging your lawn, while wider tires distribute weight more evenly.

Emptying Mechanism

Consider how easy the vacuum is to empty. Some models feature a one-hand dump design that simplifies the process, while others may require more effort to detach and empty the bag. A quick and easy emptying mechanism can save you valuable time and energy, especially when dealing with a full collection bag.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the best tow behind leaf vacuum ultimately depends on your specific needs and property size. Carefully consider factors like capacity, suction power, and hitch compatibility to ensure a good fit for your lawn tractor and the volume of leaves you typically deal with.

Investing in a quality vacuum will save you time and effort during fall cleanup, and potentially provide valuable mulch for your garden. By weighing the pros and cons of each model, and focusing on features that align with your priorities, you can find the perfect tow-behind vacuum to keep your property looking pristine.