If you have badly soiled carpets this machine is not for you. I used a commercial one a few years ago and the results were very good. This machine has the benefit of being compact for storage, easy to assemble and use. I think the idea is that you use it 3 to 4 times a year. On the carpets I tested the results were however very acceptable. I didn't use the pre spot, and had I done so the results may well have been better. I find the best application is to apply the cleaning solution in the longest strip possible, then to extract the water. To apply you pull the machine backwards whilst pulling the trigger, then push forward which sucks up the water. A slow application and removal gives best results. The machine is about twice as heavy as a vacuum cleaner. Water extraction is good,. For best results a thorough vacuum prior to cleaning is recommended, and when the carpet is dry, usually 6 hours later, a quick run over with the vacuum brings up the pile. I havn't used the machine on soft furnishings yet, but think that the results would be very good. If you have a steam cleaner as well I would suggest tackling stubborn spots with that, then follow up with the Vax. Overall this is a good system for an average home if used regularly. If you need a lender of last resort, hire an industrial cleaner.