How to Clean Gutters Safely
Short answer: Set an extension ladder on firm, level ground with a stabilizer so it rests on the roof rather than the gutter, scoop debris into a bucket starting near the downspouts, then flush the gutters and downspouts with a garden hose. Clean at least twice a year, more often under trees.
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Time
- 2 to 4 hours for a one-story house
- Updated
- November 9, 2026
What is causing it?
Leaves, seeds, shingle grit and nests fill gutters and plug downspouts. Water then spills over the edge next to the foundation, rots fascia boards, and in cold climates helps form ice dams.
Tools and materials
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Tools
- Extension ladder rated for your weight plus toolsFiberglass is safer near power lines than aluminumCheck price on Amazon
- Ladder stabilizer (standoff)Keeps the ladder off the gutterCheck price on Amazon
- Gutter scoopCheck price on Amazon
- Bucket with a hookKeeps both hands freeCheck price on Amazon
- Work gloves and safety glassesCheck price on Amazon
- Garden hose spray nozzleCheck price on Amazon
Materials
- Gutter sealant, for leaky seamsOptionalCheck price on Amazon
How do you clean gutters? Step by step
Inspect the ladder and site
Check rungs, feet and locks before use. Look up for power lines. OSHA guidance says not to use a metal ladder near power lines or energized equipment.
Set up the ladder
Place it on firm, level ground with the base about 1 foot out for every 4 feet of height. Use a stabilizer so it bears on the roof, not the gutter. Keep three points of contact while climbing.
Scoop from the downspout end
Start near a downspout and work away from it so you do not push debris into the downspout. Drop debris into your bucket or onto a tarp. Move the ladder often rather than overreaching.
Flush the gutters
Run a hose from the far end toward the downspout and watch for standing water, which shows sags. This Old House advises a garden hose rather than a pressure washer, which can damage gutters.
Clear downspouts
If water backs up, spray the hose up from the bottom of the downspout or use a plumber's snake from the top.
Check the drainage
Make sure downspouts discharge several feet away from the foundation with an extension or splash block.
Planning materials? Try the Mulch and Gravel Calculator.
Safety notes
- Do not stand on the top three rungs of an extension ladder or the top step of a stepladder.
- Do not work on a ladder in wind, rain, or when tired or dizzy.
- Keep your belt buckle between the rails; move the ladder instead of leaning.
- Have someone nearby, and wear shoes with slip-resistant soles.
When should you call a pro?
- The house is two stories or more, or the roof is steep.
- Gutters are pulling away from the fascia or the fascia is rotted.
- Power lines run near the gutters.
Frequently asked questions
How often should gutters be cleaned?
This Old House suggests at least twice a year, and up to every three months under trees that shed often.
Do gutter guards eliminate cleaning?
They reduce it, but most still need periodic cleaning of the guards and occasional flushing.
Can I clean gutters from the ground?
Telescoping gutter wands that attach to a hose work for loose debris on one-story homes, though packed debris usually needs hand scooping.
Sources
Steps are based on these manufacturer and safety references. Your product's own manual comes first.