Step stools give your toddler the boost they need to navigate a world built for giants. Whether it’s washing hands independently or helping you mix batter in the kitchen, a sturdy stool bridges the gap between frustration and “I did it myself.”
But if you’ve ever watched a flimsy plastic stool wobble under your child’s feet, you know the anxiety that comes with it. Not all stools are created equal, and a tip-over is the last thing you want in the middle of potty training.
We researched and evaluated the top-rated options to find the safest, most durable, and functional step stools available. From simple bathroom boosters to fully enclosed kitchen towers, these picks prioritize stability so your little one can reach new heights safely.
- Attractive design
- Wide and adjustable height platform
- Can hold up to 200 pounds
- Fun Nickelodeon theme
- Extra-thick material
- Non-slip rubber on surface and feet
- Cute Disney theme
- Lightweight and portable
- Generous width and depth
How to Choose a Step Stool
Once your toddler starts showing interest in independence, a step stool becomes an essential piece of gear. It empowers them to handle tasks like using the toilet, brushing their teeth, or helping in the kitchen without needing a lift every time.
However, picking the right one depends on where you plan to use it and how tall your child is. Here is what you need to look for.
Height and Design
The primary question is: What does your toddler need to reach?
- One-Step Stools: These are usually 5 to 7 inches tall. They are perfect for potty training or for taller toddlers who just need a slight boost to reach the sink.
- Two-Step Stools: These offer more height, usually totaling 10 to 14 inches. They are great for younger toddlers or reaching higher surfaces like kitchen counters.
- Learning Towers: Also known as kitchen helpers, these are fully enclosed platforms with railings. They are the safest option for extended periods at the counter, like baking or crafting, as they prevent falling backward.
Safety Features
Since your child will be standing on this platform, often on hard tile floors, stability is non-negotiable. Look for these specific features:
- Non-Slip Surface: The top of the stool should have a textured or rubberized grip. This prevents socks or wet feet from sliding off the edge.
- Non-Skid Feet: Rubber grips on the bottom of the legs are essential. They keep the stool from sliding out from under your child if they wiggle or shift their weight suddenly.
- Wide Base: A stool with a flared or wide base is much harder to tip over than a narrow one.
Safety Tip
Material and Maintenance
Step stools generally come in two materials: plastic or wood.
- Plastic: These are lightweight, affordable, and easy to wipe down. They are ideal for bathrooms because they handle moisture well and are light enough for a toddler to carry.
- Wood: Wooden stools are sturdier and often look better with home decor. However, they are heavier and can be harder to clean if they aren’t sealed properly.
Product Reviews
We analyzed safety features, weight limits, and ease of cleaning to bring you the 7 best step stools for every room in the house.
iLove 2-Pack Step Stool for Kids
Best Overall Toddler Step Stool
Finding a stool that balances height, safety, and price isn’t easy, but this 2-pack from iLove hits the mark. It is our top pick because you get two durable stools for a great price, allowing you to keep one in the bathroom and one in the kitchen.
These are dual-height stools. The first step is 5.5 inches high, and the top step brings your child up 10.5 inches. This versatility is great for growing toddlers who need help reaching the sink now but will eventually just need a small boost.
Safety is solid here. The steps feature soft, non-slip rubber inserts that are comfortable on bare feet, and the feet have thick rubber grips to hug the floor. They are also stackable, which saves precious floor space when you aren’t using them.
With a weight capacity of 175 pounds, they are strong enough for older kids to use as well.
Pros
- Includes two stools.
- Dual-height design grows with your child.
- Thick non-slip rubber feet.
- BPA-free and PVC-free.
Cons
- Might be too bulky for very small powder rooms.
Our Ratings
Bumbo Step Stool
Best Toddler Step Stool for Toilet Training
When you are potty training, you need a stool that is stable but light enough for your toddler to move themselves. The Bumbo step stool is designed specifically for this phase. It mimics the shape of an elephant’s foot, offering a wide, stable base that resists tipping.
This is a one-step stool, standing about 6.5 inches high. That is the perfect height for helping a toddler get onto the toilet seat or reach a low bathroom sink.
We love the material; it features a slip-resistant surface that is soft on feet but grippy enough to prevent falls. Plus, it is incredibly lightweight. Your toddler can use it at the toilet, then pick it up and move it to the sink to wash their hands, fostering that all-important independence.
It holds up to 110 pounds, which is plenty for a toddler but lower than some other heavy-duty options on our list.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable.
- Wide, stable base mimics an elephant foot.
- Soft, non-slip grip.
- Easy to wipe clean.
Cons
- Only adds 6.5 inches of height.
Our Ratings
Handy Laundry Folding Step Stool
Best Foldable Step Stool
If you are tight on space, a bulky plastic stool is a nuisance. The Handy Laundry stool solves this by folding completely flat. You can slide it into the narrow gap between the vanity and the wall or tuck it under the sink when it’s not in use.
Despite being foldable, it feels surprisingly sturdy. It locks into place when opened and can hold an impressive amount of weight. The top surface features polka-dot rubber grips to keep little feet stable.
Weighing just over 2 pounds, it has a built-in carrying handle that appears when folded. This makes it a great option for travel or for grandparents who don’t want a permanent toddler fixture in their bathroom.
One note on safety: always ensure the stool is fully clicked open before your child steps on it to prevent it from folding during use.
Pros
- Folds flat for easy storage.
- Built-in carrying handle.
- Inexpensive.
- Anti-skid foot pads.
Cons
- Requires caution to ensure it is fully locked before use.
Our Ratings
Wood City Dual Height Step Stool
Best Dual-Height Step Stool
For parents who prefer natural materials over bright plastics, the Wood City stool is a beautiful choice. Made from natural birch wood, it is sturdy, heavy, and blends well with furniture in the kitchen or bedroom.
This is a two-step design. The top step is 13 inches high, providing significant reach for shorter toddlers. The bottom step is wide and deep, making the climb up easy and unintimidating.
Safety-wise, it includes non-slip pads for the bottom of the legs. The wood has a smooth, non-toxic finish that is safe for children and easy to wipe down. Unlike lightweight plastic stools, this one has enough weight that it won’t easily kick out from under a child.
Be prepared for some assembly; it comes flat-packed, but the result is a solid piece of furniture that lasts for years.
Pros
- Aesthetically pleasing wood finish.
- High 13-inch reach.
- Very stable and heavy.
- Rounded corners to prevent bumps.
Cons
- Assembly required.
Our Ratings
Guidecraft Kitchen Helper Tower Step-Up
Best Step Stool for the Kitchen
If your toddler loves to “help” cook, a standard stool can be nerve-wracking. One wrong step backward and they could fall. The Guidecraft Kitchen Helper is a “learning tower” that encloses your child on four sides, providing a safe cage so they can focus on the counter, not their balance.
This unit is adjustable. The platform can be set at 14 inches or 17 inches high, growing with your child. It fits flush against standard counters, letting your toddler work right alongside you safely.
We love that it folds up. Most learning towers are massive and permanently occupy kitchen space, but this one folds flat for storage. It also includes a non-slip mat and “keeper” nets for additional safety.
It is an investment, but for peace of mind while using sharp knives or hot pans nearby, it is unbeatable.
Pros
- Fully enclosed for maximum safety.
- Adjustable platform height.
- Folds away when not in use.
- Prevents falls backward or sideways.
Cons
- Large footprint when open.
Our Ratings
Nickelodeon Paw Patrol Step Stool
Best Step Stool for Boys
Sometimes, the best way to get a toddler excited about potty training is to involve their favorite characters. This Nickelodeon stool features bright, fun graphics from “Paw Patrol” that kids adore.
Beyond the branding, it is a solid utility stool. It features a contoured shape designed to nestle right up against the curve of a toilet base. This minimizes the gap between the stool and the toilet, making the climb safer.
It is built with thick, durable plastic that can hold up to 200 pounds. The top surface has a grippy texture to prevent slipping, and the feet are rubberized.
At just under 5 inches tall, it is on the shorter side. It works well for the toilet, but might not be high enough for a shorter toddler to reach the sink comfortably.
Pros
- Fun character design motivates kids.
- Contoured shape fits toilets perfectly.
- High weight capacity.
- Lightweight and portable.
Cons
- Shorter than other models (under 5 inches).
Our Ratings
Disney Minnie Mouse Step Stool
Best Step Stool for Girls
Similar to the Paw Patrol option, this Disney-themed stool uses the power of Minnie Mouse to encourage bathroom independence. The vibrant pink and purple colors make it an instant favorite for many toddlers.
Weighing only one pound, this is one of the lightest stools available. Your toddler will have no trouble dragging it around the bathroom. Despite the light weight, the structural design is strong, supporting up to 200 pounds.
It features the same contoured curve to fit snugly against the toilet. The non-slip rubber patches on top are shaped like hearts or bows, adding a nice detail to the grip.
Like other character stools, it is roughly 5 inches tall. It is excellent for potty access, but you might need a taller option for hand washing if your vanity is high.
Pros
- Cute Disney design.
- Extremely lightweight (1 lb).
- Fits close to the toilet base.
- Sturdy construction.
Cons
- Limited height boost.
Our Ratings
FAQs
What Is the Best Height for a Toddler Step Stool?
The best height is typically between 5 and 7 inches for a single step, which helps with toilet access. For reaching sinks or counters, a dual-step stool (10+ inches) or a learning tower is usually required.
Do Toddlers Need a Step Stool?
Yes, toddlers need a step stool to safely interact with a world built for adults. It fosters independence by allowing them to wash hands, use the toilet, and brush teeth without constant lifting from parents.
Are Step Stools Safe?
Step stools are safe if they have non-slip surfaces, rubberized feet, and are used on even floors. However, adult supervision is always recommended, especially in the kitchen or on wet bathroom tiles.
What Age Can a Toddler Use a Step Stool?
Most toddlers are ready for a step stool between 18 months and 2 years old. This coincides with when they become steady on their feet and start showing interest in potty training or washing their hands.
What Is the Difference Between a Step Stool and a Learning Tower?
A step stool is a simple, backless platform for quick tasks like hand washing. A learning tower is a fully enclosed stand with safety rails, designed for longer tasks like cooking or crafting at the counter.
