I hate hate hate the machines. They are so loud it drives me bonkers. This thing is almost silent, a fraction of the cost, and does as good, or even a better job. I don't think you lose as much as you do in the machine. Sure, you have to do some physical labor, and that may hurt your arms by the 10th unit or so, but it is worth it. Hey - it is even some exercise!You use it by putting your stuff in the zippered pouch and rotating it back and forth while lifting it up and down. I do it for about 20 rotations (or 3 minutes or so). On the bottom, there is a screen and another zipper beneath it. After each unit, you unzip the bottom zipper and watch the trim fall out! Super easy to use - if you are confused, there are youtube videos. Then you just have to clean up what comes out of the bag and you are good to go!This bag is well worth the cost - it will save you hours of labor, does not require electricity and does not beat up your product.