Cleaning gutters is one of those tasks that feels small… until you’re on a ladder elbow-deep in soggy leaves. 🤦♂️ And if you’ve got a pressure washer, the job seems like it should go faster — but then the question hits:
“Do I clean the inside of the gutters first, or the outside?”
The answer depends on your goals — but in most cases, it’s best to start with the inside. Let’s break down why, how to do it safely, and the steps to leave your gutters sparkling clean — inside and out. ✨🧽
🧠 Why Start with the Inside?
The inside of your gutters is what actually affects your home’s drainage and water flow. If they’re clogged or blocked, you risk:
- Overflowing water damaging your roof or siding
- Foundation erosion from improper drainage
- Mold and mildew around your home’s base
- Water pooling near basement windows
Cleaning the outside first might make your gutters look great — but it doesn’t fix any of those underlying issues. So for functionality and efficiency, the inside always comes first. ✅
🧰 What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather your gear:
- A ladder with stabilizers or a secure footing system
- A gutter cleaning attachment for your pressure washer
- Gloves 🧤
- Safety goggles 🥽
- A tarp or bucket to catch debris
- A garden hose for final rinsing
If you don’t have a pressure washer attachment for gutters, many models offer curved wands or extendable arms specifically made for this job. These are great for cleaning from the ground.
🚿 How to Pressure Wash Inside Gutters (Safely)
1. Remove Large Debris First
Before blasting anything, scoop out big chunks of leaves, sticks, or nests by hand. Pressure washing a full gutter can create a nasty mess — and possibly a clog in your downspout. 😬
2. Start at the Downspout End
You want to push debris away from the downspout, not into it. So start farthest from the downspout and work your way toward it. Use a low or medium pressure setting to avoid dislodging any gutter brackets or joints.
3. Use Controlled Bursts
Hold the wand at an angle and spray in short bursts. A continuous stream can splash water and gunk back at you — or even into your siding.
4. Flush Downspouts
Once you’ve cleared the inside, test the downspouts by spraying water down each one. If water backs up, use a plumber’s snake or specialty nozzle to clear any blockages.
🧼 Cleaning the Outside of the Gutters
Now that the inside is flowing freely, let’s shine up those outer surfaces. They take a beating from dirt, algae, and rain streaks.
1. Apply a Cleaning Solution
Use a pressure washer detergent made for siding or gutters. Let it dwell for 5–10 minutes. This breaks down oxidation and organic buildup.
2. Use a 40° Nozzle
A wide-angle spray gives you coverage without damaging paint or trim. Start from one end of the house and move consistently across in 3–4 foot sections.
3. Work Top to Bottom
Clean fascia boards, the top lip of the gutter, and then work your way down. This prevents dirty water from running over already-clean areas.
4. Spot-Treat Tough Stains
For black streaks or mildew, use a scrub brush and a mix of vinegar and baking soda, or a specialized oxidation remover. Don’t use bleach — it can damage your landscaping. 🌱
🧯 Safety Tips for Pressure Washing Gutters
- Never pressure wash from the roof — it’s slippery and dangerous. 🧗♂️
- If using a ladder, always maintain three points of contact.
- Use standoff stabilizers to avoid damaging gutters with ladder pressure.
- Wear protective gear to prevent injury from blowback or debris.
🧽 Pro Tip: Maintain Them Year-Round
To avoid full cleanouts every season:
- Install gutter guards to prevent buildup
- Rinse gutters quarterly with a hose
- Schedule annual or biannual professional cleanings
- Trim trees that hang over your roof
✅ Final Thoughts
So, should you clean the inside or outside of your gutters first?
Always start with the inside — it’s where the real problems begin. Once you’ve flushed away all the debris and ensured proper flow, then move on to the outer cosmetic cleaning.
By following these steps, you’ll not only keep your gutters looking fresh, but also protect your home from expensive water damage down the road. 🏠💧🧼
