Lifewit Folding Ladder Review

We purchased the Lifewit Folding Ladder so our expert reviewer could put it to the test at her home. Keep reading for our full product review.

If you’re a homeowner with windows to clean, cobwebs to clear, and branches to trim, you’re likely in need of a sturdy, reliable ladder. But storing a ladder or porting it around presents its own set of challenges. That’s where models like Lifewit's Folding Ladder come in. 

The 12.5-foot multipurpose tool adjusts into seven different positions and folds away for compact storage. But does the versatile ladder stand up in the quality department? And how seamless is it to transition between modes? I put it to the test to see if it could get household jobs done with ease.

Design: Transformative

This ladder is a true wonder of ingenuity—like the pocketknife of ladders. Though seemingly simple, it easily transforms into several different styles: a step ladder, an A-frame ladder, a straight extension ladder (measuring 12.5 feet tall), a stand-off ladder, and a scaffold ladder (complete with a platform to stand on). It can also be used as a makeshift closet when formed into an inverted U, with the two shorter sides holding up the length in the center, from which clothes can be hung. 

It’s hard to think of another ladder shape one might need that this one doesn't fulfill. I had to trim some bushes that were threatening to take over a path from one part of our backyard to another. Using the inverted Y shape on the sloping path, I was able to easily and safely reach the tallest branches. 

My son and I set the ladder up in the inverted U scaffolding shape and stood on it to pick plums, wash windows, and clean the molding at the ceiling level. 

Safety: Sturdy construction and safety locks  

Constructed of aluminum alloy, this ladder weighs under 20 pounds and is therefore manageable for solo use. However, it still feels sturdy, with a thicker frame than some competitors.

No tools are needed to set up or adjust this ladder. It took me about five to ten minutes to get the hang of it, but once it clicked, it became second nature to me. 

Multi-position operating hinges adjust using simple levers. Automatic safety locks snap into place and feel very secure. The ladder also features stabilizer bars with grippy, protective rubber pads for anti-slip protection.  

It’s important to use the ladder on a flat surface, and this includes when folding the ladder. I used mine on hardwood floors as well as on a flat area of the lawn, and in both environments, the ladder felt very secure. For optimal stability, keep the angle of the ladder under 75 degrees. Additionally, don’t use the scaffolding position without using the included scaffolding plates.

Maintenance: Easy

One of the best parts about this ladder is that it collapses down into a compact size for storage. At .9 x 1.22 x 3.3 feet, It can fit easily into a closet or the trunk of a car, making it quite portable as well.

A few miscellaneous pieces (the scaffolding plates for the scaffolding function) need to be stacked on top. This is the only drawback, as I worry the stray parts might get separated from the ladder pieces. 

Ladders don’t require much cleaning, and this aluminum model is no exception. It wipes down easily with a damp cloth and is rust-proof, so there is no worry about getting it wet, though it’s probably wisest to store in a protected area.

Price: Good

This Lifewit ladder retails for around $100. Considering all the forms it can take, this is a great price. There are lots of 12-foot ladders that retail for around the same price or more, so this ladder offers much more bang for your buck. However, there are some similar products available for slightly less, one of which I compare and contrast below.

Lifewit Folding Ladder vs. Cosco World’s Greatest Multi-Position Ladder 

These ladders both convert into a variety of useful positions, making them convenient multi-taskers. Both are easy and safe to use. The main differences are that the Cosco model is 21 feet versus 12 feet for the Lifewit ladder, making the choice easy depending on your personal ladder height needs. The Cosco ladder is also more expensive at $215 rather than $100 for the Lifewit model.