Your baby is growing up and becoming more and more independent every day, right?
However, they’re not quite tall enough yet to do all the activities you want them to do on their own.
They still need you to lift them to the right height.
And your back could really use a break 😉
We’ve all been there with kids.
So, a step stool is the solution for your child to gain autonomy, and for you to give your back and shoulders a break.
There’s no shortage of offers for kids and baby step stools.
But how do you navigate when you’re looking to buy your first step stool?
Because yes, you’re looking for a step stool that is practical, durable, and above all, safe for your baby!
Just like you, I was in the same situation a few years ago 😉
I’m sharing my advice on choosing the best step stool for your child and where to find them in stores and online.
Let’s get started !
What is the purpose of a step stool for babies and children ?
The main purpose of a step stool for babies is to give them the few extra centimeters they need to be at the right height for various daily tasks.
The goal of a step stool is to develop a child’s autonomy without them always having to say, “Pick me up!”
So with a step stool, your baby can:
- Wash their hands
- Brush their teeth
- Comb their hair with their brush
- Use the toilet with a potty seat
- Choose clothes from their wardrobe
- Select their favorite toys stored higher up
- Help in the kitchen by being at the same height
- Or even, for Christmas, help set up the tree by reaching the higher branches
Which brands are recommended for the quality of children’s step stools ?
Discover the TOP 12 best brands for choosing a step stool for your kid ;).
Step stool JESSA LEONA
- The number one
- Double step
- Lightweight : 2.1 Pounds
- Comfort grip steps
- Secure on any floor surface
Step stool VICTOSTAR
- Ultra Lightweight : 0.11 Ounces
- 4 colors versions
- Two step stool
- Safety design
Step stool ILOVE
- Lightweight : 1.86 pounds
- Duo pack for your two kids
- Soft Grip Rubber
- Two step stool
- Thick and Durable Feet
Step stool Onasti
- 3 step stool
- Foldable
- Easy to Assemble and Clean
Step stool WOOD CITY
- Natural birch wood
- Easy to assemble and move
- Extra non-slip-pads
Step stool HOOBRO
- Beautiful design
- Wooden Step stool
- Load capacity : 300 lbs
Step stool DREAMBABY
- Cheapest
- Anti-slip design
- Extra Lightweight : 0.38 Kilograms
Step stool AMBIRD
- Beautiful design
- Non Slip Pads
- Smooth, Round Corner
Step stool LAUNDRY
- Support kids and adults
- Strong and durable : support 300 lbs
- Foldable step stool
Step stool WIIFO
- 2 packs
- Easy to clean
- Two stools in one-use together or separately
Step stool NICKELODEON
- Child favorite characters design
- Lightweight : 14.8 ounces
Step stool BAMGROW
- The most beautiful step stool
- Large Maximum Weight : it can be used for adults up to 220 lbs
- Move It Easily For Kids: With handles on both sides
How to Choose a Baby and kids Step Stool ?
What are the important features to look for when buying a step stool for children?
Here are my 4 tips for choosing the right Step Stool for your kid as soon as they can stand on their own.
A Lightweight Step Stool at the Right Height
What is the recommended height for a baby step stool? There isn’t a recommended height, but a step stool should be at least 7,80 inches high.
Choose a step stool with one or two steps depending on your child’s height.
Also, consider where you want to store your step stool daily.
For me, it was under the bathroom sink. So, there was a height limit to store it properly.
Think carefully about this point because otherwise, I can assure you that you will get tired of seeing it lying around everywhere :).
A Secure and Non-Slip Step Stool
Make sure the step stool is stable and does not tip easily. Non-slip feet contribute to better stability.
Even if this information is rarely provided, check the maximum weight the step stool can support to ensure it is suitable for the kid.
Also, avoid step stools with edges and shapes that could harm your child.
For example, consider this step stool, which at first glance looks very premium but does not meet safety requirements:
- No non-slip coating
- Dangerous edges for babies
A Lightweight and Easily Portable Step Stool for Your Child
Some step stools weigh several kilos (especially wooden ones), so your child will have difficulty moving it around the house to accompany you.
Choose a step stool weighing less than a kilo:
- So that your baby can carry it as quickly as possible and therefore become independent more quickly.
- So that your baby does not bump into everything in the house with it.
A Step Stool with an Ergonomic and Pleasant Shape
The goal is to make the step stool attractive and fun, thus turning a simple practical step into an enjoyable experience for the kid.
This can help make the process of learning autonomy more engaging and positive.
Also, pay attention to the size of the base where your children will place their feet.
Some models have a base that is too small, which can be quite bothersome for your child daily.
Imagine yourself on a platform where your feet hang over.
Comfort is not there 😉
Where to Use a Step Stool ?
A Step Stool in the Kitchen
Similar to a learning tower, this will be ideal for the kid to help in the kitchen with you or even to wash their hands at a raised height.
A Step Stool in the Bathroom
Allowing your baby/child to be at the right height for brushing teeth, washing hands, and even combing their hair, for example. The uses in the bathroom with a step stool are so numerous.
A Step Stool for the Toilet
Yes, many parents make this mistake when choosing a step stool.
You want your child to learn cleanliness directly on your toilet with a reducer, but have you thought about how they will get onto the toilet seat?
The step stool is ideal for your kid to independently sit on the toilet.
For use in the toilet with a reducer, I recommend a step stool with two steps so that the baby can climb onto the toilet.
A Step Stool in Their Room:
Do not neglect this use ;).
Your kid likes to participate in their daily routine, even more so if it involves them.
With their child’s step stool, they can choose their clothes from their wardrobe or reach for toys they want to play with.
They will gain autonomy and will not always need to say “MOMMMMMM”.
Wooden Step Stool or Plastic ?
Most step stool models are made of plastic.
However, quite a few models like the one from Ikea are made of wood.
Indeed, these wooden step stools have several advantages that make them popular with parents and families. Here are some of these advantages:
- Aesthetic: Wooden step stools often have an aesthetic and warm appearance. Natural wood can blend harmoniously with different types of decor.
- Durability: Wood is a durable material, which means that wooden step stools can withstand frequent use and have a longer lifespan than some other materials.
- Stability: Wooden step stools are generally stable due to the natural strength of the material. This provides a solid and safe platform for children.
- Variety of Designs: Wood offers a wide variety of design possibilities. Wooden step stools can be found in a range of shapes, sizes, and styles, allowing parents to choose the one that best fits their preferences.
- Weight Capacity: Wood is capable of supporting heavy weights, which is important for children’s safety. Wooden step stools can often accommodate children of different ages.
- Environmentally Friendly: If wood is sourced responsibly, wooden step stools can be considered a more environmentally friendly option compared to some plastics. It is important to check eco-friendly certifications when purchasing.
- Ease of Maintenance: Wooden step stools are generally easy to maintain. A simple wipe with a damp cloth may be sufficient to keep them clean.
- Non-Slip Texture: Some wooden step stool models are designed with a non-slip surface, providing additional grip to prevent slips.
- Customizable: Wood can be painted or stained, offering the possibility to customize the step stool according to the home decor preferences.
Where to Buy a Step Stool ?
You have two choices to find the perfect step stool for your kid:
- Either, in a children’s store, but however, you will only have access to two or three step stools on the shelves.
- Or, online on platforms with many sellers like Amazon, where you will have an array of choices for the ideal step stool for your family. There are even options for you if you need one ;).
So, to answer the question “where to buy a step stool for a kid” ?
Buy a step stool in a store like Ikea
Allowing you to test the sturdiness of the step stool and the non-slip features.
Buy a step stool online on Amazon
Allowing you to make your choice in the world’s largest shop. However, only reviews and photos can help you make the right choice.
What Age is Suitable for a Child Step Stool ?
The use of a step stool for a child depends on their motor development and their ability to use this accessory safely.
Generally, children begin to show interest in using a step stool around the age of 1 to 2 years, when their gross motor skills and balance start to develop.
Some children may be ready to use a step stool earlier, while others may need more time.
In any case, make sure that the step stool is stable, non-slip, and suitable for the child’s size.
It is also recommended to always supervise children when they use step stools and to help them develop good usage habits to avoid any risk of falling.
What is the Price Range for a kid Step Stool ?
You can expect to pay between €20 and €35 for a plastic or wooden child step stool.
Naturally, wooden step stools are more expensive than plastic ones.
Is it Recommended to Use a Step Stool for a 2-Year-Old ?
Yes, you can absolutely use a step stool for a 2-year-old and even earlier depending on your child’s growth and motor skills.
It is up to you to judge if your child is stable and tall enough to reach and use new accessories they discover with a step stool.
Is it Better to Choose a Step Stool with or without Handles ?
Personally, I recommend opting for a child step stool with handles.
Some step stools can be wide and therefore more difficult to carry with both hands for your child.
With handles, your child can hold it with one hand, allowing them to transport it more easily and, as we discussed earlier, without bumping into all the walls in the house 🙂
The handle can be either located on the sides or in the center of the step stool.
What is the Difference Between a kid Stool and a Step Stool ?
A stool serves the function of providing a seat for your kid.
Unlike a step stool, which, as the name suggests, serves solely as a step for a child to increase their reach and gain height
Why Choose a Folding Step Stool for Your Child ?
Indeed, there are folding and non-folding models for children’s step stools.
But why both models?
The advantage of a folding step stool is the space it will take up when not in use.
Depending on your home, you may need to either store your step stool under furniture or fold it to take up less space in width.
This choice is especially tailored to your need for space, as space becomes increasingly scarce when we have children.
A folding step stool, therefore, saves space!
