Abstract: An operator driven, ridable carpet cleaning machine is provided with a pressurized cleaning solution spray applicator located forward of a counter-rotating pair of cylindrical brushes and a pair of articulating vacuum shoes. The pressurized spray enables the delivery of sufficient cleaning solution, with agitation of the soft, carpeted surface enhanced by the counter-rotating brushes. Articulation of the vacuum shoes enables them to remain in close contact with the carpeting, maximizing the removal of the applied cleaning solution.