Skip to content

Top Navigation

Martha Stewart Martha Stewart
  • FOOD
  • HOLIDAYS
  • ENTERTAINING
  • HOME
  • GARDENING
  • CLEANING & ORGANIZING
  • WEDDINGS
  • SHOP
  • DIY
  • BEAUTY & WELLNESS
  • LIFE
  • NEWS
  • MARTHA'S BLOG
  • About Us

Profile Menu

Martha's Blog
Your Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Contact Us
  • Your Content
  • Logout

More

  • Enter to Win $10,000 to Makeover Your Home!
  • Martha's Blog
  • Weddings
Login
Pin FB

Explore Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart Martha Stewart
  • Explore

    Explore

    • 5 Kitchen Cabinet Paint Colors That Will Never Go Out of Style, According to Interior Designers

      5 Kitchen Cabinet Paint Colors That Will Never Go Out of Style, According to Interior Designers

      Choose a shade that works with a range of backsplash and countertop materials. Read More
    • Let Go of These 8 Household Items as We Start the New Year

      Let Go of These 8 Household Items as We Start the New Year

      Reclaim your space by parting with things in your home you no longer use or have been damaged over time. Read More
    • 93 Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes to Make Any Night of the Week

      93 Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes to Make Any Night of the Week

      From chili and chicken cutlets to spaghetti and meatballs and sheet-pan salmon, consider this your ultimate guide to making a fast weeknight dinner. Read More
  • FOOD

    FOOD

    See All FOOD
    93 Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes to Make Any Night of the Week

    93 Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes to Make Any Night of the Week

    From chili and chicken cutlets to spaghetti and meatballs and sheet-pan salmon, consider this your ultimate guide to making a fast weeknight dinner.
    • Breakfast & Brunch Recipes
    • Lunch Recipes
    • Dinner Recipes
    • Appetizers & Snacks
    • Dessert Recipes
    • Drink Recipes
    • Salad Recipes
    • Side Dishes
    • Soup Recipes
    • Healthy Recipes
    • Quick & Easy Recipes
    • Vegetarian Recipes
    • Cooking How-Tos
    • Baking
    • Menu Planning
    • Food News & Trends
    • Wine
    • Mastering the Holiday Meal
    • What's for Dinner
    • All Recipes
  • HOLIDAYS

    HOLIDAYS

    See All HOLIDAYS
    40 Valentine's Day Dessert Recipes That You'll Fall in Love With

    40 Valentine's Day Dessert Recipes That You'll Fall in Love With

    The sweetest way to say "I love you" is with one of these heartfelt, homemade Valentine's Day desserts. Whether you're looking for a treat for your partner, your Galentine's crew, or the co-workers who adore your home baking, you'll find plenty of inspiration in this collection, filled with heart-shaped cakes, cupcakes, and cookies—plus, easy chocolate truffles and decadent mousses and parfaits. Our recipes include desserts for two to share and sweets that feed a crowd. We rate them all above a bunch of red roses any day.
    • Father's Day
    • Fourth of July
    • Halloween
    • Thanksgiving
    • Hanukkah
    • Christmas
    • New Year's Eve
    • Valentine's Day
    • St. Patricks Day
    • Passover
    • Easter
    • Mother's Day
  • ENTERTAINING

    ENTERTAINING

    See All ENTERTAINING
    6 Things to Always Clean Before Guests Come Over

    6 Things to Always Clean Before Guests Come Over

    You don't have to give your house a top-to-bottom scrub before guests arrive, but there are a few areas you should pay attention to.
    • Seasonal Entertaining & Decorating
    • Halloween Party Ideas
    • Dinner Party Ideas
    • Adult Halloween Costumes
  • HOME

    HOME

    See All HOME
    6 Kitchen Paint Trends to Consider in 2023

    6 Kitchen Paint Trends to Consider in 2023

    Bolder tones, like cherry red and deep olive green, will dominate in the heart of the home.
    • Home Design & Decor
    • Paint Colors & Palettes
    • DIY Home Projects
    • The Well-Kept Home
  • GARDENING

    GARDENING

    See All GARDENING
    How to Winter Sow—Plus, 6 Expert-Approved Seeds to Plant During the Cold-Weather Months

    How to Winter Sow—Plus, 6 Expert-Approved Seeds to Plant During the Cold-Weather Months

    These blooms are tolerant to the chilly conditions, which will allow you to get ahead on your spring flower garden.
    • Container Gardening
    • Flower Gardens
    • Houseplants
    • Landscaping
    • Vegetable Gardens
  • CLEANING & ORGANIZING

    CLEANING & ORGANIZING

    How to Remove Hard Water Stains From a Glass Shower—and Prevent Future Build-Up Before It Forms

    How to Remove Hard Water Stains From a Glass Shower—and Prevent Future Build-Up Before It Forms

    The spots develop when water dries on glass and leaves behind the minerals that were trapped inside.
    • Cleaning
    • Storage & Organization
    • Laundry & Linens
  • WEDDINGS

    WEDDINGS

    See All WEDDINGS
    Experts Say These Are the 7 Things Happy Couples Regularly Do Together

    Experts Say These Are the 7 Things Happy Couples Regularly Do Together

    • Real Weddings
    • Wedding Party
    • Wedding Planning & Advice
    • Wedding Ceremony & Reception
    • Wedding Jewelry
    • Dresses & Style
    • Wedding Beauty & Wellness
    • Wedding Registry
    • Wedding Showers & Parties
    • Love & Marriage
    • Wedding Travel
  • SHOP
  • DIY

    DIY

    See All DIY
    Ready for a New Hobby? These Are the 8 Craft Trends to Try in 2023

    Ready for a New Hobby? These Are the 8 Craft Trends to Try in 2023

    From disco ball art to punch needle embroidery, these are the projects that will dominate the DIY world in the new year, experts say.
    • Dyeing
    • Holiday Crafts
    • Kids' Crafts
    • Knitting
    • Paper Crafts
    • Sewing
  • BEAUTY & WELLNESS

    BEAUTY & WELLNESS

    The Truth About Slugging: Will Applying Petrolatum Jelly to Your Skin Really Make It Glow?

    The Truth About Slugging: Will Applying Petrolatum Jelly to Your Skin Really Make It Glow?

    In short, yes—should you have a skin type that might benefit from an occlusive product.
    • Beauty
    • Health & Wellness
    • Live Well
  • LIFE

    LIFE

    See All LIFE
    9 Dog Breeds That Look Like Puppies Even When They're Fully Grown

    9 Dog Breeds That Look Like Puppies Even When They're Fully Grown

    Puppies are irresistible. We fall in love with their big eyes, little button noses, fluffy tails, and clumsy paws. And yet, like any pet, puppies grow up and turn into dogs. Some breeds, like the Old English Sheepdog or Great Dane, will grow to become larger in size than most people. But not all dogs are destined to become giants. There are some breeds that stay small in size even when they're fully grown. You may want a forever puppy if you are used to smaller animals. Maybe you have a small apartment or just want a canine companion that you can easily carry along with you anywhere you go. Small dogs are also great for families with young children or those of senior age who are best matched with a breed they can physically handle. Fortunately, some specialty dog breeds are mixed to look like puppies throughout their entire lives—and they are sure to melt your heart the second you lay your eyes on them. 
    • Family
    • Pets
    • Travel
  • NEWS
  • MARTHA'S BLOG
  • About Us

Profile Menu

Martha's Blog
Your Account

Account

  • Join Now
  • Email Preferences
  • Newsletter
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Manage Your Subscription this link opens in a new tab
  • Contact Us
  • Your Content
  • Logout

More

  • Enter to Win $10,000 to Makeover Your Home!
  • Martha's Blog
  • Weddings
Login
Sweepstakes

Follow Us

  1. marthastewart.com
  2. Home
  3. The Best Stepping Stools for Hard-to-Reach Places in Your Home

The Best Stepping Stools for Hard-to-Reach Places in Your Home

Lauren Wellbank, Freelance Writer
By Lauren Wellbank January 21, 2021
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Skip gallery slides
Pin
Serena & Lily Smoke Teak Step Stool
Credit: Courtesy of Serena & Lily

These functional essentials—which you can liken to miniature ladders—don't have to be eyesores.

Start Slideshow

1 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message
Serena & Lily Smoke Teak Step Stool
Credit: Courtesy of Serena & Lily

Every homeowner needs a stepping stool, and once you have one, you'll rely on it to access everything from the top part of your pantry or a hard-to-reach, deep shelf at the back of your linen closet. Unfortunately, not everyone has the storage space for a full-blown ladder—nor do you always need that much of a leg up. That's where stepping stools come in. These smaller options are generally just a foot or two in height and can either be tucked under another piece of furniture or folded down to fit into the back of a closet or under your bed. To give you a lift—whatever your vertical needs are—we went ahead and culled several of our favorite options.

You'll find a few varieties of stepping stools on our list: single-step, folding, multi-step, or some mix of the three. Stools with just one level are often just a box-shaped piece that doesn't fold or flatten; these double as benches or additional seating for children and normally fit under end tables or can be stowed away at the bottom of a coat closet. Folding stepping stools are taller, allowing you to reach higher items. These pieces are normally foldable and can be hung on a garage or pantry wall—or slid horizontally underneath a bed or sofa. Multi-step iterations, as the name implies, boast at least two steps; some can also be folded, while others serve better as a displayed bench or mobile storage solution. 

What all of these stools have in common, though, are aesthetics—not a single option is an eyesore. Let that serve as yet another reminder that even the most utilitarian house essentials can be aesthetically pleasing. Ahead, find the perfect stepping stool you won't mind leaving out.

1 of 11

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Minimal

IKEA BEKVAM Home Indoor Solid Wood Step Stool in Black
Credit: Courtesy of Amazon

Made in Sweden, this solid wood stepping stool is minimalist in appearance, but maximizes space by offering a 17-inch boost. Just don't forget your toolbox—you'll have to assemble this piece yourself once it arrives.

Shop Now: IKEA BEKVAM Home Indoor Solid Wood Step Stool in Black, $84.95, amazon.com.

2 of 11

3 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Two-Step

Ascent Designer Series Slim 2-Step Stool
Credit: Courtesy of Bed Bath & Beyond

The slim profile of this piece will make it a favorite in your home. When unfolded, it offers nearly 39 inches of height. It comes in a variety of colors, but we love the cherry red option, which will keep your stool from getting lost in a corner when it's folded up. You'll be able to spot it when you need it.

Shop Now: Ascent Designer Series Slim 2-Step Stool, $54.99, bedbathandbeyond.com.

3 of 11

Advertisement

4 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Funky

Purill Step Stool
Credit: Courtesy of Wayfair

Made in Italy, this nontraditional stool has plenty of flair. Rest your feet on it while enjoying your morning cup of coffee or use it when you need to get to that just-out-of-reach shelf.

Shop Now: Purill Step Stool, $82.99, wayfair.com.

4 of 11

5 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Petite

Jenny Lind White Step Stool
Credit: Courtesy of Crate & Barrel

The perfect stool for a bedroom or powder room, this petite option is great for kids. Don't let its slight stature fool you: It's absolutely sturdy enough to give you or your children a leg up.

Shop Now: Jenny Lind White Step Stool, $79, crateandbarrel.com.

5 of 11

6 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Teak

Serena & Lily Smoke Teak Step Stool
Credit: Courtesy of Serena & Lily

This teak step stool pulls double duty, acting as a step or even sitting stool when needed (it works well during bath time) and a shelving unit (for not-so-frequently used bath products, for example) when not.

Shop Now: Serena & Lily Smoke Teak Step Stool, $148, serenaandlily.com.

6 of 11

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

7 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Powder White

Crate & Barrel "On the Double" White Wooden Step Stool
Credit: Courtesy of Crate & Barrel

You don't have to tuck away this double-step stool when it's not in use—it's too nice to look at. The frame is powder coated with white paint and topped with mango wood tiers.

Shop Now: Crate & Barrel "On the Double" White Wooden Step Stool, $69, crateandbarrel.com.

7 of 11

8 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Wooden

Peg and Awl Handcrafted Wooden Step Stool
Credit: Courtesy of Food52

For a small boost, turn to this sustainably-sourced blackened-oak option. Finished with tung oil and the Japanese wood-charring technique shou sugi ban (this makes it waterproof), the nearly nine-inch-tall stool can be stored in a closet or left out as a decorative accent.

Shop Now: Peg and Awl Handcrafted Wooden Step Stool, $120, food52.com.

8 of 11

9 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

For Kids

EKOBO "Bano" Bamboo Kids Step Stool
Credit: Courtesy of Burke Decor

Searching for a stool that will make it easier for little hands to reach a countertop for snacks or toys? This iteration will get them there. At just six-inches in height, this stool is the ultimate little boost—and the anti-slip surface will keep kids safe.

Shop Now: EKOBO "Bano" Bamboo Kids Step Stool, $29, burkedecor.com.

9 of 11

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

10 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Lightweight

Frontgate Ultralight Slimline 3 Step Stool
Credit: Courtesy of Frontgate

If you're looking for a compact stepping stool that can be stored in tight spaces, you're going to love this model, which comes in a serene sage colorway (amongst others!). The piece folds down to a depth of two inches and weighs in at just 10 pounds; made of aluminum, it boasts three steps so you can access every level of a room with ease.

Shop Now: Frontgate Ultralight Slimline 3 Step Stool, $137.08, frontgate.com.

10 of 11

11 of 11

Pin
Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message

Small Boost

Little Architect Stool in Rose
Credit: Courtesy of Burke Decor

For those looking for a small boost, this option is the answer. The nine-inch-tall piece is one level, and can easily be tucked under side tables or in linen closets.

Shop Now: Little Architect Stool in Rose, $125, burkedecor.com.

11 of 11

Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Pinterest Facebook

Up Next

By Lauren Wellbank

    Share the Gallery

    Pinterest Facebook
    Trending Videos
    Advertisement
    Skip slide summaries

    Everything in This Slideshow

    Advertisement

    View All

    1 of 11
    2 of 11 Minimal
    3 of 11 Two-Step
    4 of 11 Funky
    5 of 11 Petite
    6 of 11 Teak
    7 of 11 Powder White
    8 of 11 Wooden
    9 of 11 For Kids
    10 of 11 Lightweight
    11 of 11 Small Boost

    Share & More

    Facebook Tweet Email Send Text Message
    Martha Stewart

    Learn More

    • Contact Us
    • Customer Service
    • Media Kit
    • Martha's Blog
    • Advertise
    • Content Licensing
    • FAQ
    • Corporate
    • International
    • Accolades this link opens in a new tab

    Connect

    Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    Sign Up
    MeredithMartha Stewart is part of the Meredith Home Group. © Copyright 2023 Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policythis link opens in a new tab Terms of Servicethis link opens in a new tab Ad Choicesthis link opens in a new tab California Do Not Sellthis link opens a modal window Web Accessibilitythis link opens in a new tab
    © Copyright Martha Stewart. All rights reserved. Printed from https://www.marthastewart.com

    Sign in

    View image

    The Best Stepping Stools for Hard-to-Reach Places in Your Home
    this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines.