9 Best Dust Bags for Ridgid Shop Vacs (November 2026)

The best Ridgid shop vac dust bags include the RIDGID 23743 High Efficiency Dry Pickup Dust Bags for original Ridgid fit, the bluemorpho Pack 6 Vacuum Bags For Craftsman for large Craftsman and Ridgid tanks, and the SpaceTent 5 Pack VF3502 Replacement for Rigid for Size A model matching.

On this page (14 sections)

1. The best Ridgid shop vac dust bags by tank size
2. 1. RIDGID: Best for original Ridgid fit
3. 2. bluemorpho: Best for large Craftsman and Ridgid tanks
4. 3. SpaceTent VF3502: Best for Size A model matching
5. 4. isinlive 12 Pack: Best for frequent dry cleanup
6. 5. POWERTEC VF3503: Best for 6 to 9 gallon tanks
7. 6. POWERTEC 23743: Best for a 6-bag Size A supply
8. 7. ANBOO: Best for a filter and bag bundle
9. 8. SpaceTent VF3501: Best for compact Ridgid vacuums
10. 9. isinlive VF3501: Best for a 20-bag compact-tank supply
11. How to match Ridgid shop vac dust bags to your tank
12. How to choose between 2, 5, 6, 12 and 20 bags
13. How to dispose of a full Ridgid shop vac dust bag
14. Verdict: which Ridgid shop vac dust bags should you buy?

The best Ridgid shop vac dust bags for most 12 to 16 gallon vacuums are the RIDGID 23743 bags, while smaller tanks need VF3501 or VF3503 sizes. Match the bag to your vacuum model and inlet design before ordering.

A dust bag keeps dry debris contained inside the tank and makes disposal easier. The right bag also depends on the tank range, bag family, fitting diameter and whether your vacuum has a nozzle or a hose connection in the top.

For more ways to collect dry debris, compare these best wet dry vacuum attachments. If you need a broader comparison across brands, our guide to best shop vacuum bags covers other common bag types.

Our picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for original Ridgid fit

   RIDGID 23743 High Efficiency Dry Pickup Dust Bags

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for large Craftsman and Ridgid tanks

   bluemorpho Pack 6 Vacuum Bags For Craftsman

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for Size A model matching

   SpaceTent 5 Pack VF3502 Replacement for Rigid

   9.5/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

4. 4

   isinlive 12 Pack 23743 VF3502 Vacuum Bags

   Best for frequent dry cleanup
   Check it
5. 5

   POWERTEC VF3503 Size B Shop Vac Bags

   Best for 6 to 9 gallon tanks
   Check it
6. 6

   POWERTEC 23743 VF3502 Size A Shop Vacuum

   Best for a 6-bag Size A supply
   Check it
7. 7

   ANBOO VF4000 Replacement Filter for Ridgid Shop

   Best for a filter and bag bundle
   Check it
8. 8

   SpaceTent 6 Pack VF3501 Replacement for Rigid

   Best for compact Ridgid vacuums
   Check it
9. 9

   isinlive 23738 VF3501 Vacuum Bags for Ridgid

   Best for a 20-bag compact-tank supply
   Check it

The best Ridgid shop vac dust bags by tank size

The best Ridgid shop vac dust bags are the ones that match both your vacuum's gallon range and its inlet design. The 12 to 16 gallon group uses VF3502 or 23743-style bags, while smaller tanks use VF3501 or VF3503.

Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for. We checked the stated model lists, pack sizes, dry-use limits and fit details for each pick.

1. RIDGID: Best for original Ridgid fit

1

RIDGID 23743 High Efficiency Dry Pickup Dust Bags: Best for original Ridgid fit

9.7/10Our score

• 2-pack
• 12 to 16 gallon wet/dry vacuums
• Dry fine-particle pickup
• Designed for listed Ridgid models

These original RIDGID 23743 bags suit owners of compatible 12 to 16 gallon vacuums who want a direct model-specific option for dry fine particles.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Original RIDGID model
• Works with listed 12 to 16 gallon vacuums
• Disposable design

Cons

• Only 2 bags per pack
• Not for every Ridgid model

The RIDGID 23743 is the strongest starting point when you own a compatible 12 to 16 gallon Ridgid wet/dry vacuum. It is a 2-pack of disposable dry pickup dust bags designed for fine particles in larger vacuums.

The stated compatible models include WD14500, WD1850, WD18510, WD1950 and WD1956. The broader model information also includes RV2400HF, WD1270, WD1450, WD1680 and WD1851, so compare your exact model number before fitting a bag.

This option is suited to drywall dust and other fine dry particles. It also supports both wet/dry vacuum models and dry pickup use, but the bag itself is for dry collection.

The disposable design helps you remove collected dust without emptying a dirty tank by hand. A 2-bag pack makes sense for occasional cleanup or for keeping one spare available.

Choose RIDGID when direct model matching matters most. It is less convenient for frequent projects if you want a larger pack.

2. bluemorpho: Best for large Craftsman and Ridgid tanks

2

bluemorpho Pack 6 Vacuum Bags For Craftsman: Best for large Craftsman and Ridgid tanks

9.6/10Our score

• 6-pack
• 16 to 20 gallon Craftsman fit
• Ridgid 16 gallon fit
• 3 in fitting diameter

The bluemorpho pack fits compatible Craftsman 16 to 20 gallon vacuums and Ridgid 16 gallon shop vacs, with a 3 in fitting diameter.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 6 bags in the pack
• Kraft paper construction
• 90-day warranty

Cons

• Compatibility excludes some Craftsman models
• Not a general fit for every Ridgid tank

The bluemorpho pack fits listed Craftsman 16 and 20 gallon shop vacuums and Ridgid 16 gallon shop vacuums. It includes 6 disposable kraft paper bags with a 3 in fitting diameter.

The compatible Craftsman models include CMXEVBE17595, CMXEVBE17596, CMXEVBE17607 and CMXEVBE17656. It also covers the Craftsman XSP 16 gallon and XSP 20 gallon groups named in the product information, but it does not work with the listed CMXEVBCV1660L model.

The 44-4/5 in length and 17-4/5 in height give the bag a large spread-out shape for big tanks. Measure the inlet and check the model family instead of relying on the gallon number alone.

These bags focus on easy disposal and a cleaner tank during dry and wet shop vacuum work. The bag is a replacement part, so confirm that your vacuum uses this style before opening the pack.

Choose bluemorpho if you need several bags for a compatible 16 gallon Ridgid or larger Craftsman vacuum. Skip it when your tank is smaller or your model appears in the incompatibility notes.

3. SpaceTent VF3502: Best for Size A model matching

3

SpaceTent 5 Pack VF3502 Replacement for Rigid: Best for Size A model matching

9.5/10Our score

• 5-pack
• VF3502 Size A
• 12 to 16 gallon Ridgid fit
• Dry pickup only

SpaceTent's VF3502 Size A bags cover many listed 12 to 16 gallon Ridgid models, but the nozzle requirement and exclusions make model checking essential.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 5 bags per pack
• Broad listed model range
• Double-layer construction

Cons

• Dry pickup only
• Does not fit top hose-connection vacuums

SpaceTent's VF3502 Size A bags fit many listed 12, 14 and 16 gallon Ridgid vacuums. The 5-pack measures 36-3/5 in long by 15-3/5 in high when spread out and uses a 3 in fitting diameter.

Compatible models include Ridgid HD1200, HD1280, HD1400, HD1600, HD1640, HD1800, WD1450, WD1680, WD1851 and WD1956. The product information also lists several RV, RT and MOB model numbers.

The fit has clear limits. These bags are for vacuums with a nozzle, not vacuums with a hose connection in the top, and they do not fit the listed WD12000, WD12450, WD12460, WD1250, WD12780 or WD1280 models.

The double-layer construction combines FSC-certified virgin woodpulp paper with an inner polypropylene composite layer. SpaceTent states that the bags are for dry, non-hazardous materials only.

Choose this pack when your model appears in the compatible list and you want 5 Size A bags. Do not use it for wet waste or for a model in the exclusion list.

4. isinlive 12 Pack: Best for frequent dry cleanup

4

isinlive 12 Pack 23743 VF3502 Vacuum Bags: Best for frequent dry cleanup

9.3/10Our score

• 12-pack
• VF3502 replacement
• 12 to 16 gallon Ridgid fit
• Rubber sealing collar

This 12-pack suits frequent dry cleanup with compatible 12 to 16 gallon Ridgid vacuums. Its model exclusions and nozzle requirement still need a careful match.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Largest 12 to 16 gallon pack here
• Double-layer material
• Rubber sealing collar

Cons

• Dry debris only
• Not compatible with listed excluded models

The isinlive VF3502-12 pack gives you 12 bags for compatible 12 to 16 gallon Ridgid vacuums. It uses an outer paper layer, an inner polypropylene layer and a rubber sealing collar.

The listed fit includes HD1200, HD1280, HD1400, HD1402C, HD1600, HD1640, HD1800, WD1450, WD1680, WD1851 and WD1956. It also names several RV, RT and MOB models in the same tank range.

The model exclusions matter as much as the included models. These bags do not fit the listed WD12000, WD12450, WD12460, WD1250, WD12780, WD1280, WD1625, WD16350, WD16360, WD1637, WD16650 or WD17351 models.

The rubber collar is designed to seal around the inlet during replacement. These bags are for dry debris only, so remove the bag before using the vacuum for water pickup.

Choose this pack for regular drywall, sawdust, sand, dirt or household dry-debris cleanup. Its 12-bag count is less useful if you only use your shop vac a few times a year.

5. POWERTEC VF3503: Best for 6 to 9 gallon tanks

5

POWERTEC VF3503 Size B Shop Vac Bags: Best for 6 to 9 gallon tanks

9.1/10Our score

• 6-pack
• VF3503 Size B
• 5 to 10 gallon model coverage
• 2-ply material

POWERTEC VF3503 Size B bags are the right direction for smaller Ridgid tanks, including listed 5, 6, 9 and 10 gallon models.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Fits smaller listed vacuums
• 6 replacement bags
• 2-ply construction

Cons

• Not for 12 to 16 gallon tanks
• Model matching remains necessary

POWERTEC VF3503 Size B bags are made for smaller Ridgid wet/dry vacuums. The pack includes 6 replacement bags for listed 5, 6, 9 and 10 gallon models, plus the Workshop WS32090F2 vacuum bag.

Compatible Ridgid models include WD5500, VAC5000, WD5000, WD55000, WD6425, WD0670, HD0900, HD09001, HD0918, WD0970, WD09700, WD0970M0, WD0975, WD1060 and WD1022.

The 2-ply material uses paper and meltblown nonwoven layers. These bags are intended to capture dry debris such as drywall dust, sawdust and dirt in homes, garages and worksites.

The key buying rule is size family. VF3503 Size B is not the same as the VF3502 Size A bags used by many 12 to 16 gallon Ridgid vacuums.

Choose POWERTEC VF3503 when your model belongs to the smaller tank list. It is a poor match for a 12 or 16 gallon vacuum simply because the bag is made for a different size group.

6. POWERTEC 23743: Best for a 6-bag Size A supply

6

POWERTEC 23743 VF3502 Size A Shop Vacuum: Best for a 6-bag Size A supply

8.9/10Our score

• 6-pack
• VF3502 Size A
• 12 to 16 gallon fit
• 2-ply material

This POWERTEC option gives compatible 12 to 16 gallon Ridgid owners 6 Size A bags, with a 3 in fitting diameter and a broad model list.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 6 bags per pack
• 2-ply material
• Fits many listed Ridgid models

Cons

• Only for compatible Size A models
• Not for smaller VF3501 or VF3503 tanks

POWERTEC's 23743 VF3502 Size A pack includes 6 bags for listed 12 to 16 gallon Ridgid vacuums. Each bag uses 2-ply material and has a 3 in fitting diameter.

The compatible list includes HD1200, HD1280, HD1400, HD1600, HD1640, HD1800, WD1450, WD1680, WD1850, WD1851, WD1950 and WD1956. It also names several Ridgid RV, RT and MOB models.

The stated bag size is 35 in long by 15-3/4 in high. Those dimensions help you compare the bag with the space inside your tank, but the model number and inlet design still decide compatibility.

The disposable bags are made for dry debris such as drywall dust, sawdust and dirt. Use the cartridge filter and the bag according to your vacuum instructions, and remove the bag before wet pickup.

Choose this POWERTEC pack when you want 6 Size A bags and your model is in the compatibility list. Do not confuse it with VF3501 Size C or VF3503 Size B.

7. ANBOO: Best for a filter and bag bundle

7

ANBOO VF4000 Replacement Filter for Ridgid Shop: Best for a filter and bag bundle

8.6/10Our score

• 2 VF4000 filters
• 3 VF3502 bags
• Washable and reusable filter
• Listed Ridgid model coverage

ANBOO combines 2 VF4000 filters with 3 VF3502 bags, making it useful when your Ridgid maintenance list includes both filtration and dry debris collection.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• Includes filters and bags
• Washable reusable filter
• Covers listed Ridgid models

Cons

• Only 3 bags
• Not a bag-only purchase

ANBOO combines 2 VF4000 standard wet/dry vacuum filters with 3 VF3502 bags. It suits buyers who need both replacement filtration and disposable bags for listed Ridgid models.

The VF4000 filter fit includes 6, 8, 9, 11, 12, 14 and 16 gallon Ridgid models such as WD06000, WD06700, WD08000, WD09700, WD70000, WD12800, WD14500, WD14800, WD16250, WD16300 and WD16360.

The VF3502 bags cover listed 12 to 16 gallon models including HD1200, HD1280, HD1400, HD1600, HD1800, WD1270, WD1450, WD1680, WD1851 and WD1956. Confirm your exact model because the filter and bag portions do not use the same full model list.

The filter is washable and reusable. The package includes 5 pieces total, made up of 2 filters and 3 bags.

Choose ANBOO when you need a maintenance bundle instead of bags alone. If your filter is still in good condition, a larger bag-only pack may suit your cleanup schedule better.

8. SpaceTent VF3501: Best for compact Ridgid vacuums

8

SpaceTent 6 Pack VF3501 Replacement for Rigid: Best for compact Ridgid vacuums

8.4/10Our score

• 6-pack
• VF3501 Size C
• 3 to 4.5 gallon fit
• Dry pickup only

SpaceTent VF3501 Size C bags suit listed 3 to 4.5 gallon Ridgid vacuums, plus the listed 6 gallon NXT models. They require a nozzle-style inlet.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 6 bags per pack
• Made for compact tanks
• Rubber sealing collar

Cons

• Dry pickup only
• Does not fit every 3 gallon model

SpaceTent VF3501 Size C bags fit listed 3 to 4.5 gallon Ridgid vacuums, along with the listed 6 gallon NXT models. The 6-pack has a 3 in fitting diameter and is for dry pickup only.

Compatible models include WD3050, VAC3000, HD0300, HD0318, WD40500, WD40700, VAC4000, WD4080, VAC4010, WD45500, WD45220, HD0600 and RT0600.

The product information excludes the WD0319 3 gallon vacuum. It also states that these bags fit vacuums with a nozzle, not models with a hose connection in the top.

The double-layer construction uses FSC-certified virgin woodpulp paper and an inner polypropylene composite layer. A rubber sealing collar is designed to reduce air or dust leaks during vacuuming and replacement.

Choose this pack for a compact Ridgid vacuum that uses VF3501 Size C. Do not use it as a substitute for the larger VF3502 bags.

9. isinlive VF3501: Best for a 20-bag compact-tank supply

9

isinlive 23738 VF3501 Vacuum Bags for Ridgid: Best for a 20-bag compact-tank supply

8.2/10Our score

• 20-pack
• VF3501 Size C
• 3 to 4.5 gallon fit
• Double-layer material

The isinlive 20-pack is aimed at compatible compact Ridgid vacuums using VF3501 bags. It suits frequent dry cleanup when the model match is confirmed.

See it on Amazon

Pros

• 20 bags in one pack
• Double-layer paper and non-woven material
• 90-day manufacturer warranty

Cons

• Only for listed compact models
• Not for larger Ridgid tanks

The isinlive 23738 VF3501 pack includes 20 bags for listed 3 to 4.5 gallon Ridgid vacuums. It is made for models including Ridgid 4000RV, 4500RV, HD0318, HD0600, RT0600, WD3050 and WD4080.

The bags use a paper outer layer and a non-woven layer. The stated design is for dry debris such as drywall dust, cement dust, hair, pet dander and sawdust.

A 20-pack suits frequent cleanup or buyers who want to keep replacement bags on hand. The secure seal is designed to make removal and disposal easier when the bag is full.

Check the model before ordering because this is a VF3501 Size C bag, not a VF3502 bag for many 12 to 16 gallon Ridgid vacuums. The 36.6 in by 7 in dimensions also reflect the compact bag shape.

Choose isinlive when your smaller vacuum is confirmed as a VF3501 match and you want the largest pack here. It is not suitable for larger Ridgid tanks.

How to match Ridgid shop vac dust bags to your tank

Match the bag family first, then confirm the exact model number and inlet design. Tank capacity narrows the choice, but it does not prove compatibility by itself.

Which Ridgid bag size fits 12 to 16 gallon vacuums?

VF3502 or 23743-style bags fit many 12 to 16 gallon Ridgid vacuums. The RIDGID 23743, SpaceTent VF3502, isinlive VF3502 and POWERTEC 23743 options all target this group, with different model lists and pack sizes.

Check whether your vacuum has a nozzle or a hose connection in the top. The SpaceTent and isinlive VF3502 data specifically exclude top hose-connection designs.

Which bags fit smaller Ridgid tanks?

VF3501 Size C bags cover listed 3 to 4.5 gallon models, while VF3503 Size B bags cover listed 5 to 10 gallon models. The model number is more useful than choosing by gallon capacity alone.

For compact vacuums, compare SpaceTent VF3501 with the isinlive 20-pack. For 5 to 10 gallon models, check POWERTEC VF3503 against your exact Ridgid model.

Can Ridgid shop vac dust bags collect water?

No. The bag options in this roundup are intended for dry debris or dry pickup, even when the vacuum itself is a wet/dry model.

Remove a dry dust bag before collecting water.

For the correct wet pickup process, read How to Use a Shop Vac for Water?. A foam filter may be part of the wet pickup setup, so review when to use foam filter on shop vac.

How do you keep a dust bag working well?

Install the collar squarely over the inlet, keep the bag from folding across the opening and replace it before it becomes packed with debris. A full or poorly seated bag can restrict airflow and release dust during removal.

The bag does not replace routine filter care. Follow How to Clean a Shop Vac Filter? for the cartridge filter, and read Can You Use a Shop Vac for Drywall Dust? before collecting fine construction dust.

How to choose between 2, 5, 6, 12 and 20 bags

Choose pack size by how often you collect dry debris and how much storage space you have. A 2-pack works for occasional use, while 12 or 20 bags make more sense for frequent cleanup when the model match is certain.

For a 12 to 16 gallon Ridgid vacuum, the RIDGID 23743 is the direct 2-bag choice. SpaceTent and POWERTEC offer 5- or 6-bag alternatives, while isinlive offers a 12-bag pack.

For compact VF3501 vacuums, SpaceTent gives you 6 bags and isinlive gives you 20. The larger pack reduces the chance of running out, but only if those bags fit your exact model.

Do not compare pack counts until you confirm the size family. Twenty VF3501 bags are not useful for a 16 gallon vacuum that requires VF3502 bags.

How to dispose of a full Ridgid shop vac dust bag

Turn off and unplug the vacuum before removing a full bag. Close or seal the bag as designed, lift it from the inlet without shaking it and place it in the correct waste container for the material collected.

Use these bags for non-hazardous dry materials only when the product information limits them that way. Do not reuse disposable dust bags, and do not use a dry dust bag for wet pickup.

For drywall and other fine dust, limit airborne mess by moving slowly and keeping the bag seated. If your job involves hazardous materials, follow the material's disposal rules instead of treating it like ordinary household dust.

Verdict: which Ridgid shop vac dust bags should you buy?

The RIDGID 23743 is the best Ridgid shop vac dust bag choice for compatible 12 to 16 gallon owners who want the original 23743 option. Choose SpaceTent or POWERTEC when you want more bags, and choose isinlive for a 12-bag supply.

Pick POWERTEC VF3503 for listed 5 to 10 gallon vacuums. Pick SpaceTent or isinlive VF3501 for compatible 3 to 4.5 gallon models, with isinlive best when you want 20 bags.

The final rule is simple: match the VF3501, VF3502 or VF3503 family, confirm the model number and check the inlet design before ordering. That process matters more than the bag count or material description.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

1. 1
   Best for original Ridgid fit

   RIDGID 23743 High Efficiency Dry Pickup Dust Bags

   9.7/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
2. 2
   Best for large Craftsman and Ridgid tanks

   bluemorpho Pack 6 Vacuum Bags For Craftsman

   9.6/10 our score

   See it on Amazon
3. 3
   Best for Size A model matching

   SpaceTent 5 Pack VF3502 Replacement for Rigid

   9.5/10 our score

   See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

What are the best Ridgid shop vac dust bags for 12 to 16 gallon vacuums?

The RIDGID 23743 is the best starting point for compatible 12 to 16 gallon Ridgid vacuums. SpaceTent VF3502, isinlive VF3502 and POWERTEC 23743 bags offer larger pack sizes, but each has its own model list and inlet requirements.

Confirm your exact Ridgid model before ordering.

What size bag fits a smaller Ridgid shop vac?

VF3501 Size C bags fit listed 3 to 4.5 gallon Ridgid vacuums, while VF3503 Size B bags cover listed 5 to 10 gallon models. Match the bag family to the exact model because gallon capacity alone does not guarantee a fit.

Also check whether the vacuum uses a nozzle or a top hose connection.

Can you use Ridgid dust bags for wet pickup?

No. The dust bags in this guide are for dry debris or dry pickup.

Remove the bag before collecting water, even when the vacuum itself is designed for wet and dry use.

Follow the vacuum instructions for wet pickup and use the appropriate filter setup.

How often should you replace a Ridgid shop vac dust bag?

Replace a disposable bag when it is full, airflow drops or the bag is close to restricting the inlet. Frequent drywall, sawdust or fine-dust cleanup may require more changes than occasional household debris pickup.

Keep spare bags available if your vacuum is used for regular projects.

Do all Ridgid shop vac bags use the same inlet?

No. Ridgid bags use different size families and model lists, and some options require a nozzle-style inlet.

Several VF3502 and VF3501 options specifically exclude vacuums with a hose connection in the top.

Check the model and inlet design before relying on the tank gallon number.