The disclosed invention utilizes deformable gaskets configured to form a seal which slides through the grooves and across the tops of escalator and travelator treads and using evacuation cleaning components as either a complete escalator and travelator tread cleaning machine or an accessory device configured to operate with an existing vacuum carpet evacuation apparatus. The disclosed gaskets in combination with evacuation and spray nozzle manifolds connected by escalator and travelator groove passages form a basic embodiment of the disclosed tread engagement assembly. In certain embodiments, the disclosed apparatus utilizes certain components of carpet evacuation equipment in combination with the disclosed v for cleaning escalator and travelator treads, including both the risers and treads of the escalator and travelator.