Best Step Stools Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Phyllis W
Chantelle Fowler
Have you ever tried to get out of bed and realized you could not reach the floor unaided? At that moment, you may have realized you need equipment to aid you to get out of bed without calling out for help. A step stool is essential equipment that everyone should have. It is necessary for reaching low heights where a ladder may not be required. For instance fixing bulbs, removing cobwebs high on the ceiling or reaching out to large branches amongst others. You may be on a search mission for the best stool to suit your need. Here, we have narrowed down the options for you, and we shall also discuss the main factors that make our selection the best.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 10 hrs of research
It is of ideal height
It is sturdy and foldable
It has ANSI III certification
Has a wide base for maximum balance
Has a rough textured surface thus no risk of tripping
It is a high capacity stool that can support any weight
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Handy Laundry -
Jeronic
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Rubbermaid
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Greenco
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Cosco
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Acko
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Spranster
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Angels
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Delxo
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StepSafe
- Criteria Used for Evaluation
- Other Factors to Consider
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sources
10 Best Step Stools
1. Handy Laundry
It is of ideal height
It is sturdy and foldable
It has ANSI III certification
Has a wide base for maximum balance
Has a rough textured surface thus no risk of tripping
It is a high capacity stool that can support any weight
Some reports of it collapsing while in use
If you are looking for a high-capacity option to help you reach certain heights, the Handy Laundry is our top pick since it’s a decent option with perfect wide and grippy steps.
Read moreStudier and collapsible design
The Handy Laundry is a sturdy piece of equipment that will support you well as you reach heights or as you try to do some tasks like tying your shoe or propping up your feet after a tiring day. It has perfect height and foldable design that allows it to collapse for easier storage. Therefore you don’t have to worry about it adding more clutter in your house. You can neatly tuck it under your bed or inside your closes.
Safe to use
No need to worry about tripping off since the steps have bits of rubber. The foot has rubber nubs thus ensuring a firm grip on the floor. It has a rough dotted surface that makes it safe for every use kids and adults included. The foot pads are anti-skid and have passed ANSI III certification.
Cost and value
If you are constantly looking for something to step on every time you want to grab something on the top shelve, then you have found the right equipment that supports any weight. The Handy Laundry is a great product that will serve your needs perfectly. You will be happy with the purchase and can't beat the price.
2. Jeronic
Affordable
Has a foldable design and is sturdy
Portable thus easy to carry around
Made of durable material
Safe for use by children and adult alike
Elegant colors with unblemished texture
Some users complained of cracks after a few months of use
Don’t buy a small ladder or don’t drag heavy chairs to reach heights, buy this product which is a high capacity option made of premium plastic to support a weight of up to 300lbs. It's ideal, not only for you but your kids too. It is of perfect height and will elevate you if you need to reach for something up there. It is foldable, so you can easily store it when not in use and is portable with a durable handle. Therefore you can carry it wherever you want to go. You can use it in the bathroom, kitchen, and much more. It measures 11x9x11 inches.
Read moreSafe and portable
It is a safe product to use since it has a top with dots thus creating a rough surface ideal for both children and adult. It has a foldable design, and while using the center to pick or fold, it will not pinch your hands. The design also allows for easy storage, and you can tuck it somewhere neatly. It also means you carry it with much ease. Who said it is only for adults? It is lightweight thus means even small children can carry it around.
Durability
At first glance, you may be mistaken to think it is a low-quality cheap product available in the stores near you. However, it is durable and made from high-quality material which is rust free. You can thus use it in the shower without the risk of corrosion or electrocution.
Cost and value
If you are thinking about picking the Jeronic, then it means you are looking for a sturdy piece of equipment and would like to get the best bargain for this product. It is not only elegant but also costs incredibly low and will give you value for money.
3. Rubbermaid
Has a three sturdy steps
Has a foldable design thus easy to store
Has an elegant silver finish
Has an ideal height
The only downside is that it is quite heavy and bulky therefore may not be suitable for small children
Rubbermaid brand makes some exceptional products, and this stool is no different. It is pretty workable and folds in a flat design allowing for easier storage anywhere in your house. You only need one hand to expand it to an operation angle and is strong enough to support the weight above. You don’t have to be Tinker Bell; you can use this remarkable equipment to reach places high above and for general use while in the house.
Read morePerfect size
The Rubbermaid weighs 13 pounds and has a perfect size with a wide base that provides a firm grip on the ground guaranteeing a sturdy feeling. It has an interlocking design that locks it open thus no risk of it collapsing while you are standing on it. It is of the ideal height measuring at 27.25 inches, therefore tall enough to reach higher places such as top cabinets. It has a foldable design; thus you can easily store in your pantry.
Sturdy
If you are having trouble bending due to back pains or finding it tiresome dragging heavy chairs to reach top drawers, the Rubbermaid is a sturdy stool with large, strong steps thus no risk of tripping and falling. It has a comfortable handle that provides for a comfortable grip.
Cost and value
The Rubbermaid has an excellent silver finish making it have a classy, elegant appeal that gives an impression of expensive equipment. It costs more but performs exemplary. It is your must-have helper that gives you value for your money.
4. Greenco
Pretty affordable
Has a foldable design thus easy to store
The handle allows you to carry it around easily
Made of durable material
Safe for use by children and adult alike
It is elegant with a dotted surface for safety
On each pivoting leg, there some tiny holes that can bruise or injure children's tiny fingers.
Have you been having difficulties watering your hanging plants? Or better still, have you been trying to reach top shelves with many challenges? Then you must have realized that you need something to step on to reach those high places. If you are looking for a sturdy piece of equipment to use around the house to reach heights, the Greenco will come in handy. It has a 300 pound capacity and measures in at 11x8.5x11 inches.
Read moreEasy to use
The Greenco has a foldable design and ideal for use for both children and adults. It gives your kids the height they need to use around the house, either in the bathroom, kitchen or outdoors. It is user-friendly with a comfortable handle, and you can easily push in the sides with even one hand, and you are all set. It is elegantly designed with dots on the surface ensuring you and your family are safe while standing on it.
Sturdy
The Greenco is a made of strong, durable material that will last for long. You do not have to worry about tripping and falling since the surface is dotted with a rough texture. It has a wider base for a stable balance, and the legs have rubber material to grip the ground while you are on top. The steps also have rubber; thus you won’t slide as you step.
Cost and value
The Greenco is costs less, yet it is useful equipment at home, with elegant features and stable design. It is a great purchase; you won’t regret spending your money on it.
5. Cosco
It can be used in the house to reach cabinets, light cleaning, and closets and many more tasks
It is lightweight thus portable
It is stable and made from sturdy material
It folds conveniently and pretty easy
There are two strong steps. Accordingly, you can choose your preferred height
The instructions are not clear on the weight description. However, most stools have a maximum limit of up to 300lbs.
The Cosco 2-step will give you a much needed height to reach those high places. It is uniquely designed with two steps and suitable for use for both children and adults. The legs of the stool ensure your floors remain clean and neat since they are non-marring. It is lightweight, and you can easily carry it around for tasks around the house. It measures 17.9x17.3x28.2 inches and has ideal height, not too short or too tall.
Read moreEasy storage
If your apartment or house is small, you don’t have to worry about adding another extra tool since the Cosco folds in well to a flat position. The collapsible designs also allow for easier storage, and you can easily tuck in under the bed, in your closet or lean it against the wall.
Sturdiness
This is strongly built and made from durable material that will last long. It is high capacity equipment that can support any weight for both kids and adults. It has a broad base that ensures it stands comfortably and with maximum balance. The steps are made of non-slip material and thus provides a secure standing.
Costs and value
If you are home alone and there is no tall person around to help you reach high heights, the Cosco will give you a boost. This piece of equipment costs unbelievably low, yet it has a lot to offer in terms of quality and performance. You will not regret your purchase by having this remarkable product in your house.
6. Acko
It is of ideal height for both children and adults
It is sturdy and foldable
It has EN 14183 certification
Has a wide base for optimum balance
Has a rubber dots textured surface thus no risk of slipping
It is a high capacity stool that can support any weight
There is a need for external certification when it comes to safety standards.
If you have fallen countless times while climbing on chairs or standing on tiptoes, thus lacking proper balance, then the Acko is the answer. You will feel absolutely safe standing on this product. It is sturdy, durable and does not require assembly to start using. It is 16-inches in height and is suitable for use by both adults and children. You can use it around the house and in outdoors, for instance in your garden.
Read moreDurable
The Acko is a durable piece of equipment made as per Acko standards which is a world-renowned brand. It is made of high quality sturdy plastic and built to last. It is safe to use and has EN 14183 certifications, thus safe for you and your children. The corners are round and protect you from crashing. It has rubber dot on its surface, and each foot has a rubber strap to ensure maximum grip thus giving you comfort and prevents slipping.
Portable
The Acko is incredibly lightweight, and the hand is comfortable, and after use, you can fold it pretty easily by using just one hand. It is thus easy to carry, and your children will not feel the weight.
Cost and value
When it comes to picking Acko products, you can never go wrong. This stool will not disappoint since it is made of premium quality material to guarantee durability. It is the best choice and a good purchase worth the price.
7. Spranster
Sturdy
Foldable design
Portable thus easy to carry
Rubber dots on the surface thus prevents slipping
Has a wide base for maximum balance
Few concerns that it starts cracking after a few months of use.
If you are looking for quality and durability, then the Spranster is your perfect personal assistant in the house to help you reach those high places. It is America's best stool and a favorite amongst homeowners. It is built to last, made from premium sturdy plastic which makes it super strong and safe to hold up to 300 pounds.
Read moreGuarantees safety
It is sturdy with a wide base that ensures maximum stability. The top has rubber dots are skid resistant, and the feet have rubber grips thus does not slide when you are on top. It is safe to use for you and your children as well and is also quite versatile, and you can use it around your house such as the bathroom, kitchen, and garden or even at the office.
Convenient
This folds conveniently and pretty easily. It opens fast with only one hand and folds in a flat position; thus you can store it anywhere in your house without adding more confusion. It is easy to carry around since it has a comfortable handle and the children can also carry it since it is also lightweight.
Cost and value
This product is quite manageable and convenient when it comes to cleaning and reaching things. It is also reasonably priced and will not hurt your budget. If you are looking for a product that will be your assistant in the house, I would highly recommend the Spranster. It is a good buy worth every penny.
8. Angels
Sturdy and comfortable to use
Has non slip surface
Ideal for small children
Lightweight and convenient to use
It has no grips on its base to prevent it from sliding on tile floors
If you are looking for an option specifically designed for small children both girls and boys then the Angels product is our best pick. We choose this product since it is sturdy, small and ideal for little children training on how to use the potty, reaching things on their toys table, or reaching for their toothbrush in the bathroom.
Read moreSturdiness
From a distance, you might be mistaken to think it’s just another plastic piece of equipment. However, the Angels is made from first-grade plastic material which is also incredibly lightweight made for tiny hands. It is portable with non-slip grips, and your child can carry it with ease.
Safe to use
This item has a non-slip surface so your child will not slip and fall while standing on it. It has a wide base which has maximum support for a weight of up to 70 pounds. It stands at five inches from the ground; therefore a toddler can use it as well.
Cost and value
The Angels is an elegant piece of equipment that you must have in your home especially if you have small children. It is remarkably durable and costs less, yet it is essential since it guarantees your children’s safety around the house.
9. Delxo
It is sturdy and durable therefore will support almost any weight
It has a foldable design thus easy to store and carry around
Wide usage around the house
The handle allows for a convenient grip
It has ideal height, therefore, can be used by adults and children too
It is safe to use since the surface is made of non-slip rubber
Has a wide base for maximum balance
It is pricey, however worth every penny
If you are looking for a versatile option to use around the house for various tasks, the Delxo is a sturdy piece of equipment designed to help you reach high places. It is made of is high quality material and is incredibly lightweight weighing only 11.9 pounds. It can hold a maximum load of up to 330 lbs. It is of suitable height with the ladder opening at 30x18.5x23 inches and folding at 35x18.5x4 inches. It has been approved by TUV and has GS certification so you can rest assured knowing this option has a mark of safety and quality.
Read moreEasy to use
The Delxo packages come pre-assembled in a safe and simple design therefore easy to open by just pressing the pedal above. It has a foldable design that allows for easier storage and portability. The surface has a rough rubber texture for that is non-slip. It has a wide base, and the legs are fitted with rubber nubs; thus it maintains maximum balance while securing the stool in place to prevent slipping.
Versatility
The Delxo has wide usage and assists you around the house and outside to reach places you would otherwise have difficulties reaching. Such as reaching for things on top cabinets, use in the bathroom, out to while cutting large branches and in the office among other places.
Cost and value
It might cost more as compared to other brands. However, it a high-quality piece of equipment made to last. It is just what you need for your everyday use and thus worth every penny you spend.
10. StepSafe
Stable to support a maximum weight
It is portable and easy to carry
It is safe to use
Costs less and is durable
It is too short and does not have a wide base
The StepSafe is sturdy yet lightweight option designed for use around the house. It is ideal for both grownups and children. Because of its light weight, children are able to carry this with ease. You can use it to reach cabinets, top shelves and top surface cleaning among other uses.
Read morePortability
The StepSafe has a foldable design that allows you to carry it anywhere you go. It folds neatly in a flat position, and the handle offers a comfortable grip. It is a super space saver and therefore you can tuck it away in a convenient corner or under the bed.
Safety
It has safety features such as the surface which has dots made of rubber; thus you or your children will not slip and fall while standing on top. The steps are sturdy, so you are guaranteed safety.
Cost and value
The StepSafe is pretty affordable and yet has so much to offer. It is a necessity around the house because t will help you to get the job done. You can have at a low cost and be assured of quality.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Size
While shopping for equipment to help you reach high places such as top cabinets, or shelves or cleaning the top walls in your house, consider the size, height, and width of the stool. It is essential to enable the balancing of the stool and ensure your safety and that of your children while standing on it. A stool with a narrow base and one too high might be unstable and unsafe to use whereas one with a wider base would stand firmly on the floor making it more stable. The height and width should be balanced for maximum stability. The design of bedside stool can have extra features such as a high handrail taller than your bed’s height. However, the height of the step should be lower than the bed to leave some space for you to step on while seated as you prepare to get out of the bed. The bedside stool mainly consists of only one step while one for climbing to reach out to high heights consists of several steps. These steps are designed to reach out to different heights. Nevertheless, your specific needs will dictate which size of stool you would require. Also, factor in the storage space available to choose the right size of stool.
Durability
When shopping for a stool to help you reach high places, ensure it of sturdy construction, and the joints are firmly held together using strong bolts to prevent it for collapsing under your weight. The stepping platform material should be preferably made of rubber for the comfort of your feet. Most of the stools usually have rubber dots that grip the feet thus preventing you from slipping and falling. The rubber grips or nubs should be fixed on the piping legs to make the stool grip firmly onto the floor. The legs should be topped with rubber to make them grip tightly onto the floor, to prevent sliding on the slippery floor and to prevent the legs from scratching and damaging the floor. Tubing should be of good quality material, and the piping material for the stand and the handrail should be strong, and the painting should be of high quality. Upper rail should be rubber made to fortify hand grip and to prevent any injury and slipperiness to the hands. The stepping platform should be made of a material that is easier to dust or clean considering it can be stepped upon even with shoes.
Value
The market is awash with step stools of all sizes, shapes, and forms. But, has it ever occurred to you that not every product advertised out there may do the job as intended? Most often, users of products usually have high expectations when shopping, and of course, that is absolutely in order. Nobody wants to spend their hard earned money on a product, only to go back the drawing board after a few days, weeks or months. A step stool is no exception when it comes to customer expectations in regards to price and quality. There are those people who have a perception that a priced item is the best, while this may be true in some scenarios; it may not be 100% reality. If you are operating on a small budget, don’t go looking for those overpriced stools that may not deliver as expected. Look for one that is reasonably priced and most importantly one that will give you value for money.
Weight
When searching for a stool, you will find that most of them have a capacity of holding up to 300lbs. It should be capable of holding different weights considering they are designed for all sizes of people both adults and children. It should be lightweight and portable so that you can with it quite easily; a child should also be able to carry it when folded. However, it should also be not too light since it may not hold firmly to the ground as you climb on it. Most stools for home use are made of sturdy plastic material, and whereas those made of aluminum which is a weighty metal are ideal for external use. While thinking about children, you can go for a fiberglass stool which is portable and lightweight.
Materials
If you are buying a stool to use around the house, most likely, it will be used by both grown-ups and adults. It is essential to buy one that is made of lightweight material such as plastic or fibreglass. If you are buying it to use outdoors in the garden or the office, then those made of aluminium and steel are a perfect choice. Aluminum and steel stools are cheap and readily available on the market, while fibreglass material is used and is the best for electrical projects. It is because it is not a good conductor of electricity and chances of electrocution are therefore minimized. Plastics may not be long lasting and are not suitable if the stool is to be used frequently. Stools made of steel or aluminum is ideal for regular use due to their durability
A step stool is a must-have piece of equipment in your home. It helps you reach low heights where a step ladder may not be necessary. It is useful in preventing common accidents at home such as slipping and falling while trying to reach heights by use of chairs and other available equipment at home.
A step stool is a useful piece of equipment at home and is useful while trying to reach heights around the house. It has no boundaries whatsoever when it comes to functionality. It is used by both adults and children to assist in accomplishing specific tasks in the kitchen, bedroom, outdoors, office and much more.
Other Factors to Consider
Ease of Use
At home, you need equipment that will be of help when it comes to doing some basic chores such as reaching for something on top shelves, cleaning the high walls, watering hanging flowers, getting out of bed and helping children reach for something on the table and use in the bathroom for Potty training. While these are some of the uses of this important product, it does help in the house, and every homeowner should have it. Gone are the days or pulling heavy chairs to climb and reach things; this may not be ideal since you end up breaking it or falling and hurting yourself. Children too may not unable to climb high chairs. Therefore, while picking one, ensure it is easy to open, use, collapse and carry.
Portability
This product should be easier to fold in a flat position as it makes it easy to store and carry around. While searching for one, check to ensure its construction allows you to collapse the stool with ease and look at the design of the joints and whether it would require regular oiling to prevent friction. Before using the product, ensure the manufacturer’s instruction are clear and if not, contact the customer service for further guidance. The handles should be comfortable to grip, and this is also useful while carrying around.
Capacity
While shopping for a stool to enable you to reach high places such as top cabinets and shelves, it is essential to look at the capacity in regards to the maximum weight it can hold or support. Most stools in the market can support a weight of up to 300 pounds, and that is the generally accepted standard as far as your security is concerned.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What is a step stool?
It is a multipurpose piece of equipment commonly in the house, outdoors and office for reaching high places. It is an essential tool that every home should have and is used to reach low heights where a ladder may not be necessary. For example to reach for something on top cabinets, to fix bulbs in the house and to fix some minor repairs. If you have some overgrown branches outside the home, you can use it to reach and cut them off or even water hanging walls. You can also use it to clean the upper walls, and if you are hosting a party or celebration, you can use it when decorating the walls. It is also crucial if you have small kids who are Potty training, they can use it in the bathroom or even reaching for something on top of the table.
q: Is there any difference between a step stool and a ladder?
Yes, there is, however, it may be confusing to some people since when it comes to design, shape, and appearance the two share some concepts such as a wide base for balance. However, a step ladder is more like an inverted V, and a step stool is just that, a stool with steps for easy climbing quite small and lightweight. A ladder can reach greater heights, more sturdy and versatile, unlike a step stool which may only reach low heights.
q: Are step stools children friendly?
There are different varieties of these stools available for use both domestic and commercial. While shopping for home use, look for one which can be used by adults and children as well. It should be lightweight, sturdy with a non-slip surface to prevent your child from slipping and falling. It should be of ideal height with steps that have bits of rubber to ensure safety when the child is climbing. The legs should have rubber nubs, and the base should be wide for stability and balance.
