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Step stools are handy for almost any task that requires extra height, from grabbing items from the back of a tall 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, we decided to test several ourselves. Based on stability, portability, build quality, and value, the
<ol><li><strong>BEST OVERALL:</strong>
Best Step Stools Compared
Product
Frame Material
Height (Top Step)
Weight Capacity
Our Rating
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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 Hardware, orThe Home Depot(2-pack).
Best Two-Step
Rubbermaid 2-Step Steel Step Stool
Amazon.
Best Three-Step
Little Giant Ladders 3-Step Jumbo Step Stool
Best For DIY
Gorilla Ladders 3-Step Pro-Grade Steel Project Ladder
The Home Depot.
Best With Tray
Rubbermaid 3-Step Aluminum Stool With Project Tray
Amazon.
Best Platform
MaxWorks Foldable Aluminum Platform Step Stool
Amazon.
Best Heavy-Duty
Cramer Kik-Step 2-Step Steel Step Stool
Best Slim Storage
AmeriHome 2-Step Aluminum Ultra Slim Folding Utility Step Stool
Best Wooden
Lark Manor Ashvir 2-Step Wood Step Stool
Wayfair.
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 10 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 nonmarring 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.
Our Testing Scores
Product
Stability
Portability
Durability
Value
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