A non-woven mesh guard which can be inserted into a downspout opening in a rain gutter in order to prevent debris from entering the downspout is provided. The non-woven mesh includes a large free area to allow for the flow of water therethrough while preventing debris from entering the downspout. Anchor pins are installed in the guard to prevent it from being forced too far down into the downspout opening. Alternatively, the non-woven material may be formed such that it includes an enlarged top portion which rests in the base of the gutter over the downspout opening while a reduced size portion is inserted into the downspout.