I have a Hoover SteamVac with the spinning brushes but it is too bulky and too heavy to use on the stairs, and the hand tool really doesn't cut it.

Any suggestions for how to get that 2-3 inch area at the edge of the step clean? It's even a pain with the vacuum.

I am going to try Capture brand powder and maybe the booster spray, but it's so much rubbing etc. I have used it on the treads to get out spots and it works, but so hard to do edges.

Do pros do a better job on the stairs? What do they use that is any different than a steamvac or powder that gets rubbed in? I would think most tools are tough to use on the edges.

The best thing I ever did is put hardwood in the upstairs hallway. I don't get the dreaded dirty/worn down track or lint. It is noisier though, so I'm glad I didn't do the stairs.