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Whether you live in a single-story home on a slab foundation or a 3-story house with a walkout basement, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to choosing ladders for gutter cleaning. If you’re unsure whether to opt for an aluminum or fiberglass ladder—or whether you should choose an extension ladder versus a step ladder—you’ve come to the right place. We’ve tested dozens of ladders of all different types and sizes, so in this guide, we’ll help you navigate the selection process to choose the best option for your rain gutter cleaning needs.
Along with the size of the ladder, the most important things to consider when choosing a ladder revolve around safety, such as weight capacity and electrical conductivity. We chose the Werner 28-Foot Fiberglass Extension Ladder as our top pick because it is tall enough to reach most second-story gutters, is safer to use around electrical hazards, and boasts a heavy-duty rating. It’s a great option for many, but it might be too big, too heavy, or simply not have the right features for your needs. That’s why we also included multiposition ladders, step ladders, and telescoping ladders in our picks. Read on to find out how each model performed in testing and to find the best ladder for gutter cleaning at your home.
- BEST OVERALL: Werner 28-Foot Fiberglass Glidesafe Extension Ladder
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Gorilla 18-Foot MPXA 2.0 Multi-Position Ladder
↓ Jump to Review - BEST TELESCOPING: Xtend+Climb 12.5-Foot Telescoping Extension Ladder
↓ Jump to Review - BEST MULTIPOSITION: Gorilla 22-Foot MPXA 2.0 Multi-Position Ladder
↓ Jump to Review - BEST PLATFORM LADDER: Louisville Ladder 6-Foot Fiberglass Platform Ladder
↓ Jump to Review - BEST EXTRA HEAVY-DUTY: Werner 24-Foot Aluminum Type 1AA Extension Ladder
↓ Jump to Review - BEST ACCESSORY: Ladder-Max Original Ladder Standoff Stabilizer
↓ Jump to Review
| Testing Stats | |
| Products tested | 17 |
| Time spent testing | 3 weeks |
| Tests performed | 4 |
| Price range | $120 to $480 |
Our Top Picks
Whether you need a ladder with longer reach or a lightweight option for easy transport, this lineup of the best ladders for gutter cleaning has you covered.
Best Overall
Werner 28-Foot Fiberglass Glidesafe Extension Ladder
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Stability 5/5; Portability 4/5; Value 4.7/5
Product Specs
- Maximum reach height: 27 feet
- Ladder weight: 59.5 pounds
- Load capacity: 300 pounds
What We Like
- Lift Assist Technology reduces user strain
- Built-in lowering assist controls descent
- Dual locking system prevents unintended ladder extension
- Features nonconductive fiberglass rails for working near electricity
- Available in 6 sizes from 20 to 40 feet
What We Don’t Like
- Heavy at 59.5 pounds
We’ve used a lot of extension ladders over the years, and one of the biggest issues is the amount of physical strength it takes to extend the upper portion of the ladder. Werner has changed all that with its proprietary Lift Assist Technology.
With Lift Assist, extending the ladder is up to 50 percent easier, sparing the user’s back and arms from unnecessary strain. The technology utilizes spring-assisted components—much like a garage door opener—to reduce the force needed to raise the ladder. All we had to do was pull downward on the included rope, and the extension part of the ladder slid easily upward, locking in place, rung by rung, for safety.
Werner also includes a built-in lowering assist feature, which provides a controlled and gentle descent. This minimizes the chances of jarring slams, broken fingers, and rope burns; the Werner fiberglass extension ladder’s GlideSafe technology prioritizes safety. We also liked the ladder’s dual locking system, which prevents the ladder from extending during transport.
Another perk is the ladder’s fiberglass construction—a must for electricians or anyone working around electricity because fiberglass is nonconductive. A slight downside is the ladder’s weight (59.5 pounds), which may be challenging for some users to carry. Still, for many users, this extension ladder’s attributes, including the GlideSafe technology and its nonconductive build, will outweigh the ladder’s heavy weight.
Get the Werner 28-foot ladder for gutter cleaning at Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.
Best Bang for the Buck
Gorilla 18-Foot MPXA 2.0 Multi-Position Ladder
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Stability 5/5; Portability 4.5/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Maximum reach height: 18 feet 1 inch
- Ladder weight: 30 pounds
- Load capacity: 300 pounds
What We Like
- Multipurpose; 5 configurations to choose from
- Oversize hinges offer enhanced rigidity
- Provides integrated tool hangers in hinges and feet
- Stronger yet more lightweight than other multiposition ladders
What We Don’t Like
- Bulkier than standard telescoping ladders
- Add-on purchase required for use as a scaffold
Although it takes up more storage space than a standard telescoping ladder, the 18-foot multiposition ladder from Gorilla offers more reach for the money. This five-in-one aluminum ladder can be configured as an 18-foot max reach extension ladder, an 11-foot max reach two-sided step ladder or stairway ladder, and a 10.5-foot max reach 90-degree wall ladder. You can also use the ladder as a scaffold with the additional purchase of the rail brackets accessory. When retracted and folded for storage, it measures just over 4.5 feet long.
The Gorilla 18-foot MPXA 2.0 was easy to set up and use in all of the available configurations. Its versatility makes it a great option for cleaning out gutters that are harder to reach. We would have been willing to pay a little more to get the full five-in-one functionality with the initial purchase instead of having to pay $20 for separate hardware afterward. The chunky hinges and locking pins were very easy to operate with gloved hands and held the ladder perfectly steady when we climbed. We especially liked the tool hangers as an added convenience for projects that involve switching from one gutter-cleaning tool to another.
Get the Gorilla 18-foot ladder for gutter cleaning at The Home Depot.
Best Telescoping
Xtend+Climb 12.5-Foot Telescoping Extension Ladder
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Stability 5/5; Portability 5/5; Value 4.3/5
Product Specs
- Maximum reach height: 16 feet 6 inches
- Ladder weight: 30 pounds
- Load capacity: 300 pounds
What We Like
- Sturdiest telescoping ladder we tested
- Tabs reveal green dot for reference when locked
- Raised strips on the rungs provide excellent traction
- Nonskid feet stick firmly in place
What We Don’t Like
- More expensive than other telescoping ladders this size
Xtend+Climb offers a variety of American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-certified and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)-compliant telescoping ladders, including the 780P+, its popular 12.5-foot telescoping extension ladder. It is made of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy for strength and weighs 30 pounds. This ladder measures 12.5 feet long when fully extended, for a maximum reach of 16.5 feet, and has a load capacity of 300 pounds. The retracted height is just 32 inches.
The Xtend+Climb ladder was everything we were looking for in a telescopic ladder: compact, relatively lightweight, sturdy, and capable of offering a good reach for most interior and single-story exterior projects. It was fast and easy to set up and retract. During setup, the locking tabs clicked audibly in place, and a green dot that was revealed beside each tab gave visual confirmation that it was safe to climb.
This ladder felt as sturdy as a traditional extension ladder. We had no reservations about climbing up and down with tools and equipment. The wide feet rested firmly in place on flat surfaces, and the textured rungs provided sure-footed traction.
Get the Xtend+Climb ladder for gutter cleaning at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best Multiposition
Gorilla 22-Foot MPXA 2.0 Multi-Position Ladder
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Stability 5/5; Portability 4/5; Value 4.7/5
Product Specs
- Maximum reach height: 22 feet
- Ladder weight: 36.9 pounds
- Load capacity: 300 pounds
What We Like
- Safely supports up to 300 pounds
- Features 5 multipurpose configurations
- Oversize hinges, grip locks, nonslip feet for stability
- Includes tool hangers and project bucket
What We Don’t Like
- Adjusting configurations is tricky at first
- Pricier compared to single-purpose ladders
The Gorilla multiposition ladder earned a spot in our lineup with its impressive 300-pound load capacity and highly adjustable structure. It can transform into different configurations, including an extension ladder, step ladder, wall ladder, stairway step ladder, and even a scaffold base. This adaptability eliminates the need to own multiple ladders, and we found it sturdy in all configurations.
It has oversize hinges, grip locks, and nonslip feet that help offer a secure and wobble-free experience. We liked how stable the ladder was when extended to its full height. We’ve climbed on many tall ladders that had a tendency to flex, but this Gorilla model remained rigid and didn’t bounce. For a tall ladder, it’s relatively lightweight at 38 pounds, making it easy to carry and transport. It fits neatly into confined spaces, measuring 67 inches tall by 26 inches wide by 8.5 inches deep when folded. Despite being lightweight, it’s not rickety.
Those new to the concept of a multiposition ladder might initially struggle with the Gorilla’s various configurations and mechanisms—it took us a while to figure out how to adjust the ladder. Still, once we learned the process, it became second nature, and we were able to quickly change from one configuration to another.
The ladder’s heavy-duty feet offer exceptional grip on various surfaces, and the 1-inch rung depth enhances standing comfort during prolonged use.
Read our full review: Gorilla 22-Foot MPXA 2.0 Multi-Position Ladder
Get the Gorilla 22-foot ladder for gutter cleaning exclusively at The Home Depot.
Best Platform Ladder
Louisville Ladder 6-Foot Fiberglass Platform Ladder
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Stability 5/5; Portability 4/5; Value 4.7/5
Product Specs
- Maximum reach height: 12.3 feet
- Ladder weight: 31 pounds
- Load capacity: 300 pounds
What We Like
- Large, stable platform ideal for overhead work
- Tool slots and magnet bar at tool-belt height
- Fiberglass construction is safe for electrical projects
- Sturdy construction with diagonal bracing
What We Don’t Like
- Limited platform working height range
A platform ladder offers a stable work area for cleaning out gutters adjacent to a driveway, patio, deck, or other fairly level surface. This pick from Louisville Ladder boasts an extra-large platform with plenty of space to maneuver. The top handrail is conveniently positioned at tool-belt height, which is 30 inches above the platform. It features an array of tool slots and a magnetic strip to help you stay organized. The ladder also includes nonskid feet, slip-resistant rungs, wide back braces, and double-riveted construction. It supports up to 300 pounds.
This 6-foot platform ladder gave us over 12 feet of reach—equivalent to an 8-foot step ladder, but with better stability and much more comfortable footing. The 57-inch base spread gave it a longer footprint as well. At 31 pounds, it was heavier than most 8-foot fiberglass step ladders, but it was still light enough to carry around the yard. The only downside would be awkward positioning if there were an occasion to stand and work at a lower height. Additionally, the elevated front rail and extra-large platform made it more difficult to manage tools while standing on the ladder rungs below the platform.
Get the Louisville Ladder ladder for gutter cleaning at Amazon or The Home Depot.
More Great Options
Although we did not test the following ladders, we still recommend them based on their features and consumer reviews.
Best Extra Heavy-Duty
Werner 24-Foot Aluminum Type 1AA Extension Ladder
Pros
- Aluminum ladder with the heaviest-duty rating
- Right-sized ladder for 2-story house
- Smooth-operating pulleys and spring-loaded rung locks
- Can separate for use as 2 single-section ladders
Cons
- Costlier and less portable than lighter-duty ladders
Product Specs
- Maximum reach height: 23 feet
- Ladder weight: 49 pounds
- Load capacity: 375 pounds
If you need to reach the second story with gutter cleaning tools and you won’t be working around electrical hazards, then an aluminum extension ladder is the way to go. This 24-foot aluminum Type 1AA extension ladder from Werner is the perfect size for a 2-story house on a slab or a single-story over a basement, and it’s strong enough to support up to 375 pounds.
From a purely practical standpoint, the 375-pound rating is more than most users require. The added strength makes it heavier and more expensive than lighter-duty options. But the rigidity that comes with the additional load support means that the ladder has less flex and movement compared to lighter-duty options. That can be a real confidence boost for those who are less comfortable working at heights.
Other handy features that stand out include free-swinging shoes that self-align for easier setup, large slip-resistant rungs for comfortable footing, extra heavy-duty I-beam rails, and a pulley system with spring-loaded rung locks for fast and easy adjustments. And for those times that you only need a 12-foot straight ladder, the base and fly segments easily separate so that you won’t have to lug the whole thing around.
Get the Werner 24-foot ladder for gutter cleaning at Lowe’s or The Home Depot.
Best Accessory
Ladder-Max Original Ladder Standoff Stabilizer
Pros
- Prevents gutter and paint damage while stabilizing ladder
- 19 inches of standoff for versatility
- Heavy-duty steel construction with nonmarring tips
- Works with extension, telescoping, and articulating ladders
Cons
- Makes ladder top-heavy; proper positioning requires more effort
Product Specs
- Maximum reach height: N/A
- Ladder weight: N/A
- Load capacity: 375 pounds
Propping your ladder against an aluminum gutter can scratch the paint, damage the gutter, or allow the ladder to side-slip on the smooth surface. Adding a ladder stabilizer solves these problems. The Ladder-Max Standoff stabilizer allows you to safely rest your ladder against the roof or siding with a wider base of contact for improved lateral stability—all without damaging the house.
The Ladder-Max stabilizer is made of rust-resistant steel and boasts a Type 1AA maximum load rating. OSHA certified and ANSI tested, it attaches to straight, extension, or articulating ladders in seconds by easily mounting over two rungs of a ladder. The arms angle outward to distribute weight across an area nearly twice the width of most ladders, boosting the ladder’s overall stability. The distance between the nonmarring arm tips measures 36 inches. The stabilizer provides 19 inches of standoff for a more comfortable working position and safer lateral reach.
The taller the reach, the greater the risk. This accessory may not be needed for single-story ladder use, but those with 2- or 3-story houses will want to strongly consider adding one. Yes, it will make the ladder more top-heavy and awkward to set up, but once in place, it will significantly improve ladder performance and overall project safety.
Get the Ladder-Max ladder stabilizer at Amazon, RoofingDirect.com, or Ladder-Max.
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Chose and Tested the Best Ladders for Gutter Cleaning
Choosing the best ladders for cleaning gutters depends largely on the height of your gutters and the lay of the land. In most cases, you’ll probably want a ladder you can also use for other projects. For that reason we selected a variety of ladder types and sizes that could get the job done safely and efficiently.
We tested these ladders over the course of several weeks by simply using them as they were designed and evaluating them for four basic characteristics: ease of use, stability, portability, and value. We spent at least 2 hours transporting, setting up, climbing, repositioning, and stowing away each one. After recording all of the measurables and answering a set of subjective questions on our scoring rubric, we awarded our top picks.
What to Consider When Choosing a Ladder for Gutter Cleaning
Choosing the right ladder is a matter of safety and convenience. To help you choose safe ladders for cleaning gutters, here’s what you need to know with regard to ladder height, weight limits, and different ladder materials.
Height
Ladders are labeled according to their “reach” as well as the actual ladder height. Ladder reach is about 4 feet higher than the actual height of a step ladder or 1 foot lower than the height of a straight ladder. This measurement approximates a maximum safe working height while a user is standing on the ladder. For example, a 6-foot step ladder would be adequate to reach gutters up to 10 feet high, while a 20-foot extension ladder would allow you to clean gutters 19 feet above ground.
If you also need to use the ladder as a means to climb onto the roof, you’ll need a longer ladder. To safely climb from the ladder onto the roof, the ladder must extend a minimum of 3 feet above the roof line. So, if the gutters are 19 feet above ground level, you need a ladder that is at least 22 feet long to safely access the rooftop. When it comes to roof gutter cleaning, a slightly longer ladder is safer than “just long enough.”
Load Capacity
Another important safety consideration is the ladder’s ability to support enough weight. The duty rating, found on the ladder’s specifications label, indicates the load capacity or working weight limit. The duty rating represents the total maximum weight the ladder will safely support, including the worker and all tools and equipment. Consider all of the ways you may use the ladder in the future and don’t underestimate the added weight of tools and equipment. Although gutter cleaner tools and supplies might be lightweight, other items such as paint or shingles add up quickly. Duty ratings are coded as follows:
| Duty Rating | Designation | Maximum Weight |
| Type III | Light Duty | 200 pounds |
| Type II | Medium Duty | 225 pounds |
| Type I | Heavy Duty | 250 pounds |
| Type IA | Extra Heavy Duty | 300 pounds |
| Type IAA | Extra Heavy Duty | 375 pounds |
Material
Most modern ladders are made primarily of either aluminum or fiberglass. Each of these options comes with pros and cons. Aluminum ladders are relatively inexpensive and offer a better strength-to-weight ratio. The larger the ladder you need, the easier a lightweight aluminum option will be to transport and set up. Furthermore, aluminum won’t be damaged by ultraviolet exposure and inclement weather. The main problem with aluminum ladders is that they conduct electricity, which could present an electrocution hazard in certain work environments. Where electrical hazards are or may be present, choose a fiberglass ladder that will not conduct electricity.
FAQs
If you are planning to use a ladder to simplify gutter cleaning, here are a few safety tips that you should know.
When used safely, ladders can be safe for gutter maintenance. The best ladders for gutter cleaning are designed to rest on firm, level ground, lean at a safe angle, and allow the user to reach the gutter without stretching or leaning.
Leaning a ladder on the rain gutter itself can cause scratches, dents, and other damage to the gutter. Attach a ladder standoff stabilizer to your extension ladder to avoid direct contact with the gutter and improve the ladder’s stability while cleaning gutters.
Avoid leaning the ladder directly on the gutter to prevent scratches and other damage to the gutter.
Meet the Testers
Mark Wolfe is a writer and product tester with 20 years of professional nursery and landscaping experience. He’s also an avid DIYer with an older home. When he isn’t writing, he spends his time upgrading, repairing, and replacing anything and everything in his house, yard, and garden.
Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. She and her husband own a general contracting company, and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial building applications. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.
