How to Store a Step Ladder in Your Garage

Properly store your step ladder so it remains in good shape.

A step ladder has many applications in your home. You can use it for something as simple as changing a light bulb or as intricate as climbing onto your roof. If you don’t take care of your step ladder, however, it can break and lead to a serious injury. Proper maintenance of your step ladder starts with storage. Take the time to properly store your step ladder instead of sitting it in just any old corner of your garage.

Things You'll Need

• Cloth
• Hooks
• Bungee cord

Instructions

1. Locate a clean, spacious location in your garage where you can store your ladder. It should also be close to a wall so you can secure your ladder to it.

2. Clean your step ladder of any dirt or moisture before you store it. Simply run a thick, absorbent cloth over the surfaces of the step ladder to clean it.

3. Fold the step ladder closed. The folding instructions will vary depending on the model of stepladder you have. Follow the folding instructions found either on the ladder or in the owner’s manual included with the ladder.

4. Screw some hooks into the wall where you will store the ladder. They should be on either side of where the ladder will rest against the wall.

5. Hold the step ladder against the wall between the hooks. Attach a bungee cord to the hooks and wire them across the face of the ladder. This will prevent it from falling open if you accidentally bump into it.

6. Check your step ladder regularly for any moisture or dirt. Unfortunately, your garage is not always as clean and leak proof as you home. Finding these little messes early will help keep your ladder in the best working condition.

7. Take down your ladder once every three months and open it to make sure it still works. The joints of the ladder benefit from the movement.

Tips & Warnings

• You may need an extra set of hands to help you if you are working with a step ladder over 6 feet in height.

• If the step ladder is taller than the ceiling of your garage, lay it on its side when you store it in the garage.