Whether you need one to clean the gutters, clean tall windows, get something off of a high shelf or anything else around the house chances you will need a ladder. What your primary use for it will be will determine exactly what kind of ladder you need. In some instances, you might need more than one (i.e. one for inside and one for outside). When you get to the "ladder store" more than likely you will be kind of suprised about how many types of ladders there are. Use this small guide to pick the perfect ladder(s) for you and your needs.

Height - As stated above it depends on what you will use the ladder for as to how tall you need it to be. Remember that you should never stand on the top 2 rungs of a ladder. That will take 2 to 3 feet of length off of the height. If you are getting a straight ladder or extension ladder, they have to be placed at an angle so you will loose some height there too. Be sure to factor these in when you are deciding on the height of the ladder you need

Load capacity - I am a big guy so this is something that I have always had to look for when choosing a ladder. Ladder types range in load capicity from 200 lbs. to 375 lbs. Here is a guide to the main types of ladders and their loads:

Load Capacity Type Grade Typical Uses
200 lbs. III Household
225 lbs. II Professional Duty
250 lbs. I Commercial Duty
300 lbs. IA Industrial Duty
375 lbs. IAA Special Duty

Material - If available, I prefer a fiberglass ladder, but there are other materials such as aluminum and wood. Wooden ladders are relatively inexpensive and do not conduct electricity while aluminum ladders are light, relatively strong, but do conduct electricity. Fiberglass ladders do not conduct electricity and they are very strong. It all comes down to your preference and budget.

Ladder type - You can choose a step ladder, straight ladder, extension ladder or a stepping stool type ladder. It really depends on the way you are going to use it.

As a bonus, here are few safety tips
-- Wear shoes that do not slip when using your ladder
-- Do not excessively lean or reach when on a ladder. Either reposition the ladder so that you can safely use it or you might need to get a new ladder for the job.
Make sure that the ladder is on a solid sturdy surface before you begin to climb it.
There is a safe standing level clearly marked on the ladder - DON'T STAND ABOVE THIS!
If you are using an extension ladder make sure all of the locks are properly hooked to prevent it from slipping.