How to Clean Gutters: A Complete Guide for Homeowners

Gather Your Equipment

Recommended Products

Looking for related items?
Check these Amazon options for great deals and top-rated picks:

👉 https://www.amazon.com/s?k=gather+your+equipment&tag=filsdu2025-20

Before starting the gutter cleaning process, ensure you have all necessary tools within reach. You'll need a sturdy extension ladder, a bucket or tarp for collecting debris, a gutter scoop or small trowel, garden hose with a spray nozzle, work gloves, and safety goggles. Having everything prepared before you climb the ladder will make the job safer and more efficient.

Recommended Products

Looking for related items?
Check these Amazon options for great deals and top-rated picks:

👉 https://www.amazon.com/s?k=before+starting+gutter+cleaning&tag=filsdu2025-20

Set Up Your Ladder Safely

Recommended Products

Looking for related items?
Check these Amazon options for great deals and top-rated picks:

👉 https://www.amazon.com/s?k=set+up+your+ladder&tag=filsdu2025-20

Position your extension ladder on stable, level ground at a 75-degree angle. The ladder should extend at least three feet above the gutter line to provide safe access. Place the ladder feet on solid ground, not on soft soil or uneven surfaces. If possible, have someone spot you from the ground while you work.

Recommended Products

Looking for related items?
Check these Amazon options for great deals and top-rated picks:

👉 https://www.amazon.com/s?k=position+your+extension+ladder&tag=filsdu2025-20

Remove Large Debris

Recommended Products

Looking for related items?
Check these Amazon options for great deals and top-rated picks:

👉 https://www.amazon.com/s?k=remove+large+debris&tag=filsdu2025-20

Starting at the downspout, begin removing large debris from your gutters using your gloved hands or a gutter scoop. Place the debris in your bucket or drop it onto the tarp below. Work in small sections, moving away from the downspout to ensure you don't push debris toward it, which could cause clogging.

Recommended Products

Looking for related items?
Check these Amazon options for great deals and top-rated picks:

👉 https://www.amazon.com/s?k=starting+downspout&tag=filsdu2025-20

Flush the Gutters

Recommended Products

Looking for related items?
Check these Amazon options for great deals and top-rated picks:

👉 https://www.amazon.com/s?k=flush+gutters&tag=filsdu2025-20

After removing all visible debris, use your garden hose to flush the gutters. Start at the far end and work toward the downspout. This process helps remove small particles and tests if water is flowing properly through the system. Watch for any leaks at seams or corners.

Recommended Products

Looking for related items?
Check these Amazon options for great deals and top-rated picks:

👉 https://www.amazon.com/s?k=after+removing+all+visible&tag=filsdu2025-20