Buying ladders and steps: what to look for

Short answer: first choose the type that matches the job. For painting, ceilings and light fittings, a sturdy stepladder with a platform is usually best. For changing heights and tight storage, a folding ladder is handy. For long painting sessions, a painter ladder is more stable. Then check working height, maximum load and whether you want a platform you can stand on safely.

Read this article in Dutch as well: Ladders en trappen kopen: waar let je op?.

Which ladder types are there?

On saniso.nl you mainly find these types:

• Stepladder / household ladder: A-frame, often with platform and handrail. Stable for indoor painting, hanging and maintenance.
• Folding ladder: stores narrow, with or without a handle. Handy in flats and vans.
• Painter ladder: wood or aluminium, often usable from both sides. Popular with painters because two people can work side by side.
• Multi-purpose / articulated ladder: several positions (step, straight ladder, platform set-up).

Each type has its strength. If you want one ladder for most jobs, you often end up with a platform stepladder or a multi-purpose ladder. If you work on many sites, combine a compact folding ladder with a heavier stepladder on the van.

1. Working height: how many steps do you need?

More steps mean more reach, but also more weight and a larger footprint. As a rule of thumb, working height is roughly standing height plus your reach. Never stand on the top step or the handrail.

💡 Measure the height you really need. A ladder that is too tall is awkward in a small room and tempts you to overreach.

2. Load rating: 120 kg or 150 kg?

The maximum load is on the label. It covers you plus tools and materials on the ladder.

• 120 kg: fine for light household work, such as changing a bulb or painting a cupboard. Examples: the 120 kg 3-step household ladder with platform, 120 kg 4-step household ladder with platform and 120 kg 5-step household ladder with platform.
• 150 kg: sturdier and better if you work with tools, paint cans or heavier shoes. Examples: the 150 kg 3-step household ladder with platform through to the 150 kg 6-step household ladder with platform, and the double-sided household ladder with platform.

On site and for professional painting, prefer 150 kg. If you hesitate between two ratings, choose the higher one: you work more calmly and the ladder lasts longer.

3. Platform or rungs?

A platform you can stand on with both feet is more comfortable and safer for longer jobs. You have both hands free and lean less. That is why platform stepladders are popular with painters and DIYers. A double-sided step such as the double-sided household ladder with platform helps when two people work on opposite sides, for example hanging a curtain rail.

4. Folding or multi-purpose?

If storage is tight or you work on the move, look at a slim 3-step folding ladder with handle or slim 4-step folding ladder with handle. They fold narrow and fit in a cupboard or the back of a van. If you want one ladder in several positions (straight, step, work platform), the multi-purpose articulated aluminium ladder with platform is a practical all-rounder. Read the manual: each position has its own maximum load and working height.

5. Material: aluminium or wood?

Aluminium is light, strong and low-maintenance: ideal for most jobs. Wooden painter ladders, such as the wooden painter ladder 2 x 7 steps, feel stable and are traditionally used for indoor painting. Wood needs a little more care (store dry, check for cracks). Electrical work at height should always be left to a qualified electrician: a ladder does not replace training and test equipment.

6. What else matters?

• Stable feet that do not slip on smooth floors.
• Solid hinges and locks that you can hear or see engage.
• Handrail on stepladders, so you have something to hold.
• Weight: choose lighter for daily carrying; heavier is fine if it stays on the van.
• Label: check that load, type and any standard marking are clearly shown.

You recognise quality tools by the details. More in our blog on recognising quality tools and our brand blog on Stalco.

Working safely on a ladder

A good ladder will not protect you if you use it wrongly.

• Place it on a flat, firm surface. Never put a brick or bucket under a leg.
• Climb with three points of contact: two feet and one hand, or two hands and one foot.
• Do not overreach sideways: move the ladder instead.
• Keep the platform or rungs free of paint, oil and clutter.
• Do not work on a ladder in strong wind, on ice, or if you feel dizzy.

Broader site safety tips are in our blog on safe working on the construction site. For transport on a van or trailer: our blog on transporting ladders and scaffolds safely.

PPE when working at height

Wear sturdy safety shoe with grip so you do not slip off a rung. work gloves with nitrile coating help when lifting and holding. safety goggles protects your eyes when sanding or drilling above your head. More on shoes and gloves in our blog on choosing safety shoes and our buying guide for work gloves.

⚠️ A household stepladder is not automatically suitable for daily professional site use. Choose a ladder that matches that load and those conditions, and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Do it yourself or call a professional?

Changing bulbs, painting a ceiling or fitting a smoke alarm: with the right stepladder you can often do that yourself. But working at height remains risky.

👷 For facades, roofs, long straight ladders, poor ground or heavy tools, a scaffold, mobile elevating work platform or a professional with proper fall protection is often safer. Unsure about electrics, gas or water at height? Call a qualified installer. A ladder does not remove that risk.

Quick choice

Frequently asked questions

Is a 120 kg stepladder enough?

For light household work, usually yes. If you work with tools, paint and heavier shoes, choose 150 kg.

May I stand on the top step?

No. Use the platform or stay at least one step below the top, as the manufacturer states.

What is better: folding ladder or stepladder?

A stepladder with platform is more stable for longer work. A folding ladder is more compact for storage and transport.

Do I need a painter ladder?

Only if you paint often and for long sessions. Otherwise a good platform stepladder is enough.

How do I transport a ladder safely?

Secure it so it cannot slide, mark overhang where needed, and do not overload. Read our blog on transporting ladders and scaffolds safely.

Where can you find everything for this job?

At Saniso, the online store for DIYers and professionals, you will find tools, materials and personal protective equipment for your job.

• Browse our construction tools and our workwear and safety.
• Create a customer account and order easily.
• Working on a bigger project or want to hand over the job? Request a project quote.
• Book a showroom visit, at least 24 hours in advance.
• Not sure which material suits your job? Get in touch with us.

In doubt about the approach? Feel free to call in a professional.

Saniso – Build your home with Saniso.