It is so simple to use, it seems like it is not working, BUT IT IS. After just a few swipes across the floor, I checked the dirty water container and could not believe the dirt that this had picked up. Works extremely well on hardwoods and the drying feature is so important on wood, that makes this definitely a way to go. As to tile, the brushes don't do a very good job on the grout and Hoover does recommend their tile and grout cleaner, so that may be something to try. Another drawback is that the front of the machine is just under a foot wide and there are no on-board tools, so that if you need to get into smaller spaces, like around a toilet or sink, you will still need the bucket and mop.