There may never be a single home without a step ladder. The best step ladder is versatile and can help you with a variety of household tasks. From changing the light bulb to pruning trees, this is your handy companion.
There are different types of stepladders. And some have more bells and whistles while some are more of the basic type. So we are going to enumerate the best step ladders and why you should buy them. You’ll also see when you will be able to use them the most.
So scroll down to see our top picks!
Our Top Picks for the Best Step Ladder (A Product Review)
1. Rubbermaid RM 2W- Best Durable
If you need a step ladder that can reach up to 8 ft in height, this is the perfect product for you.
This 2 step folding ladder can be easily folded for convenience. So it will only require a small space in your storage room.
Moreover, it’s durable and has a stainless steel powder finish. So it also looks sleek and presentable at the same time. It’s also safe to use and you will not feel any wobble. This step ladder boasts a wider platform so even those with large feet will feel fully supported. Also, it has a padded ladder for better balance. So you’ll feel safer as you ascend and descend the stairs.
Plus, it will not scratch or damage your hardwood floors. It has non-marring feet that will not damage your floors.
Features
- 2.9 x 20 x 35.7 inches
- Reaches up to 8 ft in height
- Measures 5.8 lbs
- Padded handle
- Folding 2 step
- 1 year limited warranty
- 200 lb load capacity
Pros
- Sturdy and well made
- Compact
- Foldable
Cons
- Can be heavy
Why you should buy this step ladder
If you have a small space, you’ll find this step ladder rather convenient. It folds up easily and only has a small footprint. Plus, it’s durable and stable at the same time.
2. Gorilla Ladders Fiberglass Hybrid – Best Fiberglass Step Ladder
This fiberglass ladder has two platform steps that can provide you optimum support.
So the wider 2 steps can provide more balance. And this step ladder can be used for low-reach outdoor tasks at the same time. It also reaches up to 10 ft in height. So it reaches the same height as a regular step ladder, except that it’s a more compact one.
It will not eat up too much space and is very easy to store.
So if you need a ladder that can prevent more support and easy balancing, you’ve come to the right spot.
Features
- 250 lb capacity
- 10 ft max reach height
- Dual platform
Pros
- 2 wide platform for easier balancing
- More stable
- Compact
Cons
- Some customer are not sure of the weight ratings
Why you should buy this step ladder
If you have a hard time balancing yourself on a stepladder, this is for you. The two steps are wider and can provide more support.
3. charaHOME Folding – Best Value for Money
This portable foldable step ladder is your ultimate ladder.
It’s packed with nifty features. You can use this stepladder for a variety of applications. It only has three steps. And the top step will elevate you at least 29 inches from the ground. So it’s perfect for simple tasks such as changing a light bulb.
Moreover, it’s loaded with safety features so you will feel safe and stable while ascending and descending the stairs. It has non-skid rungs for more stability. And it has a safety lock so you will not worry if it collapses.
Also, it’s a rather durable step ladder and it’s made of alloy steel, a heavy type of steel. And it’s rated to hold someone who weighs up to 500 lbs.
This step ladder could tick all the boxes of your list. It also has a caddy where you can place your tools. So you don’t have to go down to get your screws or wrenches.
Features
- Made of alloy steel, metal, and rubber
- 500 lbs load capacity
- 3 steps
- Heavy-duty steel
- anti-skid rubber feet, metal crossbars, and a safety lock under the top step
- Side hand grip
- Foldable handy tool pouch caddy
Pros
- Has several safety features
- Study and heavy duty
- Compact and foldable
Cons
- Can be heavy
Why you should buy this step ladder
It has several safety features that make it more stable and secure.
4. Little Giant Ladders Quick-N-Lite- Best Lightweight
If you’re tired of carrying a heavy step ladder from room to room, this is the product for you.
This fiberglass step ladder is quite light and compact. So if you need to move it to the next room, it’s not going to be a workout. Also, it’s foldable and compact. so that makes up for the easy storage.
Also, the platform has a tool tray where you can place your handy tools. So you don’t have to go down to get them. You can even hang a pail of water off the hook.
In terms of stability and construction, this step ladder will not disappoint. This is light, but you’ll feel stable and secure when you’re working on your repairs. Ascending and descending the stairs is also easier. It’s lightweight yet heavy-duty.
Also, the aesthetic is pleasing to the eyes. It has a nice eye-catching design that‘s hard to ignore.
Features
- Weighs 12 pounds
- Measures 20 x 5.5 x 63 inches
- Fiberglass construction
- Wide 3” rungs with treads
- Load capacity of 250 lbs
Pros
- Light yet sturdy
- Portable and compact
- Nice design
- Slots for accessories on the platform
Cons
- Footlong space between rugs
Why you should buy this step ladder
It’s a lightweight yet heavy-duty step ladder.
5. Delxo Folding 4 Step Ladder -Best for Airy Tasks
This is the perfect step ladder for your airy home tasks and repairs.
If you need a stepladder for fixing the light bulbs, pruning the trees, or clean ceiling fixtures, this is it. It goes higher than most step ladders. On top of that, you’d still feel safe and secure with the extra-wide steps.
It also has non-marring legs so it won’t damage your floors. And it’s rather stable too. What adds to its stability is the back brace of the ladder.
Features
- Load capacity 330 lbs
- Safety latch
- Solid metal frame
- Weighs 17.5 lbs
- Folding design
- Non-marring legs
- Convenient handgrip
- Back Cross Brace structure
- 10-inch distance between steps
Pros
- Stable and secure
- Portable
- Wider feet
- Can go higher
Cons
- Some find it heavy
Why you should buy this step ladder
It’s a heavy-duty step ladder that can go a bit higher.
6. Little Giant 10410BA- Best Aluminum
It’s a lightweight and multipurpose aluminum ladder.
If you aren’t into fiberglass ladders, this is the perfect alternative. And what you’ll instantly notice is how durable and sturdy it is. It has ergonomic handrails that make ascending and descending easier. So you’ll feel safer too.
And what’s a treat is that it can fold up to 5.5-inch depth. So it is easier to store and will not eat up much space.
The steps are padded with rubber. It has anti-skid and anti-slip stairs. It is a bit wider too so it will not pinch your feet. Thus it provides more comfort too.
What you’ll also love is the unique stairway design. It’s the first of its kind. It has a unique and high-end feel to the stairs.
Features
- Weighs 27.5 Pounds
- Made of aluminum
- Rubber feet
- 1-year warranty
- Measures 55.5 x 23 x 5.5 inches
- non-slip staircase design
- 300 lbs weight rating
- Tip & Glide wheel
Pros
- Unique design
- Stable and heavy duty
- Compact and easily foldable for storage
Cons
- Can be heavy
Why you should buy this step ladder
It’s the best aluminum step ladder on our list. It’s durable, compact, and quite stable too.
7. Costco Two Step Lite Solutions – Best 2 Step Ladder
It may only have steps, but it’s quite versatile and multipurpose
Moreover, it’s quite heavy duty despite being lightweight. The top step is a kind of shelf so it will be able to hold some stuff. It’s also wider and quite comfortable to stand on.
You will feel secure when you’re standing on the top platform. And it can serve you a lot in the kitchen, especially when you’re reaching for items and ingredients in your cupboard,
Features
- Measures 23.62 x 18.5 x 39.37 inches
- Weighs 4.62 Pounds
- Ribbed slip-resistant top step
- 2 step ladder
- Made of aluminum
- Contemporary design
- Non-marring legs
- Foldable
Pros
- Lightweight yet sturdy
- Slip-resistant treads
- The wider and stable top platform
Cons
- Some find the ladder a bit short
Why you should buy this step ladder
It’s perfect for reaching items in your kitchen cupboards. And it’s lightweight yet sturdy too.
8. Delxo Lightweight Aluminum -Woodgrain – Best Mid Height Step Ladder
This versatile step ladder veers away from the usual steel design.
It has a rather attractive wooden design. So if you’re looking for a step ladder with a bit of flair, this is it. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but it will serve you well too. It will definitely fit in your rustic kitchen interiors. You might not even have to fold it as it can serve as part of your decor too.
We also love how the top platform is wider. This will be able to support you better and you’ll feel safer too.
Moreover, this step ladder is also very compact, and can easily fold up to 5 inches. So it will only need a very small space for storage.
It’s lightweight, sturdy, and stable. It also has a handrail so it keeps you balanced.
Features
- 3 step ladder
- Weight capacity of 300 lbs
- Made of aluminum
- Folds to 5.1 inches
- Wood design
- Non-Slip rubber feet
- Wide top platform
- Weighs 9 lbs
Pros
- Lightweight yet sturdy
- Attractive wooden design
- Foldable for easy storage
Cons
- Some wished it can go higher
Why you should buy this step ladder
It’s a sturdy and beautiful mid-height step ladder.
9. Support Plus – Best Budget
It may be easy in the pocket, but it’s packed with nifty features.
The Support Plus 3 step ladder will not burn a hole in your wallet. And yet it can enjoy an array of features that will make things easier for you. It’s packed with safety features such as padded handrails, non-marring feet, and a non-skid step.
The steps are also wider so it will not pinch your feet. Also, it will make your repairs and tasks easier. It’s equipped with a convenient tool caddy where you can place your accessories and tools. And the non-marring legs will not scratch or damage your expensive hardwood floors.
Features
- 3 step ladder
- Measures 26 x 19.5 x 54.75 inches
- Weighs 18.9 lbs
- Non-marring legs
- Large threaded steps
- Supports 300 lbs
- Weighs 18.6 lbs
- Twin padded handrails
- Handy tool caddy
- Foldable
Pros
- Affordable
- Has a tool caddy
- Lots of safety features
- Wider steps
Cons
- The steps are quite steep
Why you should buy this step ladder
It’s versatile and packed with safety features.
10. VonHaus Steel- Best Compact
This steel 4 step ladder is very compact. It can fold up to 1.8 inches.
So if you have very little space for storage, then you need this in your homes. Moreover, this compact step ladder is made of durable steel materials. It’s also very user-friendly with its wide steps and easy to grip handles.
Features
- 4 step ladder
- Anti-slip steps
- 330 lbs eight capacity
- Has a safety latch
- Folds to 1.8 inches
- Durable steel structure
Pros
- Easy to use
- Quite compact
- Treated anti-slip steps
Cons
- Light duty use only
Why you should buy this step ladder
It’s a compact step ladder. So if you’re looking for light-duty use, this is a great choice.
What to Consider When Buying the Best Step Ladders
Now that we have listed our top picks, how do you choose from there? Hover through our buying guide below to find the best fit for your home repair and daily tasks needs.
Safety
One of the most crucial factors when buying any type of ladder is safety. Does it comply with minimum safety and security standards?
All the step ladders on our list have met the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. You can easily check on the internet if the step ladder of your choice has indeed met these criteria.
Weight capacity
Step ladders have a different weight capacity. Some are rated to hold 500 lbs, while light-duty step ladders can accommodate a maximum of 250 lbs. So before buying a step ladder, make sure to buy one that can support your weight.
Durability
For step ladders to be safe, you also have to check what it is made of.
Aluminum, fiberglass, and steel are the top 3 materials often used in high-quality ladders. This will ensure that the ladder is built to last and will not easily break.
Features
To make the most out of your purchase, ensure that the stepladder has what you’re looking for. Some features may be seen in one ladder that the other lacks. And these are some of the following.
- Non-marring legs
- Tool caddy
- Wider steps
- Side rails
- Foldable design
Storage
The best step ladders on our list are pretty much foldable for easy storage, But how compact it is would depend on the brand. Some can be folded up to 5 inches while the most compact step ladder in our list can be folded up to 1 inch. That’s the best option if you have very limited space.
Portability
Our list contains a mixture of both portable lighter ladders to the more heavy-duty type. So if portability is the main concern for you, you can find what you need from our list.
Height of the ceiling
This is a must if you’re using the ladder indoors. Ceiling heights vary per home and per building. That’s why to make the right purchase, you have to do it.
This is important because most stepladders are not adjustable. Some may need a three-step ladder while it may be too long for some.
You may also like: How to Use a Ladder on Stairs
Height of the ladder
For most, 2 to 4 step ladders might suffice. But you also have to consider the height of the ladder itself and your height. Factor in those two to know what type of ladder will be most beneficial to you.
How to Compute What Height of Ladder Do I Need
You have to factor in your height and the highest rank of the step of the ladder that you can use. Not all ladders render the platform free for you to step on. And it’s not advised to stay on the top level of a ladder. Rather the safest point is two steps from the top.
The highest standing level of a stepladder is usually marked on the side rail of the ladder. So add this to your height and compare it to the height of the ceiling. Then you’ll be able to determine if this specific stepladder will be of use to you.
Normally, it should be 3 ft shorter than the highest point that you have to reach.
How to Use a Stepladder Properly
Step ladders are relatively safer to use compared to an extension ladder. But there are several safety precautions you have to observe so that you will not encounter any untoward accidents.
- It must have ground-level support on all four sides of the rails.
- When using stepladders, ensure that the spreaders are locked and the spread is fully opened.
- You can’t use step ladders with one side just partially opened.
- When ascending or descending the ladder, have both hands on the rails. And you also must face the ladder at all times until you have reached the ground safely
- Check for the condition of all the parts of the stepladder. If it appears to be broken or damaged, never use it unless you have repaired it.
- Never place step ladders on top of any other objects.
- Step Ladders will indicate the highest standing level. Never go overboard it.
- Do not step on the top cap or the bucket shelf.
- Keep your body in the middle of the steps. And to avoid overreaching, it must be placed near the workstation.
- Even if the step ladder seems heavy duty, never enter it from the sides.
- Do not push or pull the step ladder from the sides. This can make the ladder wobbly and weaken them.
- Never place a stepladder against a wall
- Don’t use stepladders in high traffic areas in your homes such as the doorway, or any entryway.
- Never climb the ladder by the back
- Do not place the ladder under a soft spot where one of the flour feet can sin into. It should always be on a flat ground surface.
Proper Care and Maintenance of Step Ladders
To ensure that your step ladder can serve you longer and better, you have to take care of it. And here’s how.
- Clean the stepladder upon purchasing. Check for any debris, dirt, or oil that could get stuck in between the rails.
- Check on all the working parts, the steps, the lock, and the bolts. Everything should be working properly. And before using the ladder, always check for these things.
- Avoid exposing the ladder to sunlight. This may affect the ladder’s strength.
- Also, do not expose your ladders to any acid or alkali materials. It can weaken the ladders.
- Dispose of ladders that are broken or seem destroyed.
- When transporting ladders, ensure that it is properly supported so that it will stay in place. Especially if you are driving uphill, ensure that the ladders are properly harnessed so they will not slip off and cause harm to you and your fellow motorists.
- When transporting ladders, make sure that they have support points made of wood or rubber toes. This will minimize the vibrations of road shock.
FAQ’s:
What is a step ladder
Step ladders are self-supporting. And unlike extension ladders, these ladders cannot be adjusted. They are often 4 ft to 20 ft in length along the side rails.
What are rungs?
The steps of the ladder are referred to as rungs.
What are the 3 main types of the ladder?
The different types of the ladder are step ladders, extension ladders, and single-pole ladders.
Final Say
The best step ladder is essential in everyone’s home. From reaching items in your kitchen to fixing ceiling fixtures, it’s multipurpose. And to be able to ensure safety, you always have to buy from reliable brands.
Our list contains an array of step ladders for your different needs. And you can never go wrong with our top choices.