Which step stool is best?
While step stools are far from glamorous purchases, they’re investments that pay dividends in convenience. Whether you’re using one to reach the top shelf of a closet or as an under-desk footrest, step stools offer a helpful lift when you need one.
Step stools are available in various shapes, sizes, materials and heights. There are a few specialty step stools on the market as well, including some that fold, have storage or are made for children.
How do step stools help around the home?
Step stools, as well as step ladders, help individuals reach high objects, including those on upper shelves or on top of furniture. They help some individuals reach sinks or climb into platform or raised bed frames. Some people, including work-from-home professionals, use low-lying step stools beneath desks as footrests as part of ergonomic office setups.
Key considerations for step stools
Step stool features
While step stools appear to have simple designs, many of them have unique features that add to their convenience or safety.
Slip-resistant treads prevent step stools from sliding when you step on them, and slip-resistant platforms help users maintain stable footing.
Handles and cutouts make step stools easier to move and carry.
Folding step stools and step ladders fold into slender designs that fit inside tight spaces such as behind doors or in between furniture.
Certain step stools have built-in storage, such as tool trays or drawers.
Several step stools and step ladders have between two and five steps, giving users more than one height option.
Step stool materials
Step stools are usually made of plastic, wood or metal. Plastic designs are affordable and easy to clean, but they may not support as much weight as other materials. Wood step stools have simple, classic designs that complement most décor, but they require care and cleaning to remain looking their best. Metal step stools are durable and support high weight capacities; however, they have industrial appearances that may appear out-of-place in some spaces.
Step stool weight limits
Most step stools list maximum weight limits, which typically range from 70 to 500 pounds. These limits are listed for safety reasons and shouldn’t be ignored. Additionally, some step stools indicate that the weight limit only applies to evenly distributed weight, and they aren’t stable if you bear all your weight on one side of the platform.
Step stool cost
Basic step stools with low weight limits cost $25 and below. If you’re looking for a durable design that supports more weight, be prepared to spend $30-$50. Step stools priced at $50 include handcrafted wood step stools as well as step ladders with more than three steps.
Best step stools
Angels Kids’ Best Friend Step Stool: available at Amazon
Simple and stable, this kid-friendly step stool is often kept in bathrooms to reach the seat or function as a potty platform. It has an anti-slip top and bottom to prevent slips and falls.
Birdrock Home 2-Step Aluminum Folding Step Stool: available at Amazon
This modern step stool is made from aluminum, which makes it lightweight and easy to carry. The strong, well-balanced design has a 250-pound weight limit and an extra-tall handlebar for added stability.
Personalized Kids’ Step Stool: available at Etsy
This personalized 9-inch pine step stool features engraved names painted in pastel or primary colors. The stool arrives fully assembled, and its finish is water-based and non-toxic.
Rubbermaid 2-Step Molded Plastic Stool: available at Amazon
Made by a trusted brand, this two-step plastic stool has a rugged design that holds up well to frequent use. It’s easy to clean, considering users can simply hose it down.
RORKEE Wood Step Stool: available at Amazon
An elegant design, this stool has a real wood platform and sturdy iron legs. It lifts users six inches in the air, making it easier to reach sinks and tall shelves.
EdMaxwell 4-Step Stepladder and Toolbag: available at Amazon
Ideal for home improvement projects, this four-step ladder has plenty of bells and whistles. Besides several safety features, including a locking design, it has an attachable tool bag and non-marring legs.
Melissa & Doug Kids’ Wooden Step Stool: available at Amazon
Made for kids up to 100 pounds, this Melissa & Doug stool is known for its easy assembly. It has a cool gray finish that blends in well with most décor in playrooms, bedrooms or bathrooms.
COSCO Folding Step Stool: available at Amazon
This metal step stool has a classic folding design that makes it suitable to store in most rooms. While it’s a lightweight stool, it’s a stable, wobble-free design that supports up to 200 pounds.
Acko 9-Inch Folding Step Stool: available at Amazon
Well-received for its compact design, this pop-open step stool is often used to help younger kids reach sinks and kitchen counters. It’s available in two widths and six colors.
Sian Babish is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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