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Best Step Ladders in 2021 – (Reviews and Buyer’s Guide)

February 4, 2021 by Ethan Jones 20 Comments

Best Step Ladders ReviewLadders have been utilized for centuries as a way to allow people to reach up higher. A ladder can also be quite dangerous to use, especially inside your home.

Step ladders are perfectly suited to remaining in your home on a daily basis to assist you in almost any task from reaching a high cupboard or for cleaning.

The current number of step ladders available for sale is staggering, to say the least. Finding the best one suited to your specific needs may seem hopeless. Fear not, we have reviewed ten of the finest step ladders on the market and created a helpful guide to assist in helping you find your perfect step ladder.

Table of Contents

  • 1. Little Giant Safety Step Ladder 10310BA : All Around Favorite Option
  • 2. Cosco Two Step Rockford Wood Step Stool 11254MGY1 : Most Aesthetically Pleasing Option
  • 3. Louisville Ladder 4-Foot Step Ladder FS1504 : Best for Outdoor Use
  • 4. Little Giant Flip-N-Lite : Most Versatile Step Ladder
  • 5. LivingSURE Folding Four-Step Ladder with Handrails 354173 : Safest Feeling Top Step
  • 6. LivingSURE 3-Step Handgrip Ladder Stool Combo 347701-4325 : Excellent Moderately Priced Choice
  • 7. Rubbermaid 3-Step Ultra Light RM-SLA3-T : Best Lightweight Step Ladder
  • 8. Werner 150B Two Foot Ladder : Best for Keeping Woodland Creatures Out
  • 9. Winsome Wood Antique Walnut Step Stool 94022 : Gorgeous Step Stool Option
  • 10. Polder Mini 2-Step Stool 90401-91H : Great Bargain Price Option
  • Best Step Ladders – Buyer’s Guide
    • Do I Really Need a Step Ladder?
    • The Different Styles of Ladders
    • Step Ladder Safety
    • You might also enjoy

1. Little Giant Safety Step Ladder 10310BA : All Around Favorite Option

Little Giant 10310BA ReviewThe Little Giant Safety Step Ladder offers a strong and safe platform for reaching and completing any higher up tasks.

The step ladder has been crafted from lightweight space-grade aluminum, which is both easy to lift and move while being extremely durable and sturdy.

Our testing team loved that it can be easily opened with just one hand, which comes in handy when working alone or dealing with messy projects.

The Safety Step is an extremely heavy-duty option, capable of holding 300 pounds per step. It’s also simple to move from one area to another area thanks to its Tip & Glide Wheels. Just tip the ladder onto to the wheels and roll it to wherever your project leads you to next.

Pros
  • Each step holds 300 pounds
  • Super lightweight yet very durable and sturdy
  • Set up and collapse with one hand
  • Tip & Glide Wheels make moving a snap
Cons
  • Somewhat expensive compared to similar versions, but the extra features make the step ladder well worth the price

2. Cosco Two Step Rockford Wood Step Stool 11254MGY1 : Most Aesthetically Pleasing Option

Cosco 11254MGY1 Rockford Series ReviewThe Cosco Two Step Rockford Wood Step Stool earned top marks from our testing team thanks to its gorgeous design. The step stool is crafted from wood and is available in white or mahogany.

The steps measure up to 13 inches by 19 inches, allowing you to have enough room to feel steady and uncramped during use.

The Cosco Two Step Rockford Wood Step Stool folds up to flatten out enough to store easily in smaller nooks or beside a refrigerator, for example. For this price, you would be hard pressed to find another step stool that will look as lovely as this one does.

Pros
  • Gorgeous step stool
  • Top step locks in place for safety
  • 225-pound capacity
  • Easy to set up and use
Cons
  • The safety release lever can be a bit tricky to use the first few times you want to fold it up for storage
  • May not be as stable under heavier weights

3. Louisville Ladder 4-Foot Step Ladder FS1504 : Best for Outdoor Use

Louisville Ladder FS1504  ReviewThe Louisville Ladder 4-Feet Step Ladder FS1504 is a perfect addition to any home. Our testing team loved that this offering from Louisville Ladder looks more similar to a traditional ladder, rather than a step stool.

It has been meticulously crafted from fiberglass with a smooth and elegant design that is as light as it is functional.

We loved using the 4-Foot Step Ladder from Louisville to assist as we hung up holiday displays and lights.

The height offers a slightly taller reach than traditional step ladders. It feels much sturdier and safer to stand on than many other versions thanks to a heavy-duty bottom brace which lends additional holding strength to the ladder.

Pros
  • Taller than most step ladders
  • 300-pound weight capacity
  • Heavy-duty option with molded spaces to help hold your tools
  • Perfect for working outside or during home repairs
Cons
  • Use extra care if you need to set the ladder up on hardwood floors so it does not scratch the floor

4. Little Giant Flip-N-Lite : Most Versatile Step Ladder

Little Giant Flip-N-Lite ReviewThe Little Giant Flip-N-Lite is an industrial-rated step ladder suitable for construction work or for simply reaching your favorite serving dish from the top cabinet. Our testing team was thrilled with the level of adaptability afforded by this ladder.

The steps are roomy enough to accommodate our testing team member that wear’s size 14’s as well as it did for our smaller footed ladies.

The Little Giant Flip-N-Lite folds up to a very slim profile making it a snap to store in between uses. The ladder is extremely stable and durable, despite weighing in at a mere 12.5 pounds. This step ladder is a terrific choice for individuals needing a more adaptable option for a multitude of uses.

Pros
  • Holds up to 300 pounds
  • Versatile
  • Durable and well made
  • Very light
Cons
  • Some testers felt a bit wobbly on the top step

5. LivingSURE Folding Four-Step Ladder with Handrails 354173 : Safest Feeling Top Step

LivingSURE 354173 ReviewThe LivingSURE Folding Four-Step Ladder with Handrails understands that standing on the top step of a step ladder can quickly turn into an anxiety-ridden experience.

Unlike many of the other models we looked at, this step ladder feels stable and safe when standing at the very top step.

This feature may not seem that important, but if you have ever had to switch out a smoke alarm battery in the middle of the night on a rickety step ladder, you’ll understand.

This offering from LivingSURE has also been fitted with safety handrails to add extra security during use. The steps have anti-slip treads to allow for more secure footing. Overall, this step ladder is one of the safest-feeling options on the market.

Pros
  • Safety handrails
  • Very stable
  • Holds up to 300 pounds
  • Folds up easily for space saving storage
Cons
  • Somewhat heavy and clunky to move around

6. LivingSURE 3-Step Handgrip Ladder Stool Combo 347701-4325 : Excellent Moderately Priced Choice

LivingSURE 347701-4325 ReviewThe LivingSURE 3-Step Handgrip Ladder Stool Combo features extra wide steps to ensure safe and comfortable footing.

Each step also has been crafted with anti-slip treads to ensure your safety and stability further while in use.

The step ladder locks into place as another way to keep you from falling and sustaining a serious injury.

Our testing team loved the moderate price point of the LivingSURE 3-Step Handgrip Ladder Stool Combo. We also appreciated that the manufacturer understands that sometimes we all need to take a break and created a handrail that doubles as a backrest. Anytime you need to rest you can sit comfortably on the top step until you are ready to continue.
Pros
  • Extremely sturdy and durable
  • Terrific price
  • Supports up to 300 pounds
  • Several safety measures including anti-slip treads, safety lock, and extra-wide steps
Cons
  • This step ladder is a tad bit heavy so take care when moving it from one location to another

7. Rubbermaid 3-Step Ultra Light RM-SLA3-T : Best Lightweight Step Ladder

Rubbermaid RM-SLA3-T ReviewThe Rubbermaid 3-Step Ultra-Light RM-SLA3-T is one of the lightest step ladders we had the pleasure of testing. This option clocks in at a mere eight pounds, which is extremely easy to lift and move. It also folds down for space saving storage when not in use.

This offering from Rubbermaid has been crafted from aluminum, so in addition to being super light, it is also extremely durable and sturdy.

Our testing team loved that the ladder has a built-in project tray, so you will not be forced to climb up repeatedly and down the ladder to grab extra supplies. We also appreciated the super comfortable padded handgrip which was helpful for our team members with arthritis.

Pros
  • Lovely price point
  • Has a weight capacity of 225 pounds
  • Extremely light at just eight pounds
  • Built-in project tray
Cons
  • One testing team member noted that the steps caused pain in her feet when using for longer periods of time

8. Werner 150B Two Foot Ladder : Best for Keeping Woodland Creatures Out

Werner 150B ReviewThe Werner 150B Two Foot Ladder has been designed with a platform that measures at six inches in width and a little over a foot in length. It easily accommodates a wide range of foot sizes.

Each step has been fitted with traction-tread to reduce the likelihood of slips. Our testing team members liked that this model looks like a smaller version of a traditional ladder.

The Werner 150B Two Foot Ladder is able to support 300 pounds quite easily. It is a heavy-duty option featuring a molded black plastic top which creates a large platform to stand on. This option will give you an extra two feet in height which is great for kitchens.
Pros
  • A heavy-duty and sturdy choice
  • Traction-tread helps you to avoid slipping
  • Double braces on the bottom step
  • Pinch resistant spreaders
Cons
  • Without handrails, this ladder feels somewhat less safe than other options

9. Winsome Wood Antique Walnut Step Stool 94022 : Gorgeous Step Stool Option

Winsome Wood 94022 ReviewThe Winsome Wood Antique Walnut Step Stool 94022 is a beautiful folding step stool. The stool features two different levels to allow you to reach both lower and higher items.

This option has been created with both composite and solid wood before being treated with an Antique Walnut finish, giving it a sophisticated appearance.

The Winsome Wood Antique Walnut Step Stool supports up to 250 pounds. Our testing team members loved the clean lines of the step stool in addition to its beautiful finish. This step stool would be perfect for a home bar or a kitchen.

Pros
  • Beautiful step stool
  • Supports up to 250 pounds
  • Folds up when not in use
  • Two different levels for lower and higher reaches
Cons
  • The stool is a bit difficult to assemble
  • This option does not feel as sturdy as the other step ladders on our top ten list

10. Polder Mini 2-Step Stool 90401-91H : Great Bargain Price Option

Polder 90401-91H Mini 2-Step ReviewThe Polder Mini 2-Step Stool is a wonderful option at a very low price. This stool consists of two steps and weighs only eight pounds.

The steps are large and have been covered with soft, rubber non-skid pads to ensure your safety during use.

The Polder Mini 2-Step Stool has a spring-loaded safety lock to keep the stool in position. Our testing team felt extremely safe on this small stool.

It folds down to just over one inch for simplified storage. While it only gives you about 17 inches of height, it is very sturdy and would work well in a kitchen.
Pros
  • Two-step stool
  • Very sturdy and durable
  • Impressive price point
  • safety locks and anti-slip steps
Cons
  • Lacks the height of other options but works perfectly for reaching smaller heights

Best Step Ladders – Buyer’s Guide

A step ladder is the perfect tool to add to your current arsenal of helpful items. From assisting in minor repairs around the house or hanging up holiday decorations, a step ladder can be useful in a plethora of situations. They are also often safer to use as opposed to traditional ladders which aren’t very practical for daily use around the house.

Best Step Ladder Buyer’s Guide

With so many step ladders available, it can be confusing and difficult to understand which features actually matter and which ones don’t. While researching and testing our top ten step ladders, we learned so much about them that we wanted to craft a helpful shopping guide to demystify the process. Let’s get started!

Do I Really Need a Step Ladder?

If you already have a traditional ladder, you may wonder if you truly need to purchase a step ladder. A step ladder is a safer way to reach higher. Many come with special safety features, which we will explain in full a little later on.

Step ladders are also an economically sound decision as most cost just a fraction of an eight-foot ladder. They are made of lighter materials to allow smaller people or folks with mobility concerns to move and set them up easily. A step ladder also helps people of shorter stature be able to reach items at the very top of a closet or cabinet, making them a very useful and helpful item to have in your home, apartment, or business.

The Different Styles of Ladders

There is a range of styles to choose from when looking for the right step ladder for you and your needs. To gain a better understanding of the differences in step ladders and other ladders in general, let’s take a look at the full range of items available.

  • Step Ladder: A step ladder is the most commonly used ladder across the board. The step ladder can support itself, so it won’t need to be propped up against a wall. You can use it in the middle of a room to help you swap out a lightbulb, in the kitchen to reach things, or outside. They are usually able to be folded down for space saving storage.
  • Extension Ladder: An extension ladder is sometimes referred to as a straight ladder. They are tall and must be leaned up against a wall. These ladders consist of two main parts: a “base” piece that must be firmly situated on the ground and the “fly” which is movable to extend as far up as needed.
  • Platform Ladder: Platform ladders are similar to step ladders. This option is a front step ladder with a larger platform on which to stand as you complete your tasks. They offer a much more comfortable standing experience for jobs that require standing on the ladder for long periods of time.
  • Step Stool: Step stools are terrifically handy to have in any home or business. They consist of one step and fold down almost completely flat to slip in easily between your fridge and wall or any small area.
  • Multi-purpose Ladder: Some ladders are able to serve several purposes. The ladder can be changed into different positions to help you complete a wider range of tasks or projects.
  • Telescoping Ladder: A telescoping ladder has been designed to slide up and down through the use of overlapping pieces. These ladders can extend into an extension ladder or can also shrink down to a smaller, more compact version. They are also often lighter than traditional extension ladders.
  • Folding Ladder: As the name suggests, folding ladders fold up when not in use to save space. This version is handy for around the house chores and has larger steps as opposed to the skinnier rungs on some ladders.

Step Ladder Safety

The safe and proper use of your new step ladder is just as important as finding the best version. Emergency rooms across the country see thousands of injuries related to falls from a ladder or from improper use. We care deeply about your safety, so here are some handy tips and tricks to stay safe as you use your new step ladder.

  • Do as much work towards your project on the ground. Only use the ladder when it is necessary as the longer you are on it, the greater the risk for an injury or accidental fall.
  • If your ladder is extendable, ensure that it is properly locked into the correct place. Use caution when locking the ladder into place. Some ladders have parts that can easily pinch or injure your skin by pinching or cutting you.
  • Don’t carry heavy tools while on the ladder. If you need to use tools while on the ladder, find an option that has built-in tool holders or invest in a tool belt. Some step ladders also have built-in trays to help hold items which will allow you to focus on the task at hand, rather than losing your balance as you try to juggle tools.
  • Maintain 3 points of contact while on the ladder. This includes your two feet and a hand, for example.
  • Select a step ladder with handrails to steady yourself.
  • A step ladder is meant to support just one person. Do not try to use it with more than one person.
  • Always inspect your ladder before use. As with any item, they can age and become worn out. Check for cracks, missing or damaged portions, bent steps, or worn out rubber feet. If the ladder is compromised in any way, do not use it.
  • Select a step ladder that locks into place. Some versions have spreader bars or stays that lock into place.
  • Set up your step ladder on firm, even ground.
  • You should be facing the step ladder while one it. Turning to the side or back can disrupt your center of gravity and lead to a fall.
  • Position your step ladder as close as possible to your project. Move the step ladder as needed rather than reaching out further which can also increase the likelihood of an accident.
  • Wear appropriate shoes. Bare feet or feet in socks can easily slip off the ladder.
  • Work in a well-lit area free of clutter.
  • Watch out for small children and pets. They can knock into the ladder which can lead to you falling off.
  • Do not overload the ladder. Check before use for any weight limits.
  • Fold your step ladder up and store it in a safe place. Children love to climb and play on step ladders, which is a recipe for disaster.

Finding the best step ladder or step stool for you and your needs can be a long process. With thousands of options, it can be difficult to ascertain which will work best. Keeping your intended uses and projects in mind will be extremely beneficial in aiding you to select the best step ladder.

Remember to always inspect the ladder before use and use the step ladder only for its intended purpose. All ladders can be dangerous, regardless of how short or tall they may be. Following our safety tips will help to keep you safe from falling or sustaining any severe injuries.

We hope you enjoyed our top ten step ladder reviews and gained useful insight with our step ladder buyer’s guide. We love hearing from our readers. Drop us a quick note below with your step ladder tricks and tips.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Kate says

    April 1, 2019 at 3:19 am

    I like the design of Little Giant Safety Step Ladder 10310BA and the fact that I can adjust it with one hand. Recommend to everyone who wants a good ladder which will support you during renovations.

    Reply
  2. frank says

    April 1, 2019 at 3:19 am

    I wish I’d found your website before I ordered step ladders for me and my parents. They are so expensive compared to good options represented on your site. Thanks for the information, in the future I won’t be so silly.

    Reply
  3. Rita says

    April 1, 2019 at 3:20 am

    When I bought the previous step ladder, there weren’t such websites. I just looked at it and said: “I’ll take it”. But after the renovation, we need to change it. And now it seems like I’ll make a choice for months.

    Reply
  4. Maria says

    April 2, 2019 at 1:12 pm

    The most important thing about a step ladder is its sturdiness. So, I’ve found an ideal option – Little Giant Safety Step Ladder 10310BA. I’ve never seen such a light but sturdy ladder in my entire life. Recommend to everyone!

    Reply
  5. Levi says

    May 2, 2019 at 6:38 am

    I’ve been using the ordinary step ladders from a local shop as I didn’t know there are so many of them. So now I’m spending hours and hours looking for an ideal option.

    Reply
  6. Nina says

    May 25, 2019 at 4:59 pm

    Safety handlers and stability of LivingSURE 354173 gave me the feeling that this is the best step ladder. I recommend it for everyone who’s searching for a cheap and high-quality product at the same time.

    Reply
  7. Hillary says

    July 6, 2019 at 5:15 pm

    Just look how good Louisville Ladder FS1504 looks! It seems like this ladder isn’t a ladder, but a part of the interior. So, if you’re concerned about the design – this is an option for you.

    Reply
  8. Ali says

    August 13, 2019 at 1:28 am

    I haven’t found my ideal step ladder yet, but after reading this article it seems like I’ll finally do it. You’ve represented here great options, so I’m sure one of them is durable and steady.

    Reply
  9. Mark says

    September 4, 2019 at 1:43 am

    Is it really difficult to find a step ladder? That’s what I thought before I really started searching for it. I didn’t know there are so many things to look at. Thanks for collecting them all in one place!

    Reply
  10. Beta says

    October 5, 2019 at 1:38 pm

    Just look at how cute Louisville Ladder FS1504 is! I always thought that ladders are ugly and can’t deliver any positive emotions by their looks. But this ladder changed my mind! Also, it seems to be sturdy and durable.

    Reply
  11. Elly says

    November 7, 2019 at 5:11 am

    The Cosco Steps are a very convenient size for a small apartment. It doesn’t take up much space and provides the desired height. Reliable steps

    Reply
  12. Moly says

    November 29, 2019 at 5:26 am

    The most optimal variant of the ladders in my opinion is The Little Giant Safety Step Ladder. it is light and safe; I use it constantly and don’t complain)

    Reply
  13. Mika says

    December 8, 2019 at 9:14 am

    Until now, I thought that there are one or two options for step ladders, but it turned out that there are lots of them. Now I know where there is a selection of quality goods!

    Reply
  14. Kenny says

    December 29, 2019 at 8:05 am

    The finish on Cosco is actually pretty resilient, which is very surprising. So its not going to look like garbage if it gets dinged a little bit.

    Reply
  15. Gabrielle says

    January 5, 2020 at 10:41 am

    The steps of Cosco seem firm and able to support my weight. I’m not a small person but then again I’m not large.

    Reply
  16. Henry says

    January 28, 2020 at 3:26 pm

    This type of item is tricky to purchase online because you can’t touch and feel it to decide if it will meet your needs. But we were lucky! LivingSURE is what we want!

    Reply
  17. Nancy says

    February 6, 2020 at 5:32 pm

    LivingSURE uis very reliable and strong. After all it’s high enough for me to clean the tops of my kitchen cabinets, or more importantly, change the batteries in the smoke alarms, and the lightbulbs on the front porch! Those places are all my “sky”

    Reply
  18. Fred says

    April 2, 2020 at 6:00 am

    I can easily carry the Little Giant Flip-N-Lite ladder(label says it is 12.5lbs) with one hand and it folds very flat, making easy to store. And with free shipping, I did not have to worry about getting the ladder home from the store.

    Reply
  19. Jina says

    April 28, 2020 at 1:08 pm

    OMG! Who knew I would be EXCITED by a Flip-N-Lite Ladder!!! I just got this and Love it! I am 60, 5’2″ and feel VERY Safe and Secure on this.

    Reply
  20. Liana says

    May 5, 2020 at 2:24 pm

    I’m very happy that I can now change the batteries in my smoke detectors by using the LivingSURE step. That is more than a little risky with most regular step ladders.

    Reply

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