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Every home needs a step stool. Why? Because eventually you will find yourself unable to reach something that you need to get or fix. The problem is, not every step stool is equal. While homeowners may think that grabbing the first one they see on sale will get the job done, they soon find themselves mistaken. So, what should you be looking for when step stool shopping? Here are the five main things to consider when purchasing that all important step stool:
1. Where will the step stool be used: In the kitchen? Garage? Around the house? Maybe just the bathroom? The way you plan to use your new step stool will have a big impact on the type you ultimately choose to buy. For instance, you wouldn't buy a three-step steel step stool for a toddler who needs to reach the bathroom sink to brush their teeth. They would only need a small wooden or plastic single step stool. However, if you need a stool for an aging parent to use to get in and out of the bathtub, you would need a tougher variety that features a hand rail and anti-skid pads on the bottom. 2. Where are you going to store your new step stool? Think about where you will ultimately keep your stool for easy access. Again, a smaller stool may be shoved under the sink or vanity, but a larger stool may need to be hung in the closet or on the back of door for quick access. In this case you would want to purchase a step stool that folds. One that will be kept out all of the time would not have to fold and might simply be a stand alone variety. 3. Can it be used for multiple functions around the house? Some stools are meant for a single purpose like reaching the sink or top closet shelves; while other stools need to be able to be moved from room to room and work for a variety of tasks. In this case, you may want to consider a more heavy duty stool that offers an adjustable height to help you reach more storage spaces throughout your home. For some people this means buying several stools: one for basic use and one for chores. 4. How tall of a step do you need? There are several things to consider here: how many steps your stool should feature and how far apart those steps should be. What you ultimately choose will depend on several factors including: - Your own physical abilities and restrictions. If you have a hard time climbing stairs you may want to look for a stool with fewer steps that are closer together for easier climbing
- The types of jobs you will be using the stool for. Again, consider what you need your stool for to better determine the size and durability you will need.
- Who else will be using the stool and for what purposes? If children will be using the stool, be sure that you get one that can handle their shorter stance. The same is true for elderly users. A stool with narrow steps may not be good for those with balance problems.
- How much storage room you have for your stool? While you may think it better to buy a larger step stool or even step ladder, consider where you will be storing it and how easy (or hard) it will be to get it out and set it up for simple jobs. Don't make it so hard to sue that you never take it out of the closet.
5. Will it be used for normal home use or for medical purposes? Some people try to use their regular home step stool for medicinal purposes after surgery or an injury only to discover that it doesn't work. Why? Because regular step stools are not designed to handle the weight, flexibility issues or balance problems that can be encountered in physical therapy issues. If you need a step stool during your recovery, be sure to ask your doctor or therapist what you need (a handrail; metal construction; non-skid pads, etc). Otherwise you could injure yourself even more.
Who knew there was so much to think about when purchasing a step stool? Now that you know what to look for, you won't waste any time and money on the wrong stool.
If you are looking for a reliable step stool, Ed Jenkins recommends his Step Stool Supply for a wide variety of step stools and step ladders.
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