Reach New Heights With the Top Step Ladders

The number one thing you should always look at with a step ladder is the maximum weight rating. If the weight rating is 300 pounds, then don’t step on it if you weigh more than that or if an object you have in your hands makes your total overall weight more than the ladder's max weight capacity. Not paying attention to this rating can create an unsafe situation for you and anyone else around you, with the possibility of the ladder collapsing while standing on it and injuring yourself or others.

It’s also important to evaluate the construction and stability of the ladder before purchasing. Step ladders are mainly made with materials like aluminum, fiberglass, or wood, while some smaller versions are made with sturdy plastic. Even if you only need a 3-ft tall step ladder, you want to make sure it’s sturdy enough to safely do the job. Aluminum ladders are a great choice because they are sturdy but relatively lightweight. Wood ladders can be nice, but they are often pretty heavy and cannot fold up as small as other types can. No matter what material you choose, ideally, the ladder will have rubber feet so as not to slip on or scratch the floor. 

Additionally, you have to consider the step ladder height. While a taller step ladder can help you reach higher up, it will also take up more space in your garage. It will also be heavier and more difficult to carry the taller it is. So, a middle-ground step ladder height may be a better option for easy storage and portability. 

If you have the opportunity to test out various step ladders, try stepping on a few of the steps and shifting your weight slowly to see if the ladder shifts with you. The ideal ladder won’t move at all and feel very solid and sturdy. Of course, it's tough to completely simulate how you’ll be using the ladder and the stress it’s going to be put under, but you should be able to get a general idea of its sturdiness this way.

Once you have determined the maximum weight rating you need and understood the importance of durability and stability in a step ladder, now it's time to look at some other features that can make a step ladder truly exceptional.

The overall weight of the ladder is something buyers often overlook when buying a step ladder, and regret later on. You don’t want to buy a ladder so heavy that you can’t move it around without breaking your back. However, many multi-purpose ladders are worth the extra weight since they are essentially multiple ladders in one due to their convertible construction. The ideal weight of your chosen step ladder comes down to the frequency of use, the height you require, and your ability to carry a heavy load, among other factors. You must consider them all before making a decision.

Depending on the amount of storage space you have in your home or apartment, you must prefer step ladders that can fold up to such a height and width that it can easily fit into the available storage space. You are unlikely to use a step ladder every day, so keeping it out of the way when it’s not needed is important, at least for most people. Some ladders can fold up small enough to fit in between a wall and a refrigerator, at the back of a closet, or in other similarly small spaces. Evaluate your storage area and you can then compare the folded dimensions of the ladder you’re interested in to reach a conclusion.

Anyone who lives in an apartment or a house can benefit from having a step ladder. A good step ladder is much safer than standing on a chair, countertop, or any other relatively unstable elevated surface that people often use to access high places. Even if you require an elevation of just a couple of feet to hang a picture frame exactly where you want it, it’s worth the investment to get a small step ladder to perform the job without risking yourself.

Many people don’t realize how often they would actually use a step ladder if they had one readily available, so it’s a small investment with a great return in safety, convenience, and accessibility. Whether you’re the weekend DIY warrior or work in a profession where a step ladder is often needed, having a couple of different ladders can make tasks much easier and safer. You may need a ladder for indoor use only, or you may need one that can handle regular use. Evaluating the types of tasks you’ll be performing on the ladder can help you narrow down your options.

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to stepping ladders, but many variants offer plenty of unique features that can be very helpful to you and allow you to perform ladder-specific tasks with greater ease. Starting off with a basic step ladder, to help you perform routine tasks like changing light bulbs is definitely a good place to start. Then, if you decide you want to start a major project like painting your house, trimming trees, or cleaning gutters, you can invest in a taller step ladder. Your needs can keep changing, but remember, there is a step ladder out there that can make your life much easier. 

Storing a Step Ladder

It's no secret that step ladders or an extension ladder can take up quite a bit of space in the garage. However, there are a few ways you can store your step ladder efficiently. Renee Romeo shares some tips and tricks for easy storage in this video: