If you’ve found yourself reaching for a kitchen dining chair or worse, a swivel chair, one too many times trying to reach a particularly high cabinet, or you’re tackling a home improvement project like painting or wallpapering, you’ll definitely want a good step ladder or step stool to make your life a lot easier — and safer.
There’s no shortage of heavy duty step ladders and step stools that will get the job done, but if you’re looking for something more aesthetic, we’ve got those right here. Instead of hiding your gear back in the closet when you’re finished with your task, you can just leave it right out.
Ahead, 10 of our favorite step ladders and step stools guaranteed to give you a lift when you need it most. No matter your budget or your space’s decor style and color palette, these aesthetic essentials put the “fun” back in “functional”.
COSCO Retro Step Stool
COSCO Retro Step Stool
COSCO’s retro step stool is as versatile as it is eye-catching. The stool converts into a counter-height chair for versatility, and the vinyl upholstery make it durable and easy to clean.
$76.61 (was $94.99) at Amazon
Ultralight Slimline 3 Step Stool
Ultralight Slimline 3 Step Stool
This popular step ladder from Frontgate is incredibly sturdy despite its light weight of 10 pounds, and it delivers a reach height of over 8 feet. It’s made from aircraft-grade aluminum and has a deep nonslip platform that adds even more stability. It’s an investment, but one that shoppers say is worth every penny. In fact, the ladder is such a great combo of form and functional that shoppers are buying two at a time to put in different areas of their space.
$169.15 (was $199) at Frontgate
Symple Stuff Steel Folding Step Ladder
Symple Stuff Steel Folding Step Ladder
Perfect for DIY projects like painting or changing light fixtures, this gorgeous green step ladder from Wayfair can support up to 300 pounds. It has safety features like slip-resistant treads and rubber padded feet, and it folds up easily when not in use.
$89.99 (was $92.99) at Wayfair
Teak Step Stool
Teak Step Stool
Designed with kids in mind, Serena & Lily’s teak step stool is also a great choice for adults who need a little boost in the kitchen or closet. It comes comes in three pastel colors and can also double asn an extra shelf or plant stand.
$128 (was $168) at Serena & Lily
Hasegawa Lucano Folding Step Ladder
Hasegawa Lucano Folding Step Ladder
This Hasegawa Lucano folding step ladder is as stylish as it gets. Available in black or white, the step ladder is made from aluminum and steel, and has wide steps and grooved treads for secure footing.
$215 at Crate & Barrel
Kikkerland Step Stool
Kikkerland Step Stool
This tiny but mighty step stool is super sturdy, comfortable to carry, and folds up neatly for easy storage. We’ll admit that it’s not the most aesthic, but the price and size can’t be beat — it can hold up to 300 pounds of weight!
$14.99 at Target
Ascent 3-Step Ladder
Ascent 3-Step Ladder
This beautifullly designed step ladder from The Container Store is super sleek and the metal frame takes up just two inches when it’s folded up. It weights nine pounds but can hold 225 pounds, and comes in three fun colors.
$99.99 at The Container Store
Utility Stool
Utility Stool
This industrial-strength welded stool from Schoolhouse comes in 12 stunning, vibrant colors and be purchased with or without a back. It’s got rubber feet to protect you from sliding and your floors from scratches and dings.
$229 at Schoolhouse
Werner 8-ft. Aluminum Step Ladder
Werner 8-ft. Aluminum Step Ladder
For certain home improvement projects where you need something a little more heavy duty, try this 8-ft Werner aluminum step ladder comes in. With a load capacity of 250 pounds, pinch-proof spreaders, and a spill-proof pail shelf, this step ladder means business.
$119.99 at Home Depot
Lucano 4-Step Ladder
Lucano 4-Step Ladder
This Lucano 4-Step Ladder is a masterclass in blending form and function. Made from sturdy aluminum, it’s both lightweight and portable, and it comes in four colors, including this bright, statement-making orange.
$424 at Williams Sonoma
