I think that your problem is that it is impossible to mop or sponge up the cleaning fluid completely from the carpet. My Vax 3-in-1 works a treat just with cold water, sucking the fluid out until it is virtually dry. I dont use it for the whole carpet, just stains and floor tiles. They are relativley cheap and it comes out regularly when someone spills a glas of red wine or the dog pees on the carpet!