Michael,

> Question 1: Are you talking about cleaning
> the outside, or getting rid of the muck from
> the inside, or both?

Cleaning out the inside only. Best done when the dirt in the gutter is dry, if possible. Just scoop it out. Once the bulk of the dirt/leaves/debris is out of the gutter, you can wash it down with a hose if you want to get it fully clean (but clear the downspout first, see below).

> Question 2: How do you clean the inside of a
> downspout? (My gutters need cleaning out.
> I've got a specially designed scoop which
> does nicely [looks like a deformed Track
> Ball handle], but the downspouts I am
> clueless about.)

Usually, all you have to do is take a hose, place the nozzel in in the top of the downspout and turn it on. Swoosh, out comes the dirt and debris. Sometimes, you have to dig out the muck from the top of the downspout (with a wire coat hanger or the like --- I have even used a shop vacuum to do it) before you can clear it with a hose.

Happy cleaning!

---- Hugh