The Flip-N-Lite 300-Pound Duty Rating 6-foot Stepladder is our best step ladder which stands at a height of 6 feet. Moreover, it also comes with a convenient platform so you are rest assured of your safety. The slim profile makes it a versatile and lightweight step ladder. It is very easy to store and has a duty rating of 300 pounds.
Our step-up pick is the Little Giant 15422-001 22-Foot Multi-Use Ladder and it comes with convenient wheels so you can easily move the ladder from one place to another (which also makes it great for libraries). It has a duty rating of 300 pounds. Do know that this is a multi-use ladder and can be converted in many ways. It stands at a height of 22 feet, which is remarkably tall for any ladder system and compiles with the standards of ANSI and OSHA so it is an industrial-grade step ladder.
The budget pick is the Cosco 11-880PBLW2 Max Platinum Work Platform and it has a total of 3 wide steps. It is great for those who need platform work and is a type 11 ladder with a duty rating of 225 lbs. It conforms to the ANSI standards while the step treads are slip resistant so you stay safe. The folding and locking release mechanism can be done with just one hand for convenience.
A Little Background
A step ladder is usually a shorter type of ladder. Compared to other ladders that are usually leaned against the wall, most step ladders are made already with a set platform for it to stand on, much like a built-in staircase. It has been specifically designed with extra wide steps for safety.
Step ladders are designed for casual home use so you don’t have to depend on a wobbling chair to reach cabinets and perform painting jobs. Most people purchase a step ladder for painting jobs and home decorating because they do not want to sacrifice the life of their kitchen stools and chairs just to reach that extra high cabinet and / or shelf.
Most step ladders usually have trays and paint can holders specifically for painting jobs. In fact, some step ladders are so convenient that they have so many compartments in their tray so you can worry less about holding all the materials together and focus more on balancing on the ladder while working on your task. This eliminates all the frustration that you can get when you try to get your job done more efficiently and neatly.
In terms of weight, step ladders are quite heavy but they are not so if you have a step ladder with only 2 to 4 steps. The step ladder is designed to stay on the ground and not laid down leaning on the wall. It is obvious that most of them can be a bit heavy to carry but all of this will be worth it because you can use it as a replacement for your stool in reaching stuff around the house or office with ease.
The extra width of the step ladder is what makes it really ideal for rigorous tasks around the house or on your office. This is why they are also called platform ladders. So it you are looking forward to using chairs and stools a lot just to reach certain areas of the house then you should just buy a step ladder instead because they are safer and more convenient to use than regular chairs that can be potentially dangerous if you stand on them.
How We Picked
When it comes to the best step ladder, here’s what we followed:
The duty rating of the step ladder should be considered. This pertains to how much weight capacity the step ladder can hold on to. This is also usually designated by the governing body such as ANSI or OSHA. Make sure you know your capacity so you will not waste time with a low duty rating ladder.
It would be nice if you have a step ladder that has tool trays and paint can trays. This can eliminate the hassle of having to use a table or some large stool for you to dip your paint and perform house decorating or finishing. A tool tray makes DIY work safer and more efficient.
If the step ladder has only a minimal number of steps, let’s say 2 to 5 steps, the step ladder should have extra wide steps to be a true platform step ladder. The idea of a platform ladder or a step ladder is to set up large platforms for you to do your job best on. This is why it was designed to have a flat and solid set of steps so that you will stay safe no matter what.
The step ladder should be easy to store and have a slim thickness when folded. The thickness should be around 3 inches or less when folded so that it will be easy to store on any compartment or garage when it is not in use or when you take it with you on your truck or car.
The max height that the step ladder can reach is important. To avoid overreaching, you should get a step ladder that has extra height off the floor so you can maximize your time and effort in the long run.
The safety features such as nonskid feet of the step ladder should be counted. The rubber feet should also have a non-marring feature so it will not damage the flooring of your house, especially if you intend to use the step ladder indoors for painting jobs, redecorating, and the like.
Do know the material of the step ladder. Some step ladders are made from aluminum while some are made from fiberglass and some are also made of steel. It depends upon your budget, preferences and weather type. This is because a step ladder that is made from fiberglass material is only typically found on cold countries whereas aluminum and steel is commonly found on tropical and warm countries.
Do know if the step ladder complies with OSHA, ANSI, CSA and other safety standard governing bodies. This allows you to be assured of the quality, safety and security as well as durability of the step ladder in question. If it meets or exceeds any of the following standards then you are assured that what you will buy will be of great quality.
Our Pick
Flip-N-Lite 300-Pound Duty Rating 6-foot Stepladder
The Flip-N-Lite 300-Pound Duty Rating 6-foot Stepladder is our best step ladder. It has a duty rating of 300 pounds. The design makes it very easy to store and the ladder stands at a height of 6 feet. When it comes to the design, the slim profile makes it a versatile and lightweight step ladder. It also comes with a convenient platform so you are rest assured of your safety. It is a step ladder that is made from sturdy aluminum material.
What’s more, the Flip-N-Lite 6-foot Stepladder is a type IA step ladder in which you can even open it up with just one hand. This step ladder is very safe to use. It is also super lightweight at only 14 lbs and is a big winner. The perfect ladder model for the DIY enthusiast or home owner, the Flip-N-Lite Stepladder conforms to the safety standards of the OSHA and ANSI when it comes to quality.
Moreover, the step ladder comes with a handy tool tray for your convenience while the standing platform has dimensions of 14 by 12 inches so you get more room to stand on. The fourth step has a height from the floor of 45 inches. The ladder also folds easily compared to most step ladders. It stands using rubber and vinyl composite legs that are slightly flexible and have non-marring capabilities so your flooring stays scratch-free.
The width of the ladder is 21 inches at the base while 13 inches at the top (16 inches at the platform). Being backed by a 1 year warranty, the Flip-N-Lite is truly ideal for apartments and most residential homes and is a great replacement for wobbling high chairs.
Flaws but Not Dealbrakers
Some people have only suggested that the Flip-N-Lite 300-Pound Duty Rating 6-foot Stepladder could have some hold closed device for the legs for further stability and easy transport.
Step-up Pick
Little Giant 15422-001 22-Foot Multi-Use Ladder
The Little Giant 15422-001 22-Foot Multi-Use Ladder is our step-up pick which stands at a height of 22 feet, which is remarkably tall for any ladder system. It also complies with the standards of ANSI and OSHA so it is an industrial-grade step ladder and comes with convenient wheels so you can easily move the ladder from one place to another (which also makes it great for libraries).
As for the max load, the 15422-001 Ladder has a duty rating of 300 pounds. In fact, this is a multi-use ladder and can be converted in many ways and this step ladder can be converted into an extension ladder that spans up to 19 feet. This awesome step ladder has a dual-pin hinge for added stability. In fact, it can be used as an A-frame ladder, a scaffolding system or a 90-degree ladder as well.
When converted to an extension ladder, it can span from heights of 11 feet up to 19 feet. The inner rung single sections measure 1.5 inches and 1 inch on the outer part. When stored, the ladder measures 9 inches in depth and 5 feet in its height. The stepladder height is at 5 feet and 7 inches while the base width of the step ladder is 27 inches. Also, when converted to an A-frame ladder, it stands between 5 feet to 9 feet in height.
In fact, the Little Giant Ladder can get around most obstacles, vaulted ceilings and over staircases. It also comes with slip-resistant feet for safety. Due to being made of high quality aluminum, it is also rust-resistant. This type IA or extra heavy duty step ladder has a total of 5 steps. It is very lightweight at only 39 lbs where you get 5 ladder uses for just one model.
What’s more, the wheels also have a locking feature. The ladder conforms to the standards of CSA as well so you know it is super safe to use. As for the technology, it uses a rock lock system so you can adjust the ladder quickly. Moreover, the wheels have a tip and glide mechanism for easier transport. Adding to that, the wide flared legs ensure durability and stability for the climber.
Budget Pick
Cosco 11-880PBLW2 Max Platinum Work Platform
Our budget pick is the Cosco 11-880PBLW2 Max Platinum Work Platform and it pretty much conforms to the ANSI standards. The folding and locking release mechanism can be done with just one hand for convenience and is a type 11 ladder with a duty rating of 225 lbs. It has a total of 3 wide steps and is great for those who need platform work.
The step treads are slip resistant so you stay safe. It is a step ladder with leg tips and glides of extra large size and are skid-resistant and non-marring. It also comes with a handy utility tray that has been molded to fit your pails, paint tray and much more and this feature makes it an ideal step ladder for painting jobs, whether it is at home or for industrial use.
In fact, you can also use it for a variety of household projects such as window cleaning, repair and many more. The grip handle has been extended with comfort in mind. The ladder overall has been made from sturdy steel material and weighs only 17 lbs. As for the design measurements, the top step has a height of 30 inches off the floor while the thickness of the step ladder is 3 inches when folded. The Cosco ladder is currently backed by a convenient 10 year limited warranty for the parts.
Step Ladder with 4 Steps
VonHaus Steel Folding Portable 4-Step Ladder
With the VonHaus Steel Folding Portable 4-Step Ladder, the four wide steps are nonslip due to its gripped treads. In fact, this ladder has a max load capacity of 330 pounds as it stands at a height of 50 inches when fully opened.
As for the measurements, each step has dimensions of 7 by 11 inches. Due to the compact size, it can be easily folded down for transport or storage. The construction is made from heavy duty powder coated steel for better durability. In fact, it can be set up on just about any flooring type due to the large non-slip feet for extra stability.
An ideal step ladder for commercial or residential usage or for DIY and similar projects, the VonHaus 4-Step Ladder is super portable at only 21 lbs of weight. Each step is distanced by 9 inches while the thickness of the ladder is 1 1/2 inches when folded.
Step Ladder with 2 Steps
Rubbermaid RM-2W Folding 2-Step Steel Frame
The Rubbermaid RM-2W Folding 2-Step Steel Frame has a capacity of 200 lbs and is a Type III step ladder and has a total of 2 steps that are extra wide. In fact, this step ladder stool has a steel frame for durability and it comes with a convenient hand grip.
The steps are made from sturdy plastic material while the steel frame is given a silver finish. The Rubbermaid 2-Step Steel Frame has a standing height of 19 inches off the ground. It is easy to carry and weighs only 11 lbs and has a total height of 35 inches. It has a reach height of 8 feet and the top step has a height of 28 inches.
Overall, the Rubbermaid RM-2W is definitely perfect for home use such as in the kitchen, garage, bathroom, bedroom or even in the office and other commercial establishments. This is because the large platforms make it easy and convenient as well as provide safety in the long run. The folded thickness is only below 3 inches so it is convenient to store. Also, the ladder feet have a non-marring design so your floor is safe. The Rubbermaid step ladder is currently backed by a 1 year limited warranty.
Best Tall Step Ladder
Cosco 2081AABLD 8-Foot Signature Step Ladder
Different from our budget pick, this step ladder, the Cosco 2081AABLD 8-Foot Signature Step Ladder, stands high at 8 feet. It is a type 1A step ladder that uses an aluminum box frame. It also comes with a security lock as well as a convenient carrying handle and is truly ideal for painting, DIY work, repairs, cleaning and much more.
As for the features, the Cosco 2081AABLD has a project tray for all of your tools and project stuff and it also has a paper towel holder. The tread design is nonslip so you stay safe and the large platform allows you to have more room while working on the ladder. It also uses a lock and release latch that can be easily folded by one hand only. It is easy to carry at weighs 22 lbs only. The sturdy aluminum material is not just rust-proof but also lightweight so it is bound to last for a long time.
Best Fiberglass Step Ladder
Werner 6208 300-Pound Duty-Rating Fiberglass Stepladder
The Werner 6208 300-Pound Duty-Rating Fiberglass Stepladder stands at a height of 8 feet. This is a type IA step ladder which is made from fiberglass material, allowing it to be efficient even outdoors on the cold weather because they are nonconductive. It has a duty rating of 300 pounds.
In addition, the Werner 6208 step ladder uses a lock-in accessory system for its holster top so you can put your paint can and other tools nicely without hassle. It measures 8.1 cubic feet (approximately) and uses Traction Tred technology on its steps that have a double-riveted design and are slip-resistant to keep you safe. The ladder has a width of 26 inches and a spread of 53 inches while the internal spreaders are heavy duty in construction.
As for the construction, the Werner Fiberglass Stepladder uses EDGE (energy diffusing geometry) bracing in its structure in which foot pads have been securely riveted and this adds to the durability of the step ladder. It is easy to carry and move around at only 28 lbs of weight and has been prepared for ToolLaso and JobBucket lock-in accessories. Moreover, the Werner 6208 300-Pound Stepladder is also OSHA certified so your safety is guaranteed.
Step Ladder with Handrail
Little Giant Ladder Systems 10410BA Stepladder
If you want a super safe step ladder then go for the Little Giant Ladder Systems 10410BA Stepladder. This step ladder has a sturdy construction so you can use it for years and it is great for use commercially or casually for home repairs. The large steps make it easier for you to work under pressure without compromising safety.
The 10410BA Stepladder is easily foldable so you can conveniently store it. Moreover, the ladder resembles a regular stairway due to the large steps as it has a total of 4 sturdy steps. Each of the steps is around 8 to 9 inches apart. The ladder measures 26 1/4 inches off the floor and comes with a handy handrail for extra security and stability. This is the unique feature of the aforementioned step ladder.
Made from corrosion-resistant alloy aluminum material that is set to last long, the Little Giant 10410BA Stepladder weighs 27 lbs as its max weight capacity is 300 pounds. It uses Tip-n-Pull wheeling technology for added mobility and transport ease and is backed by a 1 year warranty.
Best Aluminum Step Ladder
Louisville AS2106 250-Pound Duty-Rating Aluminum Stepladder
The Louisville AS2106 250-Pound Duty-Rating Aluminum Stepladder stands at a height of 6 feet. This aluminum step ladder has a load capacity of 250 lbs so it is rated for smaller usage. The aluminum step ladder comes with a plastic tool top that has been molded specifically for your tool convenience. This is a big plus because this allows the climber to stay at ease and get more comfort while working so they don’t have to fast break stuff from below up to the highest point of the ladder, which significantly reduces accidents.
Also, the AS2106 Aluminum Stepladder conforms to ANSI and OSHA standards when it comes to safety, durability and quality. As for the design features, the top part has a hardware tray, magnet tray, curved front, slots for tools and drills, holder for paint buckets, 2×4 holder and pipe holder. It has a total of 5 steps plus the top part tray and the rubber feet are nonskid and slip-resistant and made from aluminum material as well.
In fact, all 4 of its legs have thick rubber treading. The ladder is super easy to carry at only 15 lbs and it also meets CSA standards. The ladder comes with a pail shelf that has auto-tilting action. A must-have for any household for simple painting jobs and redecorating, the Louisville AS2106 Stepladder is under a limited warranty by the manufacturer.
Step Ladder with 3 Steps
Best Choice Products Shade 3-Step Ladder
If you want a 3-step ladder, you should get the Best Choice Products Shade 3-Step Ladder. The steel construction of this step ladder is of high quality. The ladder has a duty rating of 330 lbs and comes with a convenient tray for holding your tools or a can of paint.
A great space saver due to the conveniently slim design, the Shade 3-Step Ladder has a total of 3 extra wide platform steps. It is super safe and uses nonskid rubber feet to protect you from accidents. It is also lightweight at only 18 lbs.
When folded, it has a thickness of less than 3 inches. The space between the steps is 9 inches while the height from the floor is 27 inches. Each step is extra wide at 9, 18 and 27 inches. The Best Choice Products Ladder is currently backed by a warranty of 60 days. We definitely recommend this step ladder if you only need an average of 3 steps that are extra wide to give you more room for your work.
The Competition
The other step ladders out there were a bit too misleading when it comes to their descriptions and were not certified by safety organizations. They were also not extra wide as a step ladder, which is important in any step ladder, regardless of height reach.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are safety tips you must do when using a ladder or a step ladder?
A: According to Werner Ladders , you should properly set up the ladder and you should not stand above the second step. Also, do know that closed step ladders should not be climbed on to avoid accidents so you should make sure you grip firmly and have your body centered while climbing the ladder.
Another thing that you should remember is that you should always climb facing the ladder to avoid injuries. As a matter of fact, it is not safe to climb a ladder when you are under the influence of alcohol, just as you wouldn’t want to do drunk driving. You should be in your best condition and you should stay alert whenever you climb any ladder, whether it is a step ladder or not.
As a general rule, never over-reach from the ladder and make it a habit to just go down and reposition the ladder because this is highly dangerous. Moreover, always check the max load capacity of the ladder to avoid falling over and breaking the ladder itself. In fact, you can depend on someone else to help you carry a big ladder or to help out and support as you climb the ladder. Last but not the least, be very careful when climbing up the ladder and going down.
Q: What are the good things about using a step ladder or platform ladder?
A: They provide you with more room to step on so they are practically safer even if they are lower in height. Also, they are typically used like stools to eliminate the need to grab a wobbly chair that poses dangerous threats to your safety. Platform or step ladders also avoid leaning against the wall due to being a stand-alone ladder that lets you work peacefully without damaging the walls of your house or office.
Despite being heavier than typical ladders, they provide you more grounding and safety. Moreover, they are typically the best pick when it comes to painting jobs around the house.
Wrapping It Up
To summarize, the Flip-N-Lite 300-Pound Duty Rating 6-foot Stepladder is our best step ladder whether you want to use it for your office or home or just for about any task where you might need a helpful and reliable step ladder.
Jen Miller is a former electrical engineer and product specialist with more than 20 years of product design and testing experience. She has designed more than 200 products for Fortune 500 companies, in fields ranging from home appliances to sports gear and outdoor equipment. She founded Jen Reviews to share her knowledge and critical eye for what makes consumers tick, and adopts a strict no-BS approach to help the reader filter through the maze of products and marketing hype out there. She writes regularly and has been featured on Forbes, Fast Company, The Muse, The Huffington Post, Tiny Buddha and MindBodyGreen.