The multi-purpose ladder offers the ultimate in versatility. Not to be confused with a combination ladder (which are similar in some respects but are not normally used with platforms), the multi purpose ladder has, as the name suggests, a multitude of purposes. These versatile and hard working ladders can be used as straight ladders, step ladders, staircase ladders, work platforms, staircase platforms, all with a range of working positions in between. Once described as “the Optimus Prime of ladders”, multi-purpose ladders really are like something from Transformers.

Homeowners with a flair for DIY and enough space to store one of these ladders should seriously consider replacing their existing ladders with one of these beauties. The Little Giant Select Step is the perfect example of a multi purpose, adaptable ladder that can be safely and comfortably used by both experienced DIYers and people who just need to change a light bulb. Multi-function ladders are the perfect tool for outdoor work, such as window cleaning and guttering work (as this work requires a sturdy, straight ladder), for painting and decorating (as these jobs require both platforms, step ladders and staircase ladders, and for a whole host of other DIY related tasks, such as a workbench, sawing horse and all important impromptu coffee table for those hard earned breaks!

Multi Ladders are Fun Ladders!

For those with children, this type of ladder serves as a makeshift climbing frame (always under adult supervision), the basis for a blanket fort or an outdoors den, as well as the frame for a beanbag throwing game and an impromptu bench. There isn’t a lot these ladders can’t be adapted for, making them the obvious choice for anyone looking to purchase their first ladder, but unsure about what sort of ladder they need and also for those looking to replace and downsize their existing set of ladders.

As mentioned before, the Little Giant Select Step is a very versatile ladder. Although it is marketed as a step ladder (and in the most simple configuration, it is a step ladder), it actually has all the functionality of other multi purpose ladders, including those marketed specifically as multi-purpose ladders. This ladder is very well built and has extra wide bases on either side to provide extra stability on the ground when used as a step ladder or staircase ladder. The extra wide, deep and serrated treads provide extra safety when the ladder is in use and the easy-to-use locking mechanisms ensure that the configuration is held in place securely at all times. It can take a little getting used to, because there are so many ways this multi-purpose ladder can be set up, but once you know your way around the ladder, there is almost nothing this bit of kit can’t do.

This multi purpose ladder can be used as a 5,6,7 or 8 tread step ladder, a work platform between 80 cm and 1.6 metres and a staircase ladder of just under 1.5 metres, which is enough for painting most stairwells. The extra features that might appeal to the DIY enthusiast are the integrated tool tray, optional paint tray, ‘Tip & Glide’ wheels (making it easy to get this ladder from one job to the next) and extra handrail. There are many other Little Giant accessories on the market, so adding to the specification of this ladder is not hard. At just £195, the Little Giant Select Step is a bargain for the discerning homeowner. Midland Ladders are the only distributor to offer the tool tray and handrail extras as standard with each order, making this a deal you can’t really ignore.

Multiladder Accessories

Some of the accessories that Little Giant make for their multi purpose ladders include paint holders, which is a roller tray that clips onto the ladder, work platforms that clip to one rung to provide a larger standing area for long jobs, extra ‘Tip & Glide’ wheel kits, a ladder stand-off, locking bracket for storage, leg levellers, and even a telescopic work plank that offers a maximum length of 9 feet. All these extras increase the functionality of the multi-purpose ladder when used in the many configurations and maximise the potential of this system.

Little Giant also make another multi purpose ladder, which is similar in style to their Select Step. The Classic series is the original Little Giant ladder and the Professional model is the bad boy of the ladder world. Finished in black and with red accents, this truly multi-purpose ladder is rated EN131 (trade standard) and can be used in 24 different configurations including A frame step ladder, staircase ladder, extension/straight ladder, work platform (multi height) and 90 degree ladder. This is not really aimed at the novice/DIY market, as the extended functionality could be a little bewildering for the inexperienced. This multi purpose ladder is aimed at people who spend a lot of time working with ladders and who need the most flexible system available for more at daily, frequent use. The space saving implications of using a multi-purpose ladder such as this one are massive, as only one ladder needs to be brought to each job, as it will adapt to any situation. (The Little Giant Professional model is available for £215)

Traditional Multi Purpose Ladders

The hinged, four section construction of the traditional multi purpose ladder allows it to be used as a straight ladder of different lengths, a step ladder, staircase ladder, staircase work platform (especially helpful for painting stairwells and the ceiling above), work platform and on surfaces of different heights. Because the multipurpose ladder is designed for use in different positions and each section of the ladder may be put under stress from different directions, they are constructed from very sturdy aluminium, making them feel very safe and stable when in use. This can make them seem heavy. The only other possible down-sides of the construction of hinged multi-purpose ladders is that the space needed the configure them indoors can present a problem in small homes and those with a lot of furniture. For a more traditional multi-purpose ladder, Midland Ladders have two size options, a 4×4 rung-per-section or 4×3 rung-per-section model. The price difference is only £4 between the two models, but there is a much larger difference between the sizes and features of these two multi purpose ladders.

The shorter of the two options comes with a free anti-slip work platform which clips into the ladder when it is set up as a platform base, which is just one of the ten locking positions this multi purpose ladder can be used in. As a work platform, it is three feet tall, and just less than five feet long, which is a decent sized working area. Double locking hinges plus the wide stabilising bars at either end of the ladder provide extra safety and it is certified to EN131, taking a load of 150 kilos. The ladder itself weighs just 12 kilos and is small enough to fit in the boot of a car (94cm tall and 70cm wide). The full height of the ladder is 3.4 metres and as a step ladder provides a maximum height of 1.7 metres. For £75 this is a great bargain, especially considering the value of the free platform unit.

The four rung-per-section model comes with a free work shelf as an added bonus, so with both these folding multi-purpose ladders there is a great deal to be had. Also boasting the same safety features and certification as the shorter model, this multi purpose ladder is a little larger when it comes to storage. It is 125cm tall and 70cm wide, but will still fit in a car boot although it weighs two kilos more than the shorter one. The taller model has a full height of 4.5 metres and a step ladder height of 2.25 metres, but this multi purpose ladder has 6 locking positions, less than the shorter model. The taller model is a great buy if space and versatility are not the main criteria, but the maximum height is needed. However, for functionality, the cheaper, three rung-per-section multi-purpose ladder is an unbeatable choice, especially as it comes with the work platform unit needed to maximise the true potential of the multi purpose ladder.

Multi purpose ladders are excellent value for money, provide many uses for the price and can often totally replace a set of ladders for far less money and space. They are easy to store and transport, sturdy and easy to use safely, due to the locking mechanisms present in each model. With a range of prices and functionality, there is a multi-purpose ladder out there for everyone.