Little Giant Stepladder, 3-Step
Last updated date: August 27, 2020
DWYM Score
Why Trust The DWYM Score?
DWYM is your trusted product review source. Along with our in-house experts, our team analyzes thousands of product reviews from the most trusted websites. We then create one easy-to-understand score. Learn more.
We looked at the top Step Ladders and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Step Ladder you should buy.
Overall Take
In our analysis of 124 expert reviews, the Little Giant Little Giant Stepladder, 3-Step placed 14th when we looked at the top 15 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.
Editor's Note September 3, 2020:
Checkout The Best Step Ladder for a detailed review of all the top step ladders.
Expert Summarized Score
User Summarized Score
Our Favorite Video Reviews
What experts liked
What experts didn't like
From The Manufacturer
Feels Like You're Standing on the Ground The Little Giant Safety Step is a unique combination of strength and simplicity. The Safety Step is constructed with super-strong, lightweight aerospace-grade aluminum; and its wide, slip-resistant steps give you unmatched comfort and stability. The Safety Step operates so easily that you can open and close it with one hand. Its slim storage depth (5-1/2 inches) will let you store it just about anywhere. It’s also made for professional and industrial use. In fact, the Safety Step is rated to hold up to 300 pounds on each step. This tough, compact step stool can handle just about any task, from the lightest house chore to the heaviest industrial job. View larger Comfort on Every Step Finish any household job with comfort and stability with the Safety Step's generous 9-inch wide, slip-resistant steps. View larger Safe and Convenient Feel secure and comfortable on your Safety Step with the fold-away handrail. 3-Step and 4-Step models feature a handy tool tray. View larger Save Space and Time Fold the easy-to-use Safety Step with one hand and store in only 5-1/2 inches of space. View larger No Carrying, Easy to Handle Tip & Glide Wheels make moving your Safety Step from project to project easy, reducing fatigue and even damage to walls. View larger Solid Construction The Safety Step is rated to hold up to 300 pounds on each step, making it tough enough to handle just about any task.
Overall Product Rankings
An Overview On Step Ladders
While working in your home or garden, you may find that a few tasks are hard to complete without getting yourself a little bit higher. Instead of risking standing on an object or dining room chair, it’s best to invest in a step ladder.
As you search for the best step ladder, keep in mind the weight of the person who is going to be using it. Some models only hold up to 200 pounds. Since the average man weighs between 194 and 201 pounds, that’s cutting it close. The HBTower 3 Step Folding Step Ladder might be a better choice as it can hold up to 500 pounds.
Look at the weight of the ladder itself next. Some models are heavy, which is necessary if you plan on using them for work. For home use, however, you’ll want something lighter and more portable, like the Cosco Signature 3-Step Aluminum Step Ladder that weighs less than 8 pounds.
Check to see if any safety measures are put into place to make using the step ladder less risky. For example, the Delxo Folding Stepladder, 3-Step has a rubber grip covering the handle and waves embedded in each step. Most models also have a locking mechanism that will keep the ladder in an open position, so it doesn’t fold up or fall over while you’re using it.
Determine how far you need to reach. Most models will give you an extra 4 to 6 feet. If you’re looking to complete jobs that require a higher reach, you’ll want to go with a model that actually converts to a 19-foot extension ladder.
Finally, consider any extra features the step ladder may have to offer. For example, it may come with a handy tool tray or it may offer heel-to-toe support to reduce foot fatigue.
DWYM Fun Fact
Ladders have been around for quite a long time. In fact, cave paintings in Valencia, Spain reveal a type of ladder made from grass that was used to reach a bee’s nest to gather some sweet honey. This ladder was thought to be constructed at least 10,000 years ago!
Did you know there is a festival every three years in China that features a ladder made of knives? Participants climb the ladder barefoot and receive prizes when they reach the top.
When it comes to step ladders, it was John H. Balsley from Dayton, Ohio who constructed the first model. He did so back in 1892, and his purpose was to make a smaller ladder that folded for easy storage.
The Step Ladder Buying Guide
- Some models can be configured into a scaffolding system, but they typically require you to purchase additional accessories to do so.
- The assembly of some models might be difficult. Check to see if there are any required tools for assembly before you buy.
- The top platform can be sharp. When on the rungs, your knees may hit the sharp edges.
- Keep in mind taller step ladders are harder to store. They may not fit in a closet, so you’d have to place them in a basement or garage when not in use.
- Warning: Aluminum is a conductor of electricity. It is possible to be electrocuted while standing on an aluminum ladder if you are working with electricity.
- The price for a step ladder is directly related to the size and reach of the ladder. You’ll find the Cosco Signature 3-Step Aluminum Step Ladder is the most affordable. The Rubbermaid 2-Step Steel Step Ladder falls in the middle of the price range with the Delxo Folding Stepladder, 3-Step and the HBTower 3 Step Folding Step Ladder commanding the highest price.