I bought the ladder so that I can safely reach the upper shelf and cabinets. It has wide steps to support my feet. It has an easy to reach shelf for a paint can, a hammer or small screws. I weigh over 300 pounds and feel completely safe and supported on this ladder. It is lightweight and easy to fold. As a 70 year old, I was able to assemble it on my own. When it was splattered with paint, it was easy to clean up. So now it looks like new.