In short: for wall cabinets, wardrobes and shelves up to about 2.4 m a 2-step ladder is enough; for a standard 2.7 m ceiling you need 3 steps; for chandeliers, mezzanines and light maintenance jobs, 4 steps. Load capacity means the weight of the person climbing plus whatever they carry. EN 14183 certification guarantees that stability and strength have been verified with load tests by an independent body.
How many steps do I need for the height I have to reach?
The number to look at is not the height of the ladder but the working height: how far you can reach with your hands while standing on the top usable step, with your arms at chest height and not above your head. For a person of average height it is roughly the step height plus 1.9 m.
| Steps | Working height | What for |
|---|---|---|
| 2 steps | about 2.46 m | wall cabinets, wardrobes, household shelves |
| 3 steps | about 2.70 m | standard ceilings, high shelves, curtains |
| 4 steps | about 2.93 m | chandeliers, mezzanines, light maintenance |
These values are those of the HYTAMA BLACK MAX and WHITE MAX step ladders, with steps spaced 23 cm apart. If you are torn between two sizes, take the taller one: working with your arms stretched above your head is tiring and less safe.
Load capacity: is 150 kg enough?
Load capacity is the maximum weight allowed on the ladder: the person climbing plus the tools or objects they are holding. For any household use, 150 kg is more than enough. The BLACK MAX and WHITE MAX ladders have a certified load capacity of 150 kg and have been tested up to 250 kg; the compact BLACK MINI series is tested up to 150 kg. The certified load must never be exceeded: the tested load only indicates the safety margin of the structure.
What EN 14183 means and why it matters
EN 14183 is the European standard for step stools for domestic and professional use. It sets requirements for stability, strength of the steps and the frame, minimum standing surface dimensions and load tests. A compliant ladder declares that it meets them; a TÜV EN 14183 certified ladder has had them verified by a third party, in the case of HYTAMA models TÜV Rheinland. In practice: steps that do not flex, feet that do not slip, a frame that does not twist under load.
Steel or aluminium?
Steel: stiffer and cheaper for the same load capacity, weighs a little more; ideal if the ladder stays at home. BLACK MAX and WHITE MAX have a painted steel frame with 25 mm diameter tubing, non-slip polyethylene steps and an EVA handle. Aluminium: lighter and does not rust; handy if you move it often. ALUSTAR combines aluminium and steel in a hybrid structure with extra-large 33×26 cm steps, 150 kg load capacity and EN 14183 TÜV-GS certification.
The 5 things to check before buying
- Wide, non-slip steps: your whole foot must rest on them.
- Handle at the top: gives you something to hold as you climb and is also useful for moving the ladder.
- Non-slip feet: rubber, on all four supports.
- Open footprint: BLACK MAX 2 steps 80×55×50 cm, 3 steps 105×55×66 cm, 4 steps 154×58.5×82 cm. When closed it folds flat.
- Certification printed on the label: standard, load capacity and certifying body must be legible on the product, not just on the web page.
Which HYTAMA step ladder to choose
- BLACK MAX 3 steps: the standard choice for the home, steel, 150 kg, working height about 2.70 m. Also available with 2 steps and 4 steps.
- WHITE MAX: same structure in a white finish, for kitchens and bright rooms.
- BLACK MINI: compact, rubberised steps and support bar, for those short on space.
- BLACK MAX PLUS: with a tool tray at the top, for maintenance and DIY.
- ALUSTAR: aluminium and steel, 33×26 cm steps, 150 kg, for those who move it often.
The full range: HYTAMA step ladders and step stools.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between certified and tested load capacity?
The certified load capacity (150 kg) is the guaranteed limit for use. The tested load capacity (250 kg) is the load reached in testing without failure, i.e. the safety margin of the structure. Always use the ladder within the certified load capacity.
Can I use the step ladder outdoors?
Yes, for short jobs on a flat, dry and stable surface. It should not be left outside: moisture and sun damage the paint and the steps. Store it indoors, folded and flat.
How much space does it take up when folded?
HYTAMA folding step ladders fold flat and fit behind a door, next to the fridge or in a storage cupboard.
How many steps do I need to change a light bulb at 2.7 m?
Three: with a working height of about 2.70 m you reach the ceiling without stretching. With two steps you reach 2.46 m, enough for wall cabinets and wardrobes but not for the ceiling.
