We have a Hoover Steam Cleaner and couldn't survive without it.
It does the job when I need to do it - which is a lot of times when I least expect it. We just used it tonight when DS4 dropped a bowl of strawberries in the hallway. Worked like a charm.
Just a couple of weeks ago, I had the carpet professionally cleaned. After a while it needs more than my machine can provide. I just learned when I have a problem area I'm trying to clean, not to use any solution -- just hot water. I was told that once the soapy solution gets in the spot, if it doesn't come out, it will stain.