Leaves in a roof gutter can block downspouts and send water against siding and foundations. Gutter cleaning is also a fall hazard, so choose a method that keeps your feet stable and avoids reaching beyond a safe position.
Choose conditions and equipment
Work in dry, calm weather when the roof and ladder are not slick. Wear gloves, eye protection, and shoes with firm soles. Use a gutter scoop, bucket, hose, and a ladder rated for your weight and equipment. Never use a roof edge or an improvised platform as a work surface.
Set the ladder correctly
Place the ladder on firm, level ground with both rails supported. Keep the top away from fragile gutters and maintain three points of contact while climbing. A second person can foot the ladder and move the bucket, but should not distract the person working above.
Work in short sections
Remove leaves by hand or scoop without leaning sideways. Climb down and reposition instead of stretching. Place debris in a bucket secured for the climb down, and keep tools from falling onto people below. If the gutter is high, steep, or inaccessible, use a professional service.
Flush and inspect
After the bulk debris is out, run water from the end opposite the downspout and watch for leaks, overflow, or slow drainage. Clear the downspout from the ground with a hose attachment rather than climbing onto the roof. Repair separated joints and keep downspout outlets directed away from the foundation.
Cleaning twice a year may be enough for an open yard, while tree-heavy properties need more frequent checks. Safety matters more than finishing the job in one climb.