A ladder is an essential climbing tool for any home. Whether you are a builder or an electrical contractor, need to complete home renovations or general maintenance, prune fruit trees, or change a light bulb, a ladder gives you quick and easy access to hard to reach places.
| Description | Height | Cost | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Rubbermaid RM-2W Folding 2-Stepladder/Stool | 19.1 inches | $ |
|
VonHaus Steel Folding Portable 4-Stepladder | 50.4 inches | $ |
|
Louisville Ladder L-3016-06 300-Pound, 6-foot Fiberglass Stepladder | 6 foot | $$ |
|
Werner 6212 300lbs 12-Foot Type IA Fiberglass Stepladder | 12 foot | $$$$ |
|
Cosco 8-Foot Signature Series Type 1A Stepladder | 8 foot | $$ |
| |
Little Giant 12022 RevolutionXE 22-foot Multi-Use Ladder | 22 foot | $$$$$ |
| |
OLLIEROO TL03124 EN131 13.4-foot Telescopic Extension Ladder | 13.4 foot | $$$ |
Our Top Pick for the Best Ladder
Our top pick for the best ladder is the Little Giant 12022 RevolutionXE 22-foot Multi-Use Ladder. Whether you are a professional contractor or a serious DIY enthusiast, the RevolutionXE is the only ladder you will ever need. Little Giant Ladder Systems have designed a top quality ladder that features a sturdy construction, innovative convertible design, secure locking systems, and Tip & Glide wheels. With all these features packed into one ladder, the RevolutionXE is unmatched in performance and safety.
Take a Step Up with the Right Ladder
Ladders and stepladders, come in all sorts of designs: everyday general use 2, 3 or 4-stepladders, straight ladders, and industrial style multi-use/combination and extension ladders that are used at professional/commercial job sites. To be able to choose the right ladder that is suited for your lifestyle needs and work-related projects, it is a good idea to get familiar with the different types of ladders that are available and what specifications to look for to get the perfect ladder.
Types of Ladders
Low Stepladders/Stools
Low stepladders or stools, like the VonHaus Steel Folding Portable 4-step Ladder or the Rubbermaid 2-step Ladder/Stool, are ideal for quick access to low or medium height cupboards, wardrobes or for trimming low bushes or trees outside. Every home needs to have one of these types of ladders. They have sturdy, wide steps and an easy gripping handle that you can use to carry the stepladder around your home or garden. One of the best things about these small ladders is that they fold down to a compact size so they are a great emergency ladder for camping and to store in your vehicle.
A-frame Ladders
A-frame ladders, like the Louisville Stepladder, the Cosco Signature Series Type Stepladder and the Werner Stepladder have a simple design, two legs that are attached to a spreader that is positioned inside the ladder to increase its stability. These types of ladders are ideal for changing a light bulb, painting a wall, basic renovations, or pruning trees. You may also get extra features like a tool slot or accessory area on the top shelf where you can store your tools or paint tins and depending on the manufacturer, A-frame ladders can take a lot of weight. But as they are more rigid and the spreader is limited to how far it can go, they do not offer you a lot of versatility.
Multi-use Articulated Ladders
A multi-use articulated ladder is one of the most versatile types of ladders due to its convertible design and it is designed with serious DIY'ers and professional contractors in mind. This type of ladder is like having 5 different ladders all in one, like the Little Giant's RevolutionXE ladder. Multi-use ladders have articulated joints or hinges that can be locked into one or more positions, so you can use it as an A-frame ladder, a single ladder, a 90-degree ladder, an extension ladder, a staircase ladder, as well as a trestle-and-plank scaffolding system. The ladder can be used over or around obstacles, and on uneven ground.
These types of ladders may be heavier and bulkier than standard ladders and can be harder and more time-consuming to set up.
Telescopic Extension Ladders
Like the multi-use ladder, a telescopic extension ladder is very versatile and offers you a lot of flexibility for a lot of different tasks, from home/building maintenance, washing windows, and exterior/interior decorating and painting. Telescopic ladders, like the OLLIEROO Telescopic Extension Ladder, gives you an extended reach, so it can be used by home-based DIY enthusiasts and commercial contractors who need to access hard-to-reach areas. Like the multi-use ladder, a telescopic extension ladder can bend a little when it is fully extended.
Construction
Aluminum and fiberglass are the best materials of choice for a ladder and they make a ladder strong and sturdy. Aluminum is rust-resistant and a fiberglass ladder is especially ideal for outdoor use. Although aluminum and fiberglass ladders are more lightweight and easier to move around, they may tend to bend or feel a little wobbly when they are fully extended.
An anodized aluminum alloy is extremely durable but it may feel a little heavy and cumbersome when you need to shift it around your workspace. If you need to work where there are voltage sources or near power lines, fiberglass ladders, like the Werner Stepladder, is non-conductive and is safer to use around electricity. You should never use a metal ladder when working with or around electricity.
Weight Rating
Ladders carry a weight rating that is designed to show you the maximum amount of weight that they can support. The ratings are as follows:
| Type IAA (Extra Heavy Duty) | 375 pounds |
| Type IA (Extra Heavy Duty) | 300 pounds |
| Type I (Heavy Duty) | 250 pounds |
| Type II (Medium Duty) | 225 pounds |
| Type III (Light Duty) | 200 pounds |
Even though a ladder is designed to carry a lot of weight, like the Werner Stepladder or the OLLIEROO Telescopic Extension Ladder, you need to take into account any extra weight that you might be carrying and also the shifting of weight as you climb the ladder. When buying a ladder, especially those that have extra height, check to see that the ladder passes, meets or exceeds safety standards that are set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), CSA, United States Department of Labor (OSHA) or abides by European safety requirements.
Extra Features
Extra features or specifications to consider are:
- Non-slip feet
- Double riveted slip resistant ‘Traction-Tred' steps
- Semi-tubular steel rivets for maximum strength
- Spring-loaded locking mechanism
- Non-slip ribbing
- Heavy-duty steel gusset bracing
- Non-marring feet
- Foldable compact design
- Extra storage or working trays
Safety Tips for Using a Ladder
As falls from portable ladders (step, straight, combination and extension) are one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities and injuries in the workplace and in the home, the United States Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has some safety tips that can help you stay safe while you use your new ladder.
Best Ladder Reviews
1. Rubbermaid RM-2W Folding 2-Stepladder/Stool
A cost-effective stepladder/folding stool that is sturdy, strong and compact, the Rubbermaid RM-2W is an excellent choice for indoor and outdoor tasks and you can even take it away camping.
The Rubbermaid 27.25-inch, 8-foot, 2-step stepladder stool is lightweight at 9.8 pounds, and it has a Type III duty rating that allows it to support up to 200 pounds in weight. Its sturdy steel frame is strong and it has a durable construction with an attractive silver-finished surface that is specially treated to protect it from rust or corrosion, which means can you can use it indoors and outdoors.
You can climb and stand on the steps and feel securely while you reach up to hard to access areas as the 2 steps are large and wide and they are automatically locked into place. There is a convenient soft comfort handgrip to hold onto as you mount and climb the steps.
The step stool also features non-marring feet that protect the surface of the floor so there is no tearing and it will not leave any scuff marks.
One of the most compact stepladders, the Rubbermaid folds down a compact design that folds up to under 3 inches for easy storage so it fits almost anywhere.
All of Rubbermaid products are covered by a 1-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Excellent price
- High-quality
- Portable two-step design
- Non-slip plastic steps
- Supports up to 200 pounds
- Strong and sturdy
- Rustproof aluminum frame
- Limited warranty (one-year)
- Stylish silver finish
- Foldable design
- Compact
- Lightweight
- Soft, comfortable handle
- Non-marring feet
- 1-year limited warranty
Cons
- Cannot support more than 200 lbs
- Heavy to carry
2. VonHaus Steel Folding Portable 4-Stepladder
If you need to do small DIY tasks or reach hard to access places in your garage or around the house, the VonHaus 4-step Folding Stepladder is a great choice ladder for any home or workplace.
The VonHaus ladder is lightweight but very sturdy and its robust steel heavy-duty construction with a powder-coated finish increases its long-term durability and it can withstand a maximum load of 330lb.
VonHaus has designed their ladder with both safety and practicality in mind, and the ladder features 4 (7.9 x 11.9-inch wide steps with gripped treads, and the large non-slip feet offer extra stability and keep the ladder securely on the ground, while also protecting a range of flooring types from being scuffed or damaged.
The ladder's easy-fold action and portable steel frame mean you can fold the step ladder down to a compact size for convenient storage in a cupboard or attic and transport in your vehicle to and from your workplace or campsite.
If you prefer a smaller stepladder, VonHaus also make a 2 and 3-step ladder and you can choose from black or white.
All of the VonHaus products come with a standard 1-year manufacturer’s warranty, but you can register on their website and receive an extended warranty for free.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Very good quality
- Sturdy and strong
- Ideal for home use or the workplace
- Lightweight
- Robust steel construction with a powder coated finish
- Maximum load of 330lbs
- Wide steps with good gripping tread
- Large non-slip feet protect a range of flooring types
- Very stable
- Easy-fold action for convenient storage and transportation
- Folds very flat
- Comes in white or black
Cons
- Unlocking the stairs can be difficult at first
3. Louisville Ladder L-3016-06 300-Pound, 6-foot Fiberglass Stepladder
Louisville is America's largest manufacturer of ladders, so whether you need to do house renovations, clean out the eaves or prune some fruit trees, the Louisville 6-foot durable fiberglass stepladder is an excellent choice for indoor and outdoor use.
The brightly colored red and yellow stepladder is a great alternative to a heavy steel ladder. It is made out of lightweight full-channel, non-conductive red fiberglass that will give you years of durable service and it is strong and sturdy and can support up to 300 lbs.
Although it is lightweight, the Louisville ladder has a lot of stability, with wide insider u-shaped back braces that are vertically mounted and evenly spaced at one-foot intervals to provide maximum stiffness.
You can climb and stand on the steps with confidence as the ladder has strong tubular rivets and the pinch-resistant spreader that is positioned inside the ladder will help give you the stability you need in a stepladder as well as prevent them from getting hooked or damaged during transit. Each slip-resistant, double-rivet step construction step is secured with semi-tubular heavy-duty steel gussets for maximum strength and support.
The ladder will stand securely on any surface as it has slip resistant thick rubber feet to provide a sure footing.
The ideal material for electrical work, full channel fiberglass is non-conductive so you can complete your tasks and stay safe from any electrical shocks or power surges. You can always keep your tools ready for work as the yellow non-conductive structural molded top has handyman tool slots.
You can easily store and transport the ladder as it has a foldable frame design, and for extra peace of mind, the L3016 series has passed ANSI, CSA standards and meets OSHA requirements.
Pros
- Good value for money
- Quality ladder
- Non-conductive full channel fiberglass frame
- Ideal for electrical work
- Durable
- Strong tubular rivets
- Pinch-resistant spreader
- Yellow non-conductive structural molded top
- Non-slip rubberized feet
- Heavy duty gusset bracing on each step
- Comfortable step spacing
- High weight limit (300 pounds)
- Sturdy frame
- Handyman tool slots
- Foldable frame design
- Passes ANSI, CSA standards and meets OSHA requirements
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Does not have a good height
4. Werner 6212 300lbs 12-Foot Type IA Fiberglass Stepladder
For over 60 years, Werner has been the most trusted name in ladders, and they are the Number One choice for professionals more than any other brand as their quality ladders are built to withstand even the most challenging tasks.
The bright red and yellow 12-foot stepladder from Werner is specially designed for heavy-duty industrial use, which makes it the perfect ladder for most indoor and outdoor household projects, especially if you need to do some electrical work and need access to high ceilings.
Whether you work on a commercial job site or are a serious DIY-er, the Werner stepladder has been designed with a high level of functionality and will help you increase your productivity for any type of job, indoors or outdoors.
The ladder is constructed from lightweight fiberglass rails, which are electrically non-conductive, which makes the ladder safe for use around electricity and its safety rating of 1A means it has a weight capacity of 300 pounds (combined weight of user and materials).
You will stay safe and secure as the slip-resistant Traction-Tred aluminum steps are double riveted and braced for a safer climb and descent and the foot pads are securely riveted to the EDGE structure for extra strength and support. The ladder's slip-resistant, non-marring feet are ideal for most surfaces and a full set of rear horizontals (including two that are knee braced) are evenly spaced per step.
To further enhance the ladder's overall safety, Werner has added unique EDGE (Energy Diffusing Geometry) molded braces that provide enhanced strength and increased protection against rail damage during use and transport.
The backup plates and heavy-duty rivets add extra durability and shoulder bolts and nuts and washers connect each ladder top to the rear rail, and all the hardware is reinforced with metal backup plates.
Werner had included some extras to help your work productivity, like the plastic HolsterTop that will safely hold a gallon or quart of paint, a cordless drill, fasteners, or other hand tools. The HolsterTop is designed for Lock-In accessories like the ToolLasso and JobBucket.
For quick storage, the heavy-duty spreaders make it easy to open and close the ladder.
All of Werner Co. products are built to meet or exceed all applicable American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) code requirements.
Werner Co. offers a limited amount of replacement parts for a period of 15 years from the date of manufacture of your product. All other available component replacement parts are offered for sale for a period of 5 years from the date of manufacture. Check their website to see more information.
Pros
- Excellent quality
- Bright red and yellow color
- Sturdy fiberglass frame
- Can be used around electricity
- Solid construction
- Provide 12 ft. for high ceilings
- 300 lb. load capacity ideal for most household projects
- Double riveted Non-slip Traction-Tred aluminum steps
- Molded brace and foot pad combination provides enhanced strength
- Foot pads riveted to the EDGE structure
- EDGE (Energy Diffusing Geometry) braces
- Heavy-duty internal spreaders for easy opening and closing
- HolsterTop with tool lasso sockets holds drills and other tools while working
- Weather resistant for outdoor use
- Meets or exceeds ANSI rating and OSHA compliant for safety
- 15-year Limited replacement warranty
- General 5-year replacement part warranty
Cons
- Bulky
- Hard to store
- Aluminum metal stairs make it a little heavy
5. Cosco 8-Foot Signature Series Type 1A Stepladder
At an extremely affordable price, the Cosco Signature Series 8 ft. Premium Aluminum Step Ladder is the perfect choice for most indoor household tasks. The stepladder features a patented strong and durable aluminum boxed frame which is very lightweight so it is very easy to move around your workspace, but it is a pretty tough ladder and can support up to 300 lbs.
The large platform top step and comfortable hand grips create the ideal, secure working space, while the non-marring, skid-resistant, stabilizing feet help to protect flooring surfaces and keep the ladder steady on the ground.
One of the most portable ladders, the Cosco stepladder has a one-hand lock/release latch that allows you to fold down the ladder to just 5-½ inches, and the all-in-one leg lock and carry handle with security lock make it easy to transport around the house or job site.
For your working convenience, all of your tools can be kept in one place for quick access as the large working tray has deep, recessed areas for tools and paint cans and a locking drawer for smart parts and a paper towel holder.
Cosco offers a 10-year limited warranty on their signature series stepladder and it meets ANSI type IA standards for safe use.
Pros
- Good quality
- Good value for money
- Very affordable price
- Ideal for general household use
- Aluminum construction offers lightweight durability
- Sturdy ladder
- Supports up to 300 lbs
- Ideal for industrial, construction, and most household tasks
- Large platform top step
- Comfortable hand grips
- Non-marring, skid-resistant, stabilizing feet
- High level of portability
- Wide steps
- Large working tray
- One-hand lock/release latch
- Easy folding design for compact storage and transport
- Easy to carry
- Meets ANSI type IA standards for safe use
- 10-year limited warranty
Cons
- Not ideal for uneven surfaces
- Not high enough for high ceilings
6. Little Giant 12022 RevolutionXE 22-foot Multi-Use Ladder
The Little Giant Ladder System's 22-Foot RevolutionXE Multi-Use Ladder is the perfect ladder for building contractors, or painting high ceilings or cleaning tall windows. It is safe, reliable, easy to set it up and pack away, and as an extra bonus, the ladder has Tip & Glide caster/ wheels for even greater portability, which makes this Multiuse ladder the right ladder for any job.
Little Giant Ladder Systems have constructed their ladder from a special rust-resistant aircraft-grade aluminum alloy that makes the ladder 20% lighter than any comparable industrial-rated ladder so you can easily shift it around or lift it out of your vehicle.
Optimal safety and increased stability are paramount with the RevolutionXE as it has wide-flared legs and the Quad-Lock hinge locks securely while the ladder's expert design means that it exceeds OSHA, ANSI, and CSA standards and is rated to hold 300 lbs.
The wider rungs reduce fatigue and foot pain and increase your stability and balance while working on the ladder. The deep treads increase traction while climbing and the ladder's feet are slip-resistant.
You can use the ladder 5 different ways due to its patented, convertible design. It can be used as an A-frame ladder, an extension ladder, and a staircase ladder, a 90-degree ladder, as well as a trestle-and-plank scaffolding system with RevolutionXE Trestle Brackets (sold separately). So instead of having to spend your hard earned cash on buying separate ladders for individual uses, the Little Giant ladder is the only ladder you need.
The RevolutionXE ladder can be used in places that other ladders fear to tread: you can position the legs on the stairs, over obstacles, and even on uneven ground. If you need to lean on a wall while you are painting, the ladder can be configured into a 90-degree position. As it extends to a full 22 feet, you will have access to extra high vaulted ceilings, second story roof lines, gutters, and other hard-to-reach areas.
Some multi-use ladders can be time-consuming to set-up and take down but not with RevolutionXE. It has a super-fast set-up, adjustment and take-down system which is also due to the innovative patented Rock Lock™ system. Simply push the lock to release and adjust the ladder, then tap to lock. It's simple, fast and safe, which means you can spend more time on what is important getting your building, maintenance or renovations done fast.
Storing the ladder is very easy as well as it has folds down to a slim 9-inch profile, so you can conveniently store it out of the way when it is not in use.
The RevolutionXE is also available in three different models that offer 24, 33, and 43 unique configurations.
Little Giant Ladders Systems also offers an extremely generous lifetime warranty on their superb RevolutionXE ladder.
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Great quality
- Patented, convertible design
- Constructed from a special rust-resistant aircraft-grade alloy
- Ideal for industrial use
- High level of versatility
- Converts to a 22-foot extension ladder
- Wide-flared legs
- Wider rungs and slip-resistant steps
- Slip-resistant feet
- Converts to 5 different ladders
- Patented Rock Lock™ system
- Securely locking Quad-Lock hinge
- Super-fast set-up and take down
- Tip & Glide™ Locking Casters/Wheels
- Can be placed on the stairs, over obstacles, and on uneven ground
- Easy to store
- Exceeds all OSHA and ANSI standards
- Rated up to 300 lbs
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Can wobble when fully extended
- Still a bit heavy
7. OLLIEROO TL03124 EN131 13.4-foot Telescopic Extension Ladder
Whether you are a professional contractor or a DIY home enthusiast, the OLLIROO telescopic extension ladder is a very good choice. This pretty yellow and blue ladder is not just attractive looking on the outside, but it features a unique design and as it is constructed from anodized aluminum alloy that has anti-corrosive protection, it is the ideal ladder for indoor and outdoor home/building outdoor maintenance, washing windows, exterior/interior decorating, painting and so much more.
The extendable telescoping design gives you that flexibility for reaching up to paint high ceilings and to fix roofs and you can adjust the height easily in one-foot increments up to 13.5-feet. The ladder can be safely secured due to the spring loaded locking mechanism and the non-slip ribbing blue safety locks. The blue anti-slip rubber sleeve on the bottom of each step means you can climb the wide steps with confidence and the stable locking key between two neighboring steps to avoid bumping and friction and as it is certified up to 330lbs, it can take a lot of weight.
The OLLIEROO ladder is 100% quality assured and is certificated to European en131 safety standards and its non-slip feet means it will stand securely on most surfaces.
Once you have finished work for the day, the OLLIEROO features a foldable lightweight design so it can be quickly packed down for easy storage and transport, which also makes it a great choice for camping.
Pros
- Very good quality telescopic ladder
- Affordable price
- Anodized aluminum alloy with anti-corrosive protection
- Ideal for indoors and outdoors
- High load limit (330 lbs)
- Ideal for high ceilings and roofs
- Spring-loaded locking mechanism
- Blue safety locks
- Blue anti-slip rubber sleeve on each step
- Adjustable steps
- Lightweight design
- Foldable/adjustable frame
- Easy to adjust
- Certificated to European en131 safety standards
- 100% quality assurance
Cons
- Does not feel very stable when fully extended
- Heavy
Our Top Pick for the Best Ladder
Our top pick for the best ladder is the Little Giant 12022 RevolutionXE 22-foot Multi-Use Ladder. Whether you are a professional contractor or a serious DIY enthusiast, the RevolutionXE is the only ladder you will ever need. Little Giant Ladder Systems have designed a top quality ladder that features a sturdy construction, innovative convertible design, secure locking systems, and Tip & Glide wheels. With all these features packed into one ladder, the RevolutionXE is unmatched in performance and safety.