The Best Step Stools, Tested for Stability, Portability, and Durability

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Step stools are handy for almost any task that requires extra height, from grabbing items in a top kitchen cabinet to installing a new shelf on a wall. Not only are these everyday tools worthwhile buys from the get-go—most also provide years of safe, dependable use.

To find the best options among the thousands available today, we decided to test several ourselves. Based on stability, portability, build quality, and value, the HBTower 2-Step Folding Steel Ladder earned our top award. But that isn’t the only model worth considering. Keep reading to learn why each of the following best step stools made our list and which features matter most when choosing one.

1. BEST OVERALL:HBTower 2-Step Folding Ladder
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:Rubbermaid 2-Step Steel Step Stool
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3. BEST DESIGN:Lark Manor Ashvir 2-Step Wood Step Stool
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4. BEST THREE-STEP:Little Giant Ladders 3-Step Jumbo Step Stool
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5. BEST HEAVY-DUTY:Cramer Kik-Step Steel Step Stool
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6. BEST PLATFORM:MaxWorks Foldable Aluminum Platform Step Stool
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Step Stools Comparison

Our Top Picks

To make our list of the best step stools, each model had to balance stability with durability and portability. Whether you’re after a step stool for adults to use at a jobsite or a children’s stepping stool for a kid’s bathroom, one of these options should be the perfect fit.

Our Ratings:Stability 5/5;Portability 4/5; Build Quality 4.5/5; Value 4.5/5

The HBTower step stool combines strength, safety, and convenience in a compact design, making it an excellent option for many homes. With an impressively high weight limit of 500 pounds, this sturdy step stool can support most users—plus their tools. Its strength comes from its alloy-steel frame, which is paired with large rubber-padded feet that keep it safely in place.

Weighing just over 9 pounds and measuring 18.7 inches to the top step, the HBTower step stool with two steps was easy to carry and tall enough for most household tasks. The padded top rail provided a soft and comfortable grip, even when we pulled it straight from our bitterly cold garage for testing. Though the step treads are textured for slip resistance, we do wish they were rubber instead of molded plastic for extra traction in wet conditions. When not in use, it folds nearly flat to only 1.6 inches deep, making it simple to store in tight spaces.

What our tester says:“The HBTower is rock solid. It didn’t budge when I leaned to the sides or even when I jumped.”—Glenda Taylor, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the HBTower step stool atAmazon.

Our Ratings:Stability 4.5/5;Portability 4.5/5; Build Quality 4/5; Value 4/5

In our tests, the Rubbermaid 2-Step Stool proved as reliable as it is budget-friendly. Manufactured from sleek tube steel, it’s so smooth to the touch that it’s actually kind of attractive, especially compared to the strictly utilitarian look of most models. At 10.5 pounds, it’s easy to carry, and with safety features like a nonslip top rail and stable rubber feet, it doesn’t shift, even on slick floors. It has a locking mechanism that keeps it secure when open, yet it’s easy to fold via a small latch on the back.

Featuring a metal step stool frame, this model combines sturdiness, ease of use, and portability. The large textured steps provided solid footing, and the oversized top step allowed us to stand comfortably with both feet and turn from side to side without wobbling. While it supports up to 225 pounds, that’s less than several other stools we tested, and it may not be enough for some users. Also, it does tip a bit if you lean too far to the sides, though the solution is simple: Get off, move it over, and then get back on for added safety.

What our tester says:“This model may not be designed for heavy-duty use, but it makes a perfect kitchen step stool for everyday tasks.”—Glenda Taylor, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Rubbermaid two-step step stool atAmazon orWalmart.

Our Ratings:Stability 4/5;Portability 3.5/5; Build Quality 4.5/5; Value 3.5/5

Get a leg up in style with the Lark Manor Ashvir wooden step stool. Unlike traditional step stools that prioritize utility over aesthetics, this two-step model makes an attractive addition to any room. It looks right at home in a bedroom next to a tall bed or in a library with overhead shelves, but it isn’t intended for outdoor use. We tested it in the oak finish, which blended very well with our oak trim, but it also comes in chestnut, cherry, and driftwood.

With a 375-pound weight limit and a 15-inch top step height, this pick is sturdy as well as stylish. Pads on the base reduce sliding and protect floors from scratches, and we found the lower step very stable—though it’s essential to use caution when standing on the top step. There’s no handle or mechanism to keep it from tipping forward, so we felt safest when it was up against a cabinet or wall.

Get the Lark Manor step stool atWayfair.

Our Ratings:Stability 5/5;Portability 3.5/5; Build Quality 5/5; Value 4/5

This three-step Little Giant Ladders step stool is a smart choice for DIYers and pros who need a good amount of height in a compact design. Made from aluminum, it has three wide platform steps that make it feel more like a staircase than a stool, with the top step sitting 26 inches high. Its impressive 375-pound weight limit exceeds Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and American National Standards Institute standards.

During testing, the Little Giant was incredibly easy to climb, even when our hands were full of tools and paint cans. The steps’ nonslip surface and broad leg design created reliable stability and support, and the stool didn’t wobble at all as we climbed, jumped, and leaned to the sides. It comes with an adjustable safety handrail that raises and lowers to suit specific tasks as well as an integrated tray that holds small tools. When your work is complete, it folds flat for storage, though it’s rather bulky and may fit better in a garage, storage shed, or basement than an indoor closet.

Get the Little Giant Ladders step stool atAmazon,Ace Hardware, orWalmart.

Our Ratings:Stability 4.5/5;Portability 3.5/5; Build Quality 4.5/5; Value 4/5

The Cramer Kik-Step heavy-duty step stool is instantly recognizable for its distinctive round shape and rolling design. Instead of carrying it where you need it, you simply nudge it along with your foot and step on when it’s in place. The design is simple but ingenious—spring-mounted castor wheels on the underside of the stool allow it to roll easily until weight—up to 350 pounds—is exerted on the top of the stool. When that happens, the upper part of the stool lowers to the floor, providing a sturdy base on which to stand or sit. Though getting comfortable with this rolling step stool took a bit of practice during testing, we ended up loving this model for tasks needing frequent repositioning.

The Kik-Step is made of solid steel with a scratch-resistant powder coating and comes in a variety of colors. It has wraparound bumpers that protect nearby walls, furniture, and the stool itself. But since it doesn’t have a handrail, you’ll want to be confident in your ability to step up and down without holding on to something for support. It also doesn’t fold, so you’ll need storage space at least as large as its widest point—14.5 inches.

Get the Cramer step stool (various colors) atAmazon,Wayfair,Walmart, orTarget.

Our Ratings:Stability 4/5;Portability 4.5/5; Build Quality 4/5; Value 4/5

The MaxWorks folding step stool proved to be a sturdy and reliable assistant in our tests. Made from extruded aluminum with a durable anodized finish, it’s built to last and can support up to 350 pounds, making it suitable for most users. The platform measures 18 inches long by 12 inches wide, offering plenty of standing room.

With a height of 8 inches, this small step stool was suitable for several just-out-of-reach needs, such as hanging pictures and painting at the top of standard 8-foot walls. Despite its compact size, it didn’t wobble, even when we jumped on it. Its nomarring rubber feet kept it steady on slick floors, and it weighs a mere 3.5 pounds and has folding legs as well as a built-in carry strap that made transport and storage simple. While it lacks a handle, users confident in stepping up will find this step stool ideal for painting, drywall taping, and other home and jobsite tasks.

Get the MaxWorks step stool atAmazon.

Or, DIY Your Own Step Stool

Making your own step stool is a relatively straightforward project for an eager DIYer with some basic tools. Wood is the easiest material to use, whether it’s new from the hardware store or scrap in good condition.

Plenty of free, beginner-friendly DIY step stool plans for one-step and two-step designs are available online. When creating your own wooden step stool, you can stain or paint it to your liking and even add helpful features like rope or metal handles for easy carrying. In addition to those extras, you’ll likely need a miter saw, drill, screws, jigsaw, and Kreg jig, and basic measuring and marking tools.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Step Stools

Step stools are not complicated accessories, but quality and safety can vary from model to model. To choose options for testing, we carefully researched almost three dozen step stools, focusing on high customer satisfaction, ease of use, safety features like locking mechanisms, and quality materials. We also looked for step stools in a variety of categories and price ranges.

After choosing eight step stools for testing, we set each one up and got to work. We began by noting how easy or difficult they were to open and close before climbing on them, carrying them around, sticking them in closets, and even jumping on them to test their sturdiness. If they had extras like normarring feet, project trays, or safety handrails, we evaluated those as well.

Once our work was complete, we awarded points based on a rubric. The better a step stool did on a test, the more points it received. We then averaged the points and noted where each model excelled to help determine its best use. Since our testing was stringent, not every step stool we tried earned a spot in our guide.

What to Consider When Choosing a Step Stool

Step stools are useful for everyday tasks, as well as for decorating, organizing, or renovating. While a step stool is a simple item, a variety of factors go into choosing a suitable option. Potential buyers can narrow down the best step stool for their needs by considering its material construction, height, weight limit, portability, and any additional safety or usability features.

Material and Usage

The most common step stool materials are plastic, wood, and metal. Each has its benefits and drawbacks in terms of design, durability, and usage.

• Plastic: High-quality plastic is a sturdy, lightweight material that’s versatile and durable. Plastic step stools often have a textured nonslip finish and come in a variety of designs. Since they’re also waterproof and won’t rust, they’re a good choice for wet areas. However, low-quality plastic can become brittle and crack, so look for a plastic step stool from a reputable brand.
• Wood: Wood is a strong and classic material for making stylish, sturdy step stools. Available in both decorative and basic designs, wooden step stools tend to be more aesthetic than plastic and metal models, although they’re also often heavier. While wood is durable, it’s not ideal in wet environments because it can mold or rot over time.
• Metal:The most common metals used to make step stools are aluminum and steel, with aluminum being lighter but less durable than steel. Both metal step stool types will typically resist corrosion and rust, although plastic step stools are still generally better in wet areas. To prevent a metal model from slipping and causing injury or floor damage, look for one with nonslip rubberized feet.

Height

Step stools boost users to access hard-to-reach spots, but the amount of extra height they offer varies by model. Standard heights range from around 1 to 4 feet, usually measured to the top step. Step stools are available in one-, two-, and three-step designs.

Consider the intended use of the step stool when choosing a height. A kids’ step stool with a shorter height could be suitable for reaching the bathroom sink, while a taller step stool might be necessary for home improvement tasks. Plenty of in-between sizes are also available, which are ideal for all-purpose tasks, such as reaching the top of a kitchen shelf or changing a light bulb.

Weight Limit

Step stools have a weight limit—the maximum amount of weight they can safely hold—which generally ranges from 250 to 300 pounds. Some step stools for kids have a lower weight limit, while heavy-duty step stools could have a weight limit that exceeds 300 or even 500 pounds.

Ensure the step stool has a high enough weight limit to support anyone who will use it. It’s also important to factor in the weight of tools or other items that users may be holding while on the stool. If a step stool breaks while in use (especially taller two-step or three-step stools), it creates the potential for serious injury.

Portability and Storage

If you’re looking for a portable step stool, consider a foldable design that’s both easy to move and store. Foldable step stools come in several height options, from one-step stools that tuck beside a bathroom counter to three-step stools that hang from a hook in a workroom, and many fold nearly flat—down to about 2 inches thick.

Lightweight step stools are more portable than their heavier counterparts, so consider lighter materials like plastic or aluminum. Integrated carrying handles make it easier to carry a step stool from room to room.

Additional Features

Step stools often include additional safety and convenience features to make them safer and easier to use. The most common safety feature is a textured or rubberized nonslip surface.

Nonslip feet are a must in wet areas—they’ll keep the step stool in place and also prevent damage to the floor. A grippy nonslip step surface is a prudent choice, although it can make the stool less stylish in appearance.

A larger collapsible step stool often includes locking latches to help keep it stable in the unfolded position. Handrails, extra-wide steps, and built-in project trays also improve safety and convenience.

Step stools don’t have to be stored; instead, today’s attractive, modern step stools can do double duty by being displayed or used as a small side table or storage shelving and then cleared when needed for their intended purpose.

FAQs

Step stools are handy to have around the house for everyday tasks. But if you’re a first-time buyer—or just haven’t given them much thought—you may have a few more questions, including whether a step stool is even the right type of ladder for a specific task. Read on for answers to some frequently asked questions about choosing and using a step stool. some frequently asked questions about choosing and using a step stool.

Q. How do I pick a step stool?

Consider the intended use, weight limit, and sturdiness of the step stool to narrow down your options. The right step stool provides a sturdy step, supports your weight, and is tall enough to allow you to reach whatever you need.

Q. What is the maximum height of a step stool?

According to OSHA guidelines, a step stool should not exceed 32 inches in height. For bigger jobs, it’s best to be safe and invest in one of the best full-size ladders.

Q. Can I stand on top of a step stool?

Whether you can stand on top of a step stool depends on its design and height. While short step stools are typically made to support standing on the top step, that’s not always the case for taller models. As with standard and telescoping ladders, the highest safe step will be marked, and you shouldn’t stand higher than that step.

Q. Are step stools considered ladders?

Generally, one-step or two-step step stools are considered step stools. A model with three or more steps may be considered more of a lightweight step ladder, though some blurring exists between the categories. For those looking for a taller option, we also reviewed the best step ladders.

Q. How do you keep a step stool from sliding?

To keep a step stool from sliding, use one with nonslip rubber feet. Be sure to place it on a flat, dry surface, and avoid leaning over.

Q. What are the disadvantages of step stools?

The main disadvantages of step stools are their limited height and lower weight capacity (compared to standard ladders). However, step stools are often easier to move and store than full-size models while still offering extra reach, so those potential disadvantages may not matter for some tasks or users.

Meet the Tester

Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. She and her husband own a general contracting company, and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial building applications. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.

Additional research provided by Jasmine Harding.

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