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10 Best Ladders in 2022

Reach Any Height with our List of the Best Extension Ladders Around

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    Anna Ryan

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  • Updated: May 4, 2022

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Ladders

Ladders are an essential tool for the home or workplace, although they are often overlooked. If you have any kind of construction, decorating, or cleaning project that needs to be done, then purchasing a good quality ladder is a must. You want something sturdy that will keep you upright and safe, no matter the job.

Most homes will have their own set of ladders already, but chances are, these are old and rusting. You could be putting yourself, your family, or your colleagues at risk every time you use your old ladder. Now seems like a good time to invest in something safe, better equipped, and secure.

We have researched the best brands for the home or workplace to find the ten safest ladders to suit any project. Check out the best ladders of 2022 below.

Expert Tip

Even Legs

Briana Yablonski

No matter what type of ladder you buy, you want the legs to be on even ground! If you are putting a ladder on uneven ground, you can insert a block of wood, some gravel, or another object under one leg to level it out. And have someone hold the ladder!

View the Best ladder, Below.

  • Flip-N-Lite 300-Pound Duty Rating Stepladder
  • Little Giant 22-Foot Velocity Multi-Use Ladder
  • Rubbermaid 3 Step Ladder
  • First Alert EL52-2 Two-Story Fire Escape Ladder
  • Xtend & Climb 770P Telescoping Ladders
  • HBTower Folding 4 Step Ladder
  • Ohuhu Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder
  • HBTower 3 Step Ladder Folding Stepladders
  • Bowoshen Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder
  • Louisville Ladder FS4006

1. Flip-N-Lite 300-Pound Duty Rating Stepladder

A Great Ladder for the Home and Onsite

Flip-N-Lite 300-Pound Duty Rating StepladderRead Customer Reviews →

This Little Giant ladder is an industrial-rated construction tool made for comfort and ease. Industrial-rated means you can use it on construction sites and heavy projects. But despite that, this ladder is incredibly lightweight and easy to transport around the room or onsite. This is a great ladder for the home because of how easy it is to store. The slim profile means it can fit into any storage cupboard, garage, or site space.

This ladder is designed to be comfortable for users. It also doubles as a platform ladder; it features a huge standing platform; you have a lot of room to be secure and safe, even when at the highest point of this 6-foot ladder. This extra heavy-duty ladder is an amazing combination of strength and lightweight ability. It will keep you upright and secure, no matter the job you need to do.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
Pros
  • Industrial-rated ladder - suitable for all jobs
  • Lightweight and easy to transport from site or room
  • Slim profile for easy storage
  • Huge standing platform is comfortable to use
  • Amazing combination of lightweight and strength
  • Trusted Brand - a Little Giant Ladder
  • Good ladder height
Cons
  • Step ladders aren't as tall as other ladders - better for lower jobs
Key Specs
MaterialAluminum
TypeStepladder
Size6 Foot

2. Little Giant 22-Foot Velocity Multi-Use Ladder

Best Multi Position Ladder and A Frame Ladder Combination to Tackle Any Job

Little Giant 22-Foot Velocity Multi-Use LadderRead Customer Reviews →

Multi-position ladders are known for their versatility and this model is no different. This extension ladder is a great tool to have around the home. It can deliver an unmatched level of stability and contains features specially made to maintain the ladder's strength. Got two people? You don't need two ladders. This two-person, A-frame ladder features multiple sizes of A-frame and an extension that you can use as a 90-degree ladder or a scaffold system.

Adjust and mold the ladder to suit any job you have around the home. It'll help you reach some of the most difficult areas in your house, like above the staircase or vaulted ceilings. It also has the ability to be used over and around obstacles. It's a very stable ladder you can adjust with the dual-pin hinge, wide-flared legs, and is made to the highest quality construction. As it is adjustable, you'll always have the right ladder on hand, no matter the job. Using the right ladder around the home will prevent any issues or accidents.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
Pros
  • Great ladder for all chores around the home
  • Adjustable - multi position ladder
  • Two-person ladder
  • Highest quality construction for the safest ladder
  • It helps you reach all the difficult areas within your home
  • A-frame ladder for two people
  • One of the best aluminum ladders
Cons
  • Users have reported that service is better with other brands
Key Specs
MaterialAluminum
TypeMulti-use
Size22 Foot

3. Rubbermaid 3 Step Ladder

A Ladder Best for the Home

Rubbermaid 3 Step LadderRead Customer Reviews →

This lightweight 3-step ladder is easy to store. You can keep it on hand for any job in the house. Whether you're working on a DIY project, a minor paint job, or even having trouble reaching certain things around the home, this portable ladder will make all the difference. Rubbermaid has constructed this ladder from high-quality, durable steel to withstand any chore. It also features a layer of weather-resistant white powder coating, making it suitable to use in all weathers.

This step stool has four legs, all of which are covered with non-slip rubber caps. These rubber caps not only protect your floor from being scratched or ruined but also keep the ladder sturdy and secure on any surface. It features a tool tray, keeping all your tools in one place.

Ladder safety is essential, and this ladder will keep you as safe as possible when cleaning, painting, and more. The easy folding capability allows for effortless storage, and the locking system keeps it secure. This sturdy three-step ladder is the ideal tool for the home.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
Pros
  • Ideal ladder for use around the home
  • Small and secure storage, with easy folding capability
  • Secured with non-slip rubber feet to keep upright on all floors
  • Coated with weather-resistant paint
  • Durable steel that can withstand repeated use
  • Features a tool tray
  • Less than 300 pounds, but sturdy
Cons
  • Heavy to carry
Key Specs
Material3-Step
TypeSteel
Size52.2 Foot
Expert Tip

Weight

Briana Yablonski

Just because a ladder is heavier, it doesn’t necessarily mean it is stronger nor sturdier. However, it will be more difficult to carry and set up. To determine how much weight a ladder can handle, look at the maximum weight limit rather than the weight of the ladder itself.

4. First Alert EL52-2 Two-Story Fire Escape Ladder

Best Fire Escape Ladder

First Alert EL52-2 Two-Story Fire Escape LadderRead Customer Reviews →

Fire Alert has specially designed this portable folding ladder to hang from residential windows in emergencies. This fire escape ladder arrives fully assembled but folded for easy storage. It secures onto residential windows; use it during home fires and other emergencies. Fire Alert has thoroughly tested the steel construction, ensuring it can handle a great weight. This means it will help your whole family when needed. Additionally, it has been tested to ASTM standards to ensure the safest and highest quality possible.

All homes need at least two escape routes for emergencies, and this First Alert Fire Escape Ladder can deliver essential safety to your family with ease. It measures at 14-foot, which is more than enough room for two stories. In addition, it features DuPont Cordura nylon strapping for additional security, maximum durability, and extra strength. This folding safety ladder is essential for all homes.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
Pros
  • Portable, folding ladder that can be secured onto any home
  • Essential safety for your family
  • Easy to store and easy to use when necessary
  • Strong steel construction
  • Features nylon strapping for additional security
Cons
  • Manufacturers suggest not using the ladder on a window that's above another window - can cause damage
Key Specs
MaterialFire Escape
TypeSteel
Size14 Foot

5. Xtend & Climb 770P Telescoping Ladders

Best Telescoping Ladder for Commericial Contractors and at Home Use

Xtend & Climb 770P Telescoping LaddersRead Customer Reviews →

The manufacturers have designed this telescoping ladder to retract compactly, making it easy to store and maintain around the home. The extension is easy to use, and you can retract the ladder with a lock at the foot, which closes the ladder with a no-pinch system. It has been manufactured to an industry-standard and can be used by both commercial contractors and for at-home projects.

The Xtend & Climb ladder is a sensible and easier-to-use solution to chunky ladders. This ladder is lightweight and durable, designed especially for easy transportation. This aluminum ladder features an integrated carrying handle that makes transport and storage even easier. The telescoping ladder is time-saving and easy to use.

It features ergonomic designs and locking tabs for safe and secure use. This is why it's great for both the home and business. The airplane-grade aluminum alloy construction ensures strength and durability. This ladder is certain to see you through every chore or task at home or work.

This ladder has been designed for ease and confidence, which makes it a brilliant transportable tool for work or home jobs.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
Pros
  • Designed for convenience and security
  • The telescoping feature is easy to use and safe
  • Carry handle makes transport even easier
  • The extension is quick and easy
  • One of the best aluminum ladders - lightweight and durable
  • Good ladder height
Cons
  • Might need two people to unlock the telescoping system
Key Specs
MaterialAluminum Alloy
TypeTelescoping
Size15.5 Foot

6. HBTower Folding 4 Step Ladder

One of the Best Step Ladders for Safety and Steadiness

HBTower Folding 4 Step LadderRead Customer Reviews →

This portable stepladder is an incredibly handy tool to keep within the home or on hand in the office or workplace. The durable steel construction and frame distribute weight evenly. This keeps the ladder steady and secure, even when in use. You will feel safe, even on the top rail - the manufacturers have designed this ladder to maintain balance.

The feet of the ladder have been coated in non-slip rubber. This ensures that you can use the ladder on all surfaces around the house without marking the floor or causing you to feel unsteady.

The ladder is compact, and you can fold it to be only 1.6-inches wide. This makes it great for storage. You can keep it on hand in the home to help out with any chore, DIY job, or hard-to-reach areas. In addition, it features a safety hatch. This ensures that once the ladder is closed, it stays closed so you can compactedly store it in any space.

This compact step-ladder is a super handy tool to keep on hand around the home for those hard-to-reach areas.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
Pros
  • An incredibly handy household tool
  • Built from durable and hard-wearing steel
  • Frame distributes weight evenly so it is super safe to use
  • Compact storage to fit in any home
  • Non-slip rubber feet so it will not mark floors or move on surfaces
  • Perfect choice to use around the house
Cons
  • You have to put this ladder together on arrival
Key Specs
MaterialSteel
TypeStep Ladder
Size4.2 Foot

7. Ohuhu Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder

Best Telescoping Ladder for Convenience

Ohuhu Aluminum Telescopic Extension LadderRead Customer Reviews →

This foldable telescopic ladder extends and stores easily, making it a truly versatile ladder for the home or workplace. It's made from premium aluminum alloy, which is incredibly secure and durable. This means the ladder is long-lasting and of great value. It will see you through any chore, task, or job you have in the home, garden, or at your workplace.

In addition, this aluminum ladder is super easy to use with intelligent extend and lock mechanisms. You can put these into place with easily accessible thumb buttons, making this ladder suitable for so many people. It features anti-pinch technology to ensure that it's super safe to use. You can store it away easily. There are plastic pillars between the steps that protect fingers from injury when folding away the ladder.

As this is a telescopic ladder, it is incredibly easy to store and keep on hand for necessary jobs. Tackle blown light bulbs, painting jobs, and more. This telescopic ladder is super convenient and easy to use, no matter what chore or task you have.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
Pros
  • Easily expands to be used quickly
  • Super safe to use with anti-pinch features
  • Intelligent extend and lock mechanisms makes this ladder great for everyone
  • Can be used at home or at work
  • Easy to store and transport
  • Amazing ladder height
Cons
  • Users have reported it's a little wobbly
Key Specs
MaterialAluminum
TypeTelescoping
Size12.5 Foot

8. HBTower 3 Step Ladder Folding Stepladders

A Great Lightweight Ladder from a Great Ladder Brand

HBTower 3 Step Ladder Folding StepladdersRead Customer Reviews →

This compact 3-step ladder has been GS Certified to ensure it's the highest quality and safest household tool. You can easily store this foldable ladder around the home or office. Keep it on hand for any chores that require some additional steps. This ladder comes fully assembled, so you can get to work as soon as it arrives! It's a space-saving design that features a metal lock clip, helping it keep its shape. In addition, it can be easily folded and transported around the home due to how lightweight it is.

The feet of this ladder feature non-marring bases. This means they won't scratch the floors of your home. They also contribute to the safety of the stepladder. Each of the three steps has a non-slip rubber pattern that keeps your feet steady and secure – even when you're reaching the top. It is super safe to use and incredibly versatile.

You can use it around the home for DIY projects, paint jobs, or even reach those difficult areas. This compact step-ladder is super convenient, safe, and handy to keep around the home for various chores.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
Pros
  • Super convenient household tool
  • GS Certified ladder that is incredibly high quality
  • The foldable ladder can be easily stored
  • Space-saving design that is suitable for all homes
  • Non-slip rubber feet and step pattern
Cons
  • Only best for minor work, like changing light bulbs
Key Specs
MaterialSteel
TypeStep Ladder
Size3 Foot

9. Bowoshen Aluminum Telescopic Extension Ladder

Best Extension Ladder for Both Indoor and Outdoor Use

Bowoshen Aluminum Telescopic Extension LadderRead Customer Reviews →

The Bowoshen Extension Ladder is a telescoping tool that can extend to 16.5 ft with ease. It's equipped with a locking feature; you can lock it using two steel pins at every step. These pins automatically spring into place when you open the ladder, allowing you to use it quickly, with ease. The ladder is lightweight but sturdy, making it suitable for so many different tasks, either professionally or at home. It has been designed to be easily transported from various sites or around the home.

Due to how sturdy it is, this extension ladder is multi-purpose. It's suitable for indoor and outdoor use. You can use it within the home for DIY projects, in the garden, in the office, or on construction sites. This extension ladder is exceptionally safe to use and has been certified to multiple European Safety Standards. There are slip resistant foot grips to ensure that this ladder can be used on any surface safely.

This ladder is incredibly safe to use and durable, which makes it great value for home or professional projects. Not only is it the best extension ladder on our list; it's also one of the best multi-position options too.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
Pros
  • The telescoping ladder can be extended with ease
  • Locking feature that works at every step
  • Lightweight for easy transportation
  • Multipurpose, sturdy ladder for use at home or work
  • Certified and incredibly safe to use
  • Features anti skid rubber feet
Cons
  • Poor quality instructions
Key Specs
MaterialAluminum
TypeTelescoping
Size16.5 Foot

10. Louisville Ladder FS4006

Best Fiberglass Ladder

Louisville Ladder FS4006Read Customer Reviews →

This Lousiville Ladder is elegant and smooth to improve your performance in a multitude of tasks. Whether you're working on an electrical, construction, or residential job, this ladder can deliver the support you need. It features a thick rubber tread on all four aluminum-angled feet to protect your surfaces, as well as maintaining balance and security. It is a Pro-Top design that is suited to professional work.

This ladder includes various additional tools to help you out with your work. These include a hardware tray, magnet tray, drill and tool slots, paint bucket holder, a curved front, and a pipe. This ladder is perfect for commercial use and will make each job go smoothly.

Fiberglass ladders are known for their durability, and this one is no exception. This 6-foot ladder is made from high-quality fiberglass to withstand heavy weights and repeated use. It is a greatly versatile and specialized ladder that can significantly impact your professional and commercial projects.

This fiberglass ladder is a specialized tool that has been designed for commercial work. It includes additional storage and a toolkit for all your needs.

Check Price on Amazon ➞
Pros
  • A high-quality professional ladder
  • Comes equipped with a lot of construction tools
  • Elegant and smooth design, specific to commercial work
  • Thick rubber tread on all four feet to maintain balance
  • High-quality fiberglass construction - one of the best fiberglass ladders
  • Good ladder height
Cons
  • Shipping might be slower than other choices
Key Specs
MaterialFiberglass
TypeCommercial
Size6 Foot
Expert Tip

Sturdiness

Briana Yablonski

A step ladder or folding ladder with four legs will typically be more stable than a straight ladder with two legs. If using a straight ladder, maintain a 4:1 ratio between the height of the ladder to the distance of the ladder’s base from the wall.

Ladder Buyer’s Guide

Ladders can be an incredibly useful tool for both the home and workplace. However, a lot of times, they’re overlooked. This is because most people are likely to have a set already. But if your ladder is old, you may need a new one! Your ladder must be safe to use. The majority of at-home injuries come from faulty ladders. If you want to keep your family or colleagues safe, you should purchase a sturdy ladder.

Ladder Types

The ladder best for you will depend on your needs, and different types of ladders do different things. For example, a ladder you use for cleaning gutters will be vastly different from your average attic ladder. You may want an extension ladder to reach particularly tall heights. Straight ladders are good for tackling power lines and other tall jobs. This type of ladder will need stable ground.

Or maybe you want a multi-position ladder to reach a number of spots. Multi-position ladders are a great buy if you need something for your workplace, as they can handle a range of jobs. Or maybe you’re looking for a step stool or a step ladder. Unlike extension ladders, step ladders can’t extend to change position.

They make great attic ladders and are perfect if you want to change a lightbulb. Consider a staircase ladder if you’re looking for the best attic ladder. When looking into the best ladder for your needs, you should consider:

The Ladder’s Maximum Size

You need to match your ladder to the size of the job. This will ensure it’s the safest one for you. In most cases, you shouldn’t be any higher than two steps from the top of your step ladder. Going any higher could be very dangerous. You need to allow room for your height and reach when shopping for ladders.

woman paint on a step ladders

The Ladder’s Load Capacity

Depending on the type and size of the ladder, the maximum weight capacity can differ significantly. For instance, a ladder over 300 pounds won’t be portable. The best ladder brand depends on many factors, but we have some suggestions. If you’re shopping for a 3-step ladder like the Deluxe 3 Step Folding Stepladder, you just need to consider your own weight.

However, if you’re shopping for a commercial ladder, like the Louisville Ladder FS4006, you not only need to consider the weight of whoever’s using it but also the combined weight of all your tools as well.

What Kind of Ladder Do I Need?

There are various ladders available, many of which are suited to specific jobs. The correct ladder for you will depend entirely on your needs. If you need something for the home, consider a portable step ladder. These ladders are easy to store and are designed to be used on minor household chores, such as light-duty or reaching the attic door.

If you’re looking for a ladder that can withstand various chores, consider a multi-purpose ladder like the Little Giant 22-Foot Velocity Multi-Use Ladder. Little Giant ladders are super high-quality and can be adjusted to various heights or uses. There’s a reason we feature more than one Little Giant ladder on our list.

It’s because Little Giant Ladder systems will see you through many jobs. Little Giant ladders also come in many different ladder styles. If you need something for both the home and on the jobsite, you could try a telescopic ladder like the Xtend & Climb 770P Telescoping-Ladder. These ladders offer great reach with compact storage.

Alternatively, look for a podium ladder. The best podium ladder (or platform ladders) will give you that extra bit of support when working. Podium ladders feature a frame that wraps around the work zone. These types of ladders also usually feature a tool tray. So if you’re going to be working with a lot of tools, choose a podium ladder.

A-Frame ladders are also a good pick too. If you need two people on one job, go for an A-frame ladder. If you’re looking for something for both indoor and outdoor use, you’ll need a ladder that can handle uneven surfaces.

Wood ladders won’t be good either, as the ladder may need to battle the elements – save that for your attic ladder. All ladders should be slip-resistant. Make sure to check the product description to ensure it has all the features you need, and that it will reach the desired height.

What is a Telescoping Ladder?

A telescopic ladder can be expanded or contracted. In most cases, these ladders double as an extension ladder. This means it can slide up or down or will fold for you to store away – either around the home or workplace.

How to Store Ladders

Ladder storage differs greatly depending on what kind of ladder you have. If you have a small stepladder, you can fold it up when not in use and keep it in a small cupboard within the home. Store larger ladders horizontally. Support the length to prevent sagging.

You need to find a wide enough space to accommodate your ladder. Many people keep their ladders on the walls in the garage, basement, or attic – where they’re close enough to find when needed but won’t get in the way of daily life.

step ladders in a kitchen

How Do Extension Ladders Work?

Extension ladders deliver brilliant height in a compact space. The best extension ladders will reach a good height but will also be compact for easy storage. These ladders must have their feet based firmly on the floor before you expand them. Make sure you clip your ladder and secure it into place before using it.

Did You Know?

You should never climb to the very top of the ladder. The highest you can safely go is around two steps from the top. Always check the ladder’s duty rating for extra safety. Also, check to see if the product adheres to the OSHA and ANSI standards of safety.

Ladders should be stored horizontally to prevent sagging and loss of strength.

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