Best Ladders for Stairs: How to Choose the Right Ladder

What is the best ladder to use on stairs?

For most short-duration decorating, maintenance and access jobs, a combination ladder with a manufacturer-approved stairwell configuration is usually the most practical choice.

Unlike a conventional step ladder, selected combination ladders can be configured so one side is shorter than the other. This allows the feet to sit securely on two different levels of the staircase while keeping the ladder in its intended working position.

However, a combination ladder is not automatically the right solution for every job.

The best equipment depends on what you are trying to do:

• Painting or decorating above stairs: a stairwell-compatible combination ladder may provide the access you need.
• Changing a light fitting or carrying out short maintenance: a combination ladder can be suitable if it provides the correct working height.
• Longer decorating or maintenance jobs: a stair tower or suitable working platform may offer more room to work.
• Regular professional use: choose equipment intended for professional use and appropriate for the task.
• Working near electrical hazards: use suitable non-conductive access equipment designed for that environment.

If you already know you need a ladder that can work across different stair levels, browse our combination ladders for use on stairs.

Why shouldn't you use a normal step ladder on stairs?

A conventional step ladder is designed to stand with its feet properly supported on a suitable, stable surface. A staircase creates different floor levels, which means a normal step ladder cannot simply be positioned across the steps in the same way it would be used on a flat floor.

You should not try to compensate by placing blocks, timber, boxes or other makeshift objects beneath the ladder feet.

The Health and Safety Executive's ladder guidance stresses the importance of using suitable equipment, positioning ladders securely and avoiding unstable setups.

If your job requires you to work across different stair levels, choose a ladder or access system that has been designed for that purpose.

Types of ladder for stairs and when to use each

Combination ladders

A combination ladder is usually the most versatile option for staircase work because selected models can be configured as a step ladder, leaning ladder and stairwell ladder.

In stairwell mode, the two sides can be positioned at different heights. One side sits on a lower stair or floor while the other sits higher up the staircase.

This makes combination ladders particularly useful for decorating, painting, maintenance and other short-duration jobs around a stairwell.

If you want to understand the different configurations in more detail, read our Combination Ladder Guide.

Multi-purpose ladders

Multi-purpose ladders work in a similar way but may offer additional configurations beyond a conventional three-way combination ladder.

Depending on the model, these can include different A-frame heights, leaning positions and other configurations that make them useful where access conditions change regularly.

They can be a strong option for tradespeople or homeowners who want one ladder to cover several different jobs.

Stair towers and platforms

A ladder is not always the best solution.

If you are decorating a large stairwell, carrying out a longer-duration task or need more freedom to move while you work, a suitable tower or platform system may offer a better working position.

The HSE recommends selecting access equipment based on the task, duration and conditions rather than automatically choosing a ladder for every job.

Platform step ladders

Platform step ladders provide a defined standing platform and can be useful for indoor maintenance and decorating on flat surfaces.

However, a standard platform step ladder should not be used across different stair levels unless the particular product is specifically designed and approved for that purpose.

For normal level-floor work, you can view our platform step ladders.

Comparison table: which ladder is best for your job?

How to choose the right ladder for your staircase

1. Start with the job you need to complete

Don't choose a ladder simply because it offers the greatest possible height.

Consider what you actually need to reach. This might be:

• a stairwell wall
• a ceiling above the staircase
• a light fitting
• a window
• the upper section of a landing

The type of work matters too. A quick maintenance task has different access requirements from spending several hours painting or decorating.

2. Check the working height

Working height gives a better indication of the area you can realistically reach than simply looking at the overall length of the ladder.

Measure the highest point you need to access and compare this with the manufacturer's stated working heights for the configuration you intend to use.

Avoid selecting a ladder that requires you to stretch or lean excessively to complete the job.

3. Make sure the ladder is approved for stairwell use

Not every combination or multi-purpose ladder can necessarily be used in every configuration.

Always check the manufacturer's instructions and product specification to confirm that the particular ladder and size you are considering is suitable for use on stairs.

4. Consider the staircase dimensions

Staircases vary considerably in width, tread depth, pitch and landing space.

A ladder that works comfortably on a large open staircase may be difficult to position on a narrow or steep staircase.

Before buying, consider:

• the width of your staircase
• the depth of the stair treads
• the space available on the landing
• doorways or walls that could restrict positioning
• the folded and open dimensions of the ladder

5. Think about how long you'll be working

Ladders are primarily suited to shorter-duration, light work where they can be positioned securely.

If you expect to remain at height for a longer period, need to move around frequently or need both hands free for substantial work, consider whether a suitable platform or tower system would be more appropriate.

6. Check weight and portability

Combination and multi-purpose ladders can be heavier than standard step ladders because of their additional sections, hinges and locking mechanisms.

If you will regularly move the ladder between floors, properties or job sites, check its weight and folded dimensions before buying.

How do combination ladders work on stairs?

A combination ladder uses hinged or adjustable sections that lock into different positions.

When a model includes a stairwell configuration, one side can be positioned differently from the other so the ladder accommodates the change in level created by the staircase.

This makes it possible to position the ladder securely without trying to artificially level the stairs using loose objects beneath the feet.

The exact setup varies by manufacturer and model, so always follow the instructions supplied with the ladder.

Before climbing:

• check that the ladder is in the correct approved configuration
• make sure all locking mechanisms are fully engaged
• ensure every foot is securely supported
• check that the steps or floor are clean and stable
• make sure the ladder cannot be struck by a door or other obstruction
• carry out a visual pre-use inspection

Choosing the right Ladderstore option

Ladderstore stocks a dedicated range of combination ladders for use on stairs, making this the best place to start if stairwell access is your main requirement.

If you also need the ladder for jobs elsewhere around the home or workplace, a versatile combination ladder can make more sense than buying separate ladders for every task.

Before choosing a model, compare:

• stairwell suitability
• working height
• available configurations
• overall ladder weight
• folded storage dimensions
• professional or domestic usage requirements

For a broader explanation of the different ladder configurations available, see our Combination Ladder Guide.

HSE ladder safety guidance

The Work at Height Regulations require suitable equipment to be selected for work where a person could fall a distance liable to cause personal injury.

Ladders are not prohibited, but they need to be appropriate for the job and used correctly.

For stairwell work in particular, check that:

• the ladder is designed for the configuration you intend to use
• all feet are securely supported
• hinges and locking mechanisms are fully engaged
• the ladder is free from visible damage
• you can reach the working area without excessive leaning or stretching
• the task is suitable for ladder use rather than requiring a tower or platform

The HSE provides further guidance on safe ladder selection, inspection and use.