The best option for kids is the Classic Step Stool from Pottery Barn Kids. Last, consider how you store the step stool and whether you need a portable model. There's also a three-step and a four-step option if you need something taller. Made of high-impact plastic, this affordable stool boasts an impressive capacity of 300 pounds. Always try to store your step stool as close as possible to the area where you intend to use it. At the end of the day, we aimed to show readers how each step ladder would perform under similar circumstances with everyday tasks in any home. Like step ladders, step stools are also a popular choice for domestic and commercial use. As expected, step ladders and step stools come in different sizes and heights, but they also have different features, depending on their intended use. The Cramer Kik 1001 is a superiorly constructed rolling stool. It folds down to 1.75, so its easy to store when not in use. I do a lot of repairs and painting and this tray really comes in handy. Find and evaluate OEMs, Custom Manufacturers, Service Companies and Distributors. Thanks to the integrated handle, it's easy to carry around too. The handy tray that is mounted at the correct level is a must item. We like the Vess Step Stool from WFX Utility. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. California Do Not Track Notice. While it's expensive, the visually pleasing appeal and multifunctional design might be worth a splurge. Step ladders go a bit higher and can come in handy for various home improvement tasks such as hanging art and for painting. We consulted four small-space experts to help you decide what to buy (and not buy) to optimize your small apartment. We have an abundance of lovely gift recommendations that would probably go over better than a step stool. Ive bought a bunch of 32-Inch Extra Long Grabbers because theyre affordable, come in packs of two, and had tons of positive reviews when I bought them, she said. If space is an issue, choose a step stool that folds up to store in a closet or hung on the wall. Regardless of their size, all step ladders and step stools are subjected to the same strict guidelines for proper use that meet safety standards. Generally speaking, you can stand on the uppermost step of a step stool. Deane is a member of The Spruce's Home Improvement Review Board. The lightweight design and compact folded configuration make it easy to tote around your home or bring on the go. I like that the steps are wide, so my whole foot can stand on it, unlike a ladder [which] gives you that wobbly feeling., A good alternative to a step ladder for kitchen use is a well-built folding step stool. I feel very confident and safe using this stool., If youre after the best industrial step stool, check out the Little Giant Ladders safety 2-step step stool which is built to last and easy to handle. This single-step stool provides a sturdy nonslip surface that makes it a great choice for everyday use. Hello! And Jackie bought multiples of the Cosco Two-Step All-Steel Step Stool. Theresa Holland is a freelance copywriter covering tools, cleaning supplies, and organizational solutions for The Spruce. I own both the ladder and two-step stool in black, and theyve both been essential for the various household tasks you could need some extra height for: reaching a cabinet, changing a light bulb, trimming the Christmas tree. Jackie hasnt used these grabbers to retrieve heavy jars. Far too narrow, in fact, to feel comfy on the climb. In true 21st-century fashion, the internet is teeming with option. And, of course, lighter models generally are easier to carry around. Overall, I tested 15 step stools and evaluated each one through a series of subjective and objective questions. One of the most important considerations when buying a step stool is its sturdiness. 10+ million models from leading OEMs, compatible with all major CAD software systems. ico-arrow-default-right. The step ladder is possibly the most popular type of ladder. Was hoping for some durability and I received it 100%. Get daily tips and tricks for making your best home. Thankfully, I have no scars to prove this theory, but Im sure it was only just a matter of time. Whats more, its tall enough to help you reach the top shelf of a kitchen cabinet, items stored on top of your fridge, or whatever else you need to check off on your to-do list. This Delxo folding 4-step ladder will help you reach higher spots easily and safely. It checks off a lot of boxes for most; its lightweight, and it collapses or folds for exceptionally easy storage. Perfect for any DIY or household project, it features a locking, oversized platform top with a built-in space to store tools, hardware, or any other supplies, and it also has a handy flip hook feature, where you can hang buckets of paint or cleaning solution. Kikkerland Rhino II Easy Folding Step Stool, Best 3-Step: And while it may look a bit pedestrian, it gets the job done with relatively little fuss. This heavy-duty step stool is made of lightweight aluminum and does not disappoint when it comes to comfort and safety. My name is Sharon Brandwein, and I am vertically challenged. It is very sturdy., If you are looking for the best step ladder for kitchen or home use, the HBTower 3-step ladder is an excellent choice. Subscribe now for unlimited access. One of the more important assessments in this category was whether or not my foot fit squarely on the step. The answer depends on what you need the step stool for, and your personal preferences. If this sounds too utilitarian, note that this sleek unit comes in eight chic colors. Now that we have that out of the way, Ive brought in an Ask Wirecutter consultant, 5-foot-2-inch senior staff writer Jackie Reeve. And it costs around $60. Some have extra safety such as wide steps and platforms, and anti-slip pedals and handrails. Recommendations are independently chosen by Revieweds editors. This is one of the best folding step ladders for everyday use, and one satisfied customer wrote, [It's] sturdy to step on. The best height for a step stool is based on the ages and heights of the people using it. Remember to factor in the weight of various materials when selecting a folding step stool that you put away and take out regularly. Material: Solid oak | Dimensions: 20 x 22 x 14 inches | Weight Capacity: Not listed. Chemin AE, et al. Depending on the layout of your home, you might store a step stool in a utility closet, kitchen pantry, or folded up and wedged between freestanding appliances. Material: Aluminum | Dimensions: 54 x 32 x 18 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds, If portability is a priority, we recommend the Polder Slim Folding Step Stool. Second, the release latch that returns it to a folded position can be a bit tricky to operate. That said, the non-slip feet are generously sized to keep the step stool in place, and they wont mar your floors if you drag the step stool around. Staff writer Katie Okamoto recently wrote a lovely ode to stools. So my first piece of advice is to think about how your house is set up, and then move items that need to be frequently accessed to middle ground. Some have wheels for easy transportability, and the material, weight, and load capacity are also important factors. Theresa Holland is a freelance writer specializing in home improvement, cleaning, and bedding. Thomas Regional are part of Thomasnet.com. This one is also a tad heavier, and when going up and down a flight of stairs, those 2.9 pounds make a difference. The simple and elegant Hasegawa Lucano comes in two-step, three-step, and four-step versions. I do a ton of farm chores, and I didnt realize how much my shortness would impact day-to-day life until we bought this place, Jackie said. This is a sturdy step stool with a weight capacity of 200 pounds that makes an excellent choice for reaching higher items in the pantry, the kitchen, and just about anywhere else you need to in the rest of the house. Additionally, they can't be taller than 32 inches and must be non-adjustable, meaning you can't adjust them to make them taller or shorter. Made of solid oak wood, with rounded edges and a natural finish, this piece nods to minimalist and mid-century-modern decor. Looking for something more wallet-friendly? You can stow away your bare-bones utility step stools you dont enjoy looking at. These two-step stools run neck and neck in terms of price, but a lighter step stool will always have an edge in terms of convenience and ease of use. This step stool is worth an honorable mention, as it is the second best 2-step stool we tested. Stay up to date on industry news and trends, product announcements and the latest innovations. This Rubbermaid step ladder is one of the best step ladders to buy if you are looking for a generous-sized tray that can hold a good number of tools, or a paint can and brushes. Check out the Kikkerland Rhino II Stool. Read our, Frontgate Ultralight Slimline 2-Step Stool at Frontgate, Gorilla Ladders 3-Step Ladder at Home Depot, WFX Utility Vess Folding Step Stool at Wayfair, Design Within Reach Altura Step Stool at Design Within Reach, Pottery Barn Kids Classic Step Stool at Potterybarnkids.com, What to Consider when Buying a Step Stool, Best Overall: 10 genius ways to organize your home with packing cubes, What You Should Know About Buying a Step Stool, 7 ways to keep everyday items within reach at home, 6 ways to make doing laundry easier when you can't bend, reach, or lift, Honey-Can-Do TBL-02977 Folding Step Stool, Cosco Two-Step Big Step Folding Step Stool with Rubber Hand Grip, AmeriHome 2-step Steel Folding Mini Ladder, Great Value Plastic Folding Single Step Stool, Duro-Med Industries Step Stool with Handle. The Rubbermaid two-step aluminum step stool is durable yet lightweight. Design Within Reach Altura Step Stool, Here Are the Best Garden Stools to Work in Comfort, Best for Kids: However, this particular step stool by Cramer is trusted by a lot of happy customers equally for domestic and commercial use. Our issue with this step stool lies in the lift and assembly. When youre doing chores around the house like dusting ceiling fans, changing light bulbs, and the like, the height of your step stool matters. One satifsied reviewer wrote, It is really lightweight and really steady. Its also easy to fold up and store. But the Schoolhouse Utility Stool she adores is geared more toward holding decor items or being used as a seat than as something to stand on (and it doesnt have a listed weight limit). Read More, Tall and lightweight, this stool is slightly unsteady. Sharon Brandwein is a writer specializing in parenting, commerce, and content marketing. My spouse is short. Need something for contract work or home improvement projects? Thanks to its compact size and practical designit only takes up 2.5 inches of space when foldedits also a great choice for apartment or condo living where storage space is limited. It's a great pick for kids who need help reaching the sink, potty, or counter. Considering how compact it is, this step stool would be great for any room in the house, not to mention ideal for small quarters where space is at a premium like apartments, dorms, and even RVs. The two-step version weighs just 7 pounds and has a 250-pound capacity. 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While the stability of a step stool is important, its not really something you can assess unless youre shopping in a brick-and-mortar store. It features a comfort-grip handle, a slip-resistant surface, and rubberized feet. Step stools vary in height and number of steps. Made of light yet durable aluminum in your choice of five colors (black, red, silver, teal, and white), it weighs only 9 pounds and has a 225-pound capacity (somewhat low compared with other models). And, while its not incredibly difficult to carry this step stool around the house and up a flight of stairs, its still a little cumbersome. The Rubbermaid RM-PL1W folding 1-step plastic stool is a heavy-duty step stool with a 300-pound load capacity that folds down to just 1.2 inches for easy storage in the pantry, behind the door, and practically anywhere else. Material Design & Processing Communications. Advice, staff picks, mythbusting, and more. One of Jackies fixes is to keep grabby sticks everywhere to extend her reach. The best one for you depends on your style, space, and budget. Having reviewed the best step ladders and step stools available on Amazon, we think that the Little Giant Ladders Flip-N-Lite, 5-foot stepladder is an excellent choice for those who are looking for the best lightweight yet durable step ladder, while the Cosco 11308PBL1E two-step folding step stool is a popular and trusted step stool if you want a smaller ladder for everyday use. This step ladder folds compactly to 2 inches thick for compact storage. This is one of the best lightweight step laddersweighing just 12 poundsand its slim and compact design allows this step ladder to be carried around with ease. productslearn more about Wirecutter no longer exhaustively tests step stools, and we retired our full guide to them in 2020 (though we do have some former picks still in circulation). While its probably not going to be a furniture piece thats a part of your dcor, its also worth mentioning that this step stool has a contemporary design, with neutral black and gray coloration, so not an eyesore either. It's lightweight, slip-resistant, easy to store, and easy to carry, courtesy of the integrated handle. The widest step on this step stool is generously sized at 14.2 inches, and those with an average-sized foot wont feel like theyre teetering when stepping up. We also like that the Vess has slip-resistant steps and grippy feet to help prevent falls and floor scratches. If youre, shall we say, vertically challenged, everyday tasks and maybe some not-so-everyday tasks may be a bit of hassle. This is not an exhaustive list of questions, but you get the idea. Her work has also appeared on Bustle, Elite Daily, ABCNews, Motherly, and Parents. To make life easier (and safer) reaching high places, a step stool can be infinitely helpful. The 14-inch platform provides a sturdy surface to step on, and its solid steel construction can hold up to 350 pounds. While this step stool performed relatively well on the assessment, it lost some points for its weight and construction. Some customers report wishing the lower two rungs were a little wider, as it would allow you to stand at each level. Since beauty is in the eye of the beholder, here are some workable step-stool options, in our opinion. To answer the objective questions, I looked at things like the weight of the step stool and whether it required assembly. stool step dreambaby bath plastic baby stools bedbathandbeyond potty bed registry Step ladders and step stools come with different features and accessories. I feel like weve been on an upward journey here, and I want to reinforce that while youre adding one of these recommended step stools to your cart, you should also buy her a real birthday gift. It has vinyl bumpers around the base to prevent it from damaging your walls and furniture. Learn more. These grabbers are comfortable to use with her dominant hand, which has mild arthritis. guide to the best gear for small apartments, Cosco Signature Two-Step Folding Step Stool, Gorilla 2-Step Aluminum Step Stool Ladder, The Best Squatty Potty and Other Toilet Stools Worth the Floor Space. You may also find that youre wasting valuable storage space in your top kitchen cabinets simply because they arent easily accessible. Our journalists combine independent research with (occasionally) over-the-top testing to save people time, energy and money when making buying decisions. While we wish it were a bit more affordable, there's a lot to love about Frontgate's Ultralight Slimline Stool. This thing rolls without effort thanks to its hidden casters which lock down when stepped on. For life below 5-foot-3-inches, you have to be mindful of how you organize everything, from kitchen cabinets to the linen closet. I was a bit surprised how well the HB Tower step stool stacked up among its competitors. Step stools are fabricated in a range of materials, from plastic to aluminum to wood. Step ladders range in size from 420 feet in length along the side rail, while step ladders shorter than four feet are considered step stools. All Rights Reserved. He can now reach in and over the top of the tall vehicles. The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. A satisfied Amazon shopper wrote, Its extremely sturdy but lightweight enough to move around. Our best overall pick is the Frontgate Ultralight Slimline 2 Step Stool, a lightweight yet durable model made of aircraft-grade aluminum that comes in eight colors. The American Ladder Institute provides useful information respecting proper care and safe ladder use. In fact, when my husband and I got married about 16 years ago, one of his first gifts to me from his favorite store (Home Depot) was you guessed it, a step ladder. Your home is one place where you can directly control accessibility. Crafted from aluminum, the Rubbermaid RMA-2-Com step stool is durable yet lightweight. These are the best step stools we tested, ranked in order: The Honey-Can-Do folding step stool wins our Best Overall award for its taller-than-average lift, its lightweight design, and because it's easy to store. Additionally, the 19-inch elevation will certainly get you into the far reaches, and it has a 225-pound weight capacity. lucano At 5.9 pounds, not only is it great when you need to grab the casserole dish from the top shelf, but its also pretty easy to tote around the house and carry up the stairs. The Lucano is made of powder-coated aluminum and is easy to fold, and it stands up on its own when its in a folded position. The HB Tower is the best three-step ladder we tested, and one of its best selling points is its extra-wide pedals. Now that we both work from home, Im tired of having to reach stuff on the high shelves for her all day long. The only real downside of the Rhino II is that it only offers one foot of elevation, but if that's all you need, it's an excellent choice. So, to spare you the headache of an exhaustive search, we spent a day conducting our own thorough assessments and found the Honey-Can-Do folding step stool (available at Amazon for $16.62) is the best among the 15 we tested. Recommendations are independently chosen by Revieweds editors. Its high handrail is also padded for extra comfort. Folds up super thin for storage between cabinets.. Read More. Handling it for a short period of time during this test wasnt terrible, but I can certainly see this getting increasingly annoying over time. If youre willing to forsake some visual pleasure for price, multiple Wirecutter staff members have versions of the Cosco Signature Two-Step Folding Step Stool, which has a more budget-friendly price (in the $40 range) and comes with a limited 10-year warranty. Overall, the Duro-Med Industries step stool is pretty robust. 2022 Reviewed, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network LLC. Also available as a 4-foot and a 6-foot step ladder, its a truly great purchase for everyday simple tasks, bigger DIY projects, or even professional use. This step stool is pretty compact as well. She owns multiple strong, compact step ladders, so she doesnt have to go hunting for one or ask for help when she needs to reach something. It doesn't fold up, but the versatile silhouette looks like something that you could easily feel good displaying. Ask Wirecutter, an advice column written by Annemarie Conte, explores the best approaches to buying, using, and maintaining stuff. However, step stools are slightly different than step ladders. And, while that thing has been with us for all this time, I too came up with clever ways to get the things I need from tall shelves. Material: Powder-coated steel, vinyl, rubber | Dimensions: 16 x 8 x 16 inches | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds. When searching for the best step ladders and step stools, we focused on two very important factors: safety and comfort. Theyre much easier to stash around the house and in the truck, she said. kitchen tower helper safety step helping stool ahead kid mom child baby safely chair mommy help learning stools cooking cook Jason has had his for two years; if you amortize the cost per use and factor in the aesthetic pleasure, maybe you, like Jason, will feel its worth the investment. Its weight capacity is 225 pounds and it can be easily stored when folded. Material: Steel | Dimensions: 22 x 18 x 2 inches | Weight Capacity: 225 pounds. This step ladder is made of lightweight, durable aluminum, and although it weighs only 8 pounds, it can support up to 250 pounds of weight. Having to climb up grocery-store shelves or onto kitchen counters to reach the upper cabinets is a well-established #shortgirlproblems meme. While this stool doesn't fold up, it's compact enough to tuck into the corner of most bathrooms, and handles on each side enable easy carrying. It flips open easily for use and locks in place when opened Super design, very sturdy., Youve likely come across a step stool similar to the Cramer 100143 Kik-Step steel step stool in library corridors, stores, or warehouses. The number of steps listed in the product description can help you figure out the highest surface you can stand on. Credit: Reviewed / Jackson Ruckar, Cosco 2-step Big Step Folding Step Stool with Rubber Hand Grip, AmeriHome 2-Step Steel Folding Mini Step Ladder. If you're looking for something with a higher weight capacity, consider the HBTower 3 Step Ladder, which can hold up to 500 pounds.). Cramer Kik 1001 Rolling Step Stool, Best Utility: It has a steel frame that, although durable, just adds too much weight, which can and will be annoying when youre toting this one around the house. Step stools come in handy for a wide range of decorating, organizing, and home improvement tasks such as hanging artwork. She referenced OSHA's safety guidelines to help guide her product selections. Reviewed's mission is to help you buy the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. With only a 9 inch lift, it wont get you very far, and assembly was a little more than I think most people would bargain for. Jackies main takeaways: But you, A.K., asked about step stools, which are another thing Jackie spreads out around the farm. We've updated our Privacy Policy, which will go in to effect on September 1, 2022. See What is the best height for a step stool? With a weight of just nine pounds, this is one folding step ladder that can be carried around with ease. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission. Thomas uses cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. In addition to the height of the stool, its probably a good idea to consider the weight of the step stool, which has plenty of implications for its ease of use. Step stools are pretty much short ladders, so safety is important here. What do buyers say? This number usually ranges from 220 to 350 pounds, so make sure the step stool is sturdy enough to safely support anyone who uses it.