Best Bed Steps for the Elderly

Best Value
DMI Step Stool with Handle
  • Step is 9.5-inches high
  • Non-slip textured mat & rubber feet
  • Heavy-duty steel construction with wide legs
  • Holds up to 300 lbs
Top Pick
Step2Bed Bed Rails
  • Versatile height adjustments
  • Extra wide step stool for increased stability
  • Motion activated LED light
  • Supports up to 400lbs
Best 2-Handles
AdjustaStep(tm) DoubleSafe Deluxe Step Stool
  • Height and handle-adjustable
  • Two handrails with non-slip handgrip
  • Supports up to 300 lbs

Many elderly people experience a decline in mobility that makes simple actions like getting into bed or reaching a high shelf more challenging.

A bed step stool can make grabbing high-up items and getting in and out of bed easier, giving you more independence in your daily life.

There are several types of bed steps, ranging from highly portable, minimalist footstools to fully adjustable bed stairs with handrails.

Consider your level of mobility and the type of support you need when deciding which product to purchase. To help you, we’ve compiled this guide to the best bed steps for the elderly.

Best Bed Step Stools for Seniors: Our Picks

1. Best With Handrails: Step2Bed Bed Stool

Most Bells & Whistles
Step2Bed Bed Rails For Elderly with Adjustable Height Bed Step Stool & LED Light for Fall Prevention - Portable Medical Step Stool comes with Handicap Grab Bars making it easy to get in and out of bed

Step2Bed Bed Step Stool

Wide step bed stool with tons of extras

Adjustable extra-wide step stool featuring steel grab bars, a foam-padded handrail, and a motion-activated LED light

About: The Step2Bed Bed Stool is a high-end bed step stool that’s fully adjustable and comes with all the bells and whistles, offering maximum support, safety and convenience.

We’re voting this as the best bed step stool for seniors due to its ultra-wide base (making it super stable), LED motion-activated lights for improved visibility when it matters most, and it’s supportive and comfy hand rail!

Features and Specs

  • Adjustable height allows seniors to tailor the height for specific needs, whether using a high or low bed
  • Handrails with soft foam padding for a comfortable grip
  • Steel grab bars for extra stability
  • Extra-wide, non-slip step base for superior security 
  • Motion-activated LED light to guide seniors getting in and out of bed in the dark
  • Step Height can be adjusted between  2.5″-7.5″ 
  • 400 lbs weight limit
  • Assembly required

Pros

  • Enhanced safety features such as grab bars, an extra-wide step, and a motion-activated LED light set this product apart from the rest
  • Soft foam padding on handrails makes them easier to grab for seniors with arthritis
  • Larger weight capacity than most (400 lbs)

Cons

  • This is a large and relatively heavy (21 lbs) bedside step stool that may be difficult to maneuver around the home
  • Requires assembly, which might prove challenging for seniors with arthritis
  • Looks like a medical device; not very attractive

2. Best for High Beds: DMI Step Stool With Handle

Best for High Beds
DMI Step Stool with Handle and Non Skid Rubber Platform, Lightweight and Sturdy Stool for Seniors, Adults and Children, Holds up to 300 Pounds with 9.5 Inch Step Up, 17.3'D x 12.3'W x 34'H, Chrome

DMI Step Stool with Handle

Lightweight steel bed step with handle

A mid-range, lightweight bed step that includes a textured grip handle for added support

About: The DMI Step Stool is a lightweight bed step stool that comes with an optional handrail for added stability and convenience.

This is a great, mid-range product to help with climbing into a high bed or even an SUV!

Features and Specs:

  • Convenient handrail provides safety and stability
  • Anti-slip rubber feet and textured matting reduce the risk of falling
  • Chrome-plated steel frame for enhanced durability and stability
  • Step platform measures 10” (w) by 14.5” (l), with a platform height of 9.5”; handle height from floor is 34”; weight 8.5 lbs.
  • Weight limit of 300 lbs.
  • Requires some assembly

Pros

  • Compact, unobtrusive design
  • Lightweight
  • Can be used with or without handrail

Cons

  • Assembly required, which may be difficult for seniors with arthritis or other mobility issues
  • Lightweight design makes this bed stool easy to move around, but also results in less stability.
  • Not height adjustable

3. Best Adjustable Step Stool: AdjustaStepDoubleSafe Deluxe Step Stool

Best Adjustable Step Stool
AdjustaStep(tm) DoubleSafe Deluxe Step Stool/Footstool with Dual Handle/Handrail, Height Adjustable. Modern White/Blue Design. Padded Non-Slip Hand Grips

AdjustaStep DoubleSafe Deluxe Step Stool

Fully adjustable, dual-handle step stool

Durable metal stool with adjustable platform height and handle height for complete customization

About: The AdjustaStepDoubleSafe Deluxe Step Stool is a mid-range, completely height adjustable step stool that provides safe support at the exact height you need it. 

Features and Specs

  • Platform is height adjustable via three settings: 8.5″, 9.5″, and 10.5″
  • Features not one, but two handrails for extra support and stability; handrail height is adjustable from 31.5” to 33.5”
  • All-metal construction for enhanced durability, with white powder-coated finish that’s rust-resistant
  • Comes with non-slip handgrips, platform pad, and foot pads to prevent sliding 
  • Weight capacity of 300 lbs
  • Minimal assembly required

Pros

  • Easy to adjust the height as needed for different tasks
  • Only bedside step stool with two handrails
  • Legs and handrails easily snap into place; no tools required for assembly

Cons

  • Sticks out visually due to bright white handrails and blue platform; may clash with some home decor

4. Best Lightweight Step Stool: SATTIYRCH Folding Step Stool

Sattiyrch Step Stool for Adult,Portable Folding Metal Small One Step Stool with Non Slip Platform,Bed Foot Stool 6.8'(H),Max Load 330 lbs

SATTIYRCH Folding Step Stool

Ultra lightweight, basic portable step stool

Affordable bed stool with steel construction and anti-skid feed that can fold away when not in use

About: The SATTIYRCH Folding Step Stool is a budget-friendly bedside step stool that’s lightweight and very portable, making it easy to carry from room to room as needed.

Note that this is a bare-bones product without any kind of handle that may not meet the needs of seniors who require more support.

Features and Specs

  • Solid steel construction
  • Anti-slip rubber feet prevent skidding and sliding
  • Includes locks on each leg to add aditional stability 
  • Foldable, lightweight, and portable
  • Built-in handle for easy movement and relocation
  • Weighs 4 lbs and measures 14.8” by 10.23″ with a height of 6.8”
  • Can be expanded to a height of 18.1” or collapsed to a height of just 1.57” for easy storage
  • 330 lb capacity
  • No assembly required

Pros

  • Very portable with handle included and lightweight at just 4 lbs
  • Budget-friendly
  • Multifunctional—can be used as a bedside stool, a footrest, or to reach high cabinets.
  • Higher weight capacity than most bed stools at 330 lbs

Cons

  • Bare-bones product with no handrail; won’t work for seniors who need extra support.
  • Not height adjustable

5. Most Minimalist Step Stool: Powell Zach Bed Step

Best Minimalist bed steps
Powell Zach Bed Step, Espresso

Powell Zach Bed Step

Minimalist wooden bed steps with style

Simple bed steps for seniors who just need some extra height without requiring too much support

About: The Powell Zach Bed Step is ideal for seniors who need just a little assistance climbing in and out of bed or reaching high cabinets.

The Powell Zach Bed Step is a sleek, minimalist alternative to medical-grade bed stools. With a premium wooden design, it’s a perfect bed step stool for those who want a more subtle-looking boost into bed.

Features and Specs

  • Simple, wooden bed steps with an espresso finish
  • Two steps
  • Weight limit of 200 lbs
  • Weighs 16 lbs, height 13”, width 17”, length 21”
  • Steps are roughly 7” high each 
  • Assembly required

Pros

  • Practical and attractive, will complement your décor
  • Can be easily tucked out of the way

Cons

  • High price point without offering many safety features
  • No handrails
  • Not height adjustable

6. Most Stylish Bed Stairs: Design 59 Acacia Hardwood Bed Step

Most Stylish Bed Steps
Design 59 inc Acacia Hardwood Step Stool/Bed Steps/Plant Stand, NO Assembly Required

Design 59 Acacia Hardwood Bed Step

Stylish bed stairs made of hardwood and steel

Heavy-weight modern bed stairs with a focus on style, ideal for those who don’t need extra support

About: The Design 59 Acacia Hardwood Step Stool is a high-end bed footstool that’s a great choice for seniors with an eye for style and who don’t need a lot of extra support. 

This is another great option for seniors who don’t want a piece of medical-looking equipment in their bedroom and would prefer a more discreet bed step stool design.

Features and Specs

  • Features a simple, two-step design
  • Made from hardwood and professionally welded steel
  • Not adjustable
  • Dimensions: 18″ wide x 16″ deep x 15″ high; product weight 20 lbs
  • Steps are 7.5” high each
  • No assembly required
  • Weight limit not stated

Pros

  • Attractive bed stairs that can double as a stylish focal point in your home’s décor
  • Beautiful craftsmanship; made from high-quality materials
  • Comes fully assembled

Cons

  • No handrails; not a good choice for seniors who need more stability

7. Best Foldable Bed Footstool: Handy Laundry Folding Step Stool

Best Foldable Bed Footstool
Handy Laundry Folding Step Stool, The Lightweight Step Stool, Sturdy Enough to Support Adults & Safe Enough for Kids, Opens Easy with One Flip, for Kitchen, Bathroom, Bedroom (Black)

Handy Laundry Folding Step Stool

A budget step stool for basic needs

Ultra-affordable, lightweight step stool that can be collapsed easily when not in use

About: The Handy Laundry Folding Step Stool is a basic folding step stool that’s an affordable, convenient option for seniors who don’t need much stability or extra support.  

This item can function as a foldable bed step stool, as well as play double-duty by being used in the kitchen or any other area of the house where one might need a leg up, as it’s lightweight and super portable.

Features and Specs

  • Fully foldable and collapsible plastic footstool 
  • Anti-skid foot pads to improve stability
  • Perfect for reaching hard-to-reach spaces in the kitchen, closet, laundry room or bedroom
  • Height of 9” when expanded; product weighs 2.3 lbs
  • Maximum weight capacity of 200 lbs
  • No assembly required

Pros

  • Extremely portable and lightweight 
  • Can be conveniently folded up and tucked away when not in use
  • Very affordable

Cons

  • Doesn’t offer much support; not safe for seniors who need more assistance
  • Lower weight capacity than many other bedside steps
  • Not height adjustable

8. Best Wooden Step Stool: Frenchi Home Furnishing Step Stool

Best Wooden Bed Step Stool

Frenchi Home Furnishing Step Stool

Elegant wooden two-step bed stool

Seventeen inch wooden step stool with a classic aesthetic

About: The Frenchi Home Furnishing Step Stool is an elegant and affordable two-step wooden bed stool with a vintage aesthetic. There are no handrails, so it’s best for seniors who have good mobility and just need a little extra support.

Features and Specs

  • Wood construction with molded detailing and a beautiful finish
  • Two step design
  • Weight capacity of 150 lbs
  • Product dimensions: 17.3 x 17.1 x 6.1 inches; weight 9.15 lbs
  • Assembly required
  • Also available in dark cherry and white coloring

Pros

  • Elegant, vintage design that will complement any style of décor
  • Can be easily moved aside when not in use
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Bare-bones product without handrails that may not offer enough support for seniors with more significant mobility issues
  • Bare wood steps are slippery, individuals may want to consider adding anti-slip grips for additional support.

Choosing the Best Bedside Step Stool for Your Needs

As you can see, there are many different bed step stools to choose from with varying levels of support, bed safety features, style, and affordability.

Here are some of the key factors to consider when deciding which bedside step stool would best suit your needs and preferences.

Handrails & Padding

Bed stairs that come with a handrail can offer an extra layer of support and balance to help seniors get in and out of bed easier. 

However, the handrail must be used safely. In some cases, the handrail can be hazardous if you put too much weight on it, causing the bed stool to tip. Ideally, handrails should only be used to provide extra balance, not for complete support. 

In addition, seniors with arthritis should look for a bed stool that has handrails with foam padding, as this will make the handrails easier to grip.

Make sure you note how much weight the bed step stool can hold and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use the handrail.

For seniors with good mobility and balance who are just looking for a basic bed footstool, a handrail may not be necessary. Some seniors also may already have bed rails installed for additional bed safety, which may eliminate the need for a bed step handrail.

Portability

Some bed steps are much more portable than others.

Think about your daily routine and how you intend to use the bed stool. Will you be primarily using it to climb in and out of bed? If the bed step stool will remain in the same room most of the time, then portability may not be a big priority.

However, if you’d like to be able to move the bed step stool from room to room as you go about your day, you’ll be better off with a lightweight, portable product.

For example, you can use a portable bed stool to get out of bed in the morning and then easily move it into the kitchen to reach a high cabinet (reachers and grabbers are great for this too).

Alternatively, you could purchase multiple heavy, more durable steps and keep them permanently in various rooms where they are required.

Adjustability

Some bedside step stools can be easily adjusted, allowing you to change the height as needed, while others are not height adjustable.

Again, think about which tasks or activities you’ll be using the bed stool for. 

You may need a higher bed stool to climb into your bed than you do to access the bath. Rather than buying two different bed stools, a single adjustable bed stool can allow you to do both things safely and conveniently. 

Also consider if you plan on lowering or raising your existing bed to make it taller in the future, and make sure the bed steps you purchase will be able to adjust to what you imagine the new bed height will be.

Size

Should you choose a sleek, compact bedside footstool or a bed step with a large platform? This depends on how much support and stability you need.

Seniors who are fairly steady on their feet may do just fine with a more compact bed stool.

One advantage of a compact bed step stool—particularly one that folds up—is that you can easily move it out of sight when not in use.

For seniors who need more support, bed step stools with larger platforms and handrails would be safer.

Also consider what other bedroom safety products you have. For example, if you have an overbed table, you’ll want to consider where the legs and wheels are positioned in relation to the bed steps.

Make sure there is enough space for all your essential bedroom care devices.

Foldability

Some half steps can fold up very compactly, making it easy to store them under the bed or in a closet when not in use. If you don’t intend to use your bed step stool that frequently, it might be worth looking for one that can fold or collapse.

On the flip side, if you will be using your bed stool every day or multiple times a day, then being able to fold it up and stow it away shouldn’t be a high priority.

Aesthetics & Design

Of course, the safety features and type of support you need should be the top priorities when looking for the best bed step stool for seniors—but aesthetics matter too. For seniors who need less support, a stylish wooden bed step may complement and even enhance their home’s décor. 

And even among the more high-end bed steps with handrails and other safety features, there some products have a sleeker design than others. 

Materials & Construction

Look for a bed stool made from a high-quality, durable material.

Stainless steel is a great option because it’s extremely durable and also easy to clean, which is important if you’ll be using it in the bathroom or kitchen. 

For seniors who aren’t as steady on their feet, look for a bed step stool with a rubber platform to prevent slipping. Bed step stools made of wood are attractive, but can be a fall hazard as they tend to be more slippery. 

Budget

What is your budget for a bedside step stool? You can expect to spend from as little as $10 at the low end to over $100 on a bed stool depending on your needs, preferences and budget. 

Footstools for beds on the low end tend to be more bare-bones, while products on the higher end offer more bells and whistles. You can certainly find a high-quality bed step stool that offers the type of support you need without breaking the bank.

Best Bed Step Stool for Seniors: Our Recommendation

Our overall top pick is the Step2Bed Bed Rail because it offers the best combination of support, safety features and convenience.

It’s the only bed step stool that comes with a motion-activated LED light for safe use in the dark. For seniors who need an adjustable bed step stool with excellent stability and easy-to-grab handrails, you can’t go wrong with this product.

The DMI Step Stool With Handle is a close runner up because it’s affordable, versatile and offers great support and stability. This sturdy step stool comes with an optional handrail with a foam handle grip.


Bed step stools can allow seniors to go about their daily routine with more independence, as they won’t have to rely on other people for help getting into bed or reaching items on a high shelf.

Just be sure to consider what type of features you need your bed stool to have to ensure you are able to use it safely and conveniently.

Last update on 2022-01-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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