What Is the Best Step Ladder to Buy In 2024?

August 6, 2024 | Nate Cord

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Choosing the right step ladder can make all the difference when tackling household projects, DIY repairs, or professional tasks.

But with so many options available on the market, finding the best step ladder for your needs can be overwhelming. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the top choices for 2024, helping you make an informed decision that ensures safety, efficiency, and value for your investment.

But before we get into it, it’s important to understand what a step ladder is, the various types available and how they differ from a traditional extension ladder (as they’re often confused!).

What Is a Step Ladder?

To put it simply, a step ladder is a self-supporting, portable ladder that consists of flat steps and a hinged frame. It is designed to be used by placing it in an “A” shape, allowing the user to climb up and down the steps safely. They also often have a platform at the top for holding tools or materials.
The Different Types of Step Ladders

There are a few main types of stepladders, including: swingback step ladders, platform step ladders, fibreglass step ladders and small step stools.

Swingback step ladders – These are made without a platform at the top of the ladder, and can be moved quickly from one place to another for small jobs requiring little tools. Regularly used for trade and household work.
Platform step ladders – These are similar to swingback step ladders in that they’re ideal for projects that require little equipment and are easy to transport. Platform stepladders however come with extra space for users to lay down tools and materials when working.
Fibreglass step ladders – Fibreglass step ladders are ideal for anyone working in the electrical sector, as they are non-flammable and non-conductive.
Step stools – Small step stools are ideal for reaching household items that are out of reach, such as light fittings or reaching the back of a shelf.

If you’re still not sure on which step ladder to choose for your needs, we can help! Contact our ladder experts today on 01639849847 for a friendly chat!

A step ladder is used for a variety of tasks that require reaching higher places safely and conveniently.

What Is the Difference Between a Ladder and Step Ladder?

Ladders and stepladders are sometimes confused.

The main difference between a ladder (also known as an extension ladder) and a step ladder is that a step ladder can stand up on its own (due to the ‘A’ structure), whereas a straight ladder must be leant up against a wall (or any other vertical structure that’s strong enough to support it).

When it comes to tasks, step ladders typically work best for small to medium tasks, particularly around the house, although they can also be used for industrial purposes.

Ladders are more suitable for heights above this, and most extension ladders can reach up to at least 10m. That said, if you’re going to be working at height for a long time, it’s worth considering using a scaffold tower instead. Learn more about ladders vs scaffold towers here.

What Is a Step Ladder Used For?

A step ladder can be used for a variety of tasks that require reaching higher places, and are particularly useful for indoor tasks where stability and portability are essential. As mentioned above, unlike traditional ladders, step ladders are self-supporting and can therefore be used in the middle of a room or space without needing additional support.

Some common examples of step ladder uses include:

Home maintenance tasks such as changing light bulbs or putting up shelves.
Dusting high surfaces, cleaning windows, and reaching into high cabinets.
Providing a stable platform for workers to reach elevated areas.
Stocking shelves, retrieving inventory, and organising storage areas in retail environments.

For tasks that require significant height, such as cleaning gutters, painting the exterior of buildings, and roof work, extension ladders are the best bet, providing the necessary reach to safely complete these jobs.

Check out our ladder buying guide for a comprehensive round up of the different types of ladders available, and their ideal uses.

What is The Best Step Ladder to Buy in 2024?

Choosing the best step ladder to buy depends on your specific needs and the types of tasks you’ll be performing. Here are some top recommendations across different categories, each offering unique features and benefits.

5 of the best step ladders to buy in 2024 include:

1. Youngman 5 Tread Builders Swingback Step Ladder

Made from high-quality durable aluminium, the Youngman 30599618 5 Tread Swingback Step Ladder is a super reliable choice for those needing a ladder for frequent, heavy duty work. It is approved to the latest EN131 standard, ideal for professional and non-professional use.

Some of its main key features include:

Top edge caps for a smoother profile
Heavy duty internal spreaders and large slip resistant feet
Slip-resistant treads for comfort and security
Slip-resistant feet for maximum stability
Cross tube on rear frames to increase rigidity
150kg load capacity

2. Hailo L100 TopLine Aluminium Safety Stepladder

The Hailo L100 TopLine Aluminium Safety Step Ladder is a great choice if looking for a platform step ladder, particularly due to its combination of safety, durability, and user-friendly features.

Other key features include:

Safe, high-tech riveted rail-step joints
Maximum load capacity 150 kg
Black XXL aluminium steps with non-slip ribbing and an extra deep tread
Slip-resistant feet
Extendable safety rail provides a firm grip when working on the platform
Platform locking mechanism ensures platform can be safely locked and released

Conveniently, the Hailo L100 TopLine Aluminium Safety Step Ladder comes with a multipurpose tray for holding tools, cans of paint or small parts, ideal for professional or home use.

3. Lyte Trade Fibreglass Platform Step Ladder

Certified to BS EN131, this Lyte Trade Fibreglass Step Ladder is an ideal choice for the tradesman or anybody undertaking electrical work for that matter. This is because it’s made from non-conductive fibreglass, making it safe to use around electrical installations and in environments where electrical hazards are a concern.

Other benefits include:

Maximum capacity load of 150kg
Non conductive to 30,000 volts
Lower bottom tread to avoid bending of front feet
Plastic tool tray to hold tools and equipment while working
Rigid box section back legs with additional cross braces and ‘k’ straps for increased strength and stability

4. Hailo MK60 Standard line Step Stool

One of the best step stool ladders on the market is the Hailo MK60 Standard line Step Stool. With its sturdy construction, large steps and small design, it is the ideal solution for kitchen and office environments.

More key features include:

Folds down to just 4 cm in width, making it super easy to store.
Hinged lock with release button
Practical carry handle
2 large steps with non-slip mats
Non-slip plastic feet
Plastic parts: anthracite
Maximum load capacity 150 kg

5. Chase Double Sided Stock Picking Step Ladder

The Chase Double Sided Stock Picking Step Ladder is considered one of the best choices for specific tasks, especially in environments such as warehouses, retail stores, and industrial settings.

This ladder features a 175 kg maximum permissible vertical static load and a 130 kg Duty rating. It also boasts a factory fitted top loop handrail that provides a handhold at waist height unlike most conventional alternatives for added safety.

It also comes with handrails and rear mounted “tilt & roll” wheels, making this an agile yet sturdy step.

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We hope this article has provided you with valuable insights and guidance to help you buy the best step ladder for your needs in 2024.

Looking for a reliable step ladder or other premium access equipment? At Ladders4Sale, we offer a range of ladders, platforms, steps, towers and accessories for all trade and do-it-yourself jobs at unbeatable low prices.

What’s more, all of our products come with lifetime support – after your initial purchase, we continue to provide ongoing support and assistance for free. In addition to this, all orders come with free shipping to mainland UK.