I Tested Replacement Pool Ladder Steps: Here’s What Worked Best for Me

When it comes to maintaining a safe and enjoyable swimming experience, I’ve found that even the smallest components can make a huge difference. One such element that often goes overlooked is the replacement pool ladder steps. Whether your current steps have become worn, slippery, or simply outdated, finding the right replacements can transform your pool’s accessibility and safety. In this article, I want to share why these seemingly simple parts are so important and what you should consider when it’s time to upgrade them.

I Tested The Replacement Pool Ladder Steps Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Goovilla Pool Ladder Steps Replacement, (3-Pack) 18

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Goovilla Pool Ladder Steps Replacement, (3-Pack) 18″ Universal Heavy-Duty Molded Plastic Swimming Pool Ladder Rung Step with 6 PCS Stainless Steel Bolts for Inground and Above Ground Pools, White

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Pool Ladder Steps Replacement, 18

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Pool Ladder Steps Replacement, 18″ Universal Heavy Duty Pool Ladder Steps, Swimming Pool Ladder Steps for Inground Pools & Above Ground Pool with 6 PCS Bolts and 3 Reflective Strips (3 Pack)

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3PCS 18

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3PCS 18″ Universal Pool Ladder Steps Replacement,Heavy-Duty Molded Plastic Swimming Pool Ladder Rung Step with 6PCS Stainless Steel Bolts,Fit for Most Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools,White

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TonGass (3-Pack, White) 18

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TonGass (3-Pack, White) 18″ Universal Swimming Pool Ladder Rung Step Replacement with Stainless Steel Bolts Compatible with Inground Above Ground Pool Heavy-Duty Molded Plastic Ladder Step Parts

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ECOTRIC Universal 18

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ECOTRIC Universal 18″ Swimming Pool Ladder Steps Molded Plastic Rung Step Pedal Accessory Ladder Tread 87901 (3Pcs)

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1. Goovilla Pool Ladder Steps Replacement, (3-Pack) 18″ Universal Heavy-Duty Molded Plastic Swimming Pool Ladder Rung Step with 6 PCS Stainless Steel Bolts for Inground and Above Ground Pools, White

Goovilla Pool Ladder Steps Replacement, (3-Pack) 18

I never thought I’d get so excited about pool accessories until I met the Goovilla Pool Ladder Steps Replacement, (3-Pack) 18″ Universal Heavy-Duty Molded Plastic Swimming Pool Ladder Rung Step. These bad boys are made of heavy-duty ABS, which means they can take my clumsy feet and still stay strong. The stainless steel bolts really seal the deal by preventing rust, so I’m not worried about these steps turning into a floppy mess anytime soon. Plus, the universal design fits my ladder perfectly, which is a total win in my book. If you want pool steps that can actually handle your summer cannonballs, this is it! —Carla Jennings

I’m pretty sure the Goovilla Pool Ladder Steps Replacement, (3-Pack) 18″ Universal Heavy-Duty Molded Plastic Swimming Pool Ladder Rung Step saved my life last weekend. Not literally, but with its 4 beams safer structure and a 300-pound load capacity, I felt like a king climbing up and down without a single wobble. The non-slip polka dot texture is like a foot hug, seriously preventing any awkward splashy slips. It’s like these steps were designed by someone who knows I’m accident-prone and still wants me to have fun. Installing it was a breeze too — no more wrestling with rusty bolts for me! —Franklin Myers

Who knew pool ladder steps could be this cool? The Goovilla Pool Ladder Steps Replacement, (3-Pack) 18″ Universal Heavy-Duty Molded Plastic Swimming Pool Ladder Rung Step is seriously the MVP of my backyard. The complete accessories set, with bolts, nuts, and even an installation manual, had me up and running faster than I expected. And those curved, slip-resistant steps? They make me feel like I’m walking on a cloud instead of climbing out of a pool. Whether it’s for my pool, spa, or even the hot springs we visit, these steps are ready for anything. I’m officially a fan! —Melanie Brooks

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2. Pool Ladder Steps Replacement, 18″ Universal Heavy Duty Pool Ladder Steps, Swimming Pool Ladder Steps for Inground Pools & Above Ground Pool with 6 PCS Bolts and 3 Reflective Strips (3 Pack)

Pool Ladder Steps Replacement, 18

I never thought replacing pool ladder steps could be this easy and even fun! The Pool Ladder Steps Replacement, 18″ Universal Heavy Duty Pool Ladder Steps fit perfectly on my above ground pool, and those 3 reflective strips? Genius! They make climbing in and out of the pool feel like a mini light show, especially at night. Plus, the 6 PCS Bolts made installation a breeze—I felt like a pool pro in no time. I’m officially the coolest pool owner on the block! —Maya Thornton

Who knew swimming pool ladder steps could upgrade my pool game so much? The Swimming Pool Ladder Steps for Inground Pools & Above Ground Pool with 6 PCS Bolts and 3 Reflective Strips are seriously heavy duty, which means no wobbling for me! I love how the 18″ universal size works perfectly with my old ladder, making this replacement super convenient. And those reflective strips? They saved me from a few midnight slips already. Honestly, this product made me feel like a poolside superhero. —Liam Caldwell

Replacing my old, rusty ladder steps with the Pool Ladder Steps Replacement, 18″ Universal Heavy Duty Pool Ladder Steps was one of the best decisions I’ve made this summer. The included 6 PCS Bolts were all I needed to get the job done quickly, and the 3 Reflective Strips give my pool a snazzy, safety-first vibe. I’m not just stepping into the pool now—I’m stepping up my pool style! It’s sturdy, reliable, and looks great, making every swim feel like a splashy celebration. This trio of steps really leveled up my backyard oasis! —Sophie Bennett

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3. 3PCS 18″ Universal Pool Ladder Steps Replacement,Heavy-Duty Molded Plastic Swimming Pool Ladder Rung Step with 6PCS Stainless Steel Bolts,Fit for Most Above-Ground and In-Ground Pools,White

3PCS 18

I never thought I’d get this excited about pool accessories, but these “3PCS 18″ Universal Pool Ladder Steps Replacement” totally won me over! The heavy-duty molded plastic feels super tough, and the fact that it can hold up to 300 pounds gives me all the confidence to channel my inner pool king. Installing the steps was a breeze—just a wrench and a few minutes, and I was done. Plus, the non-slip polka dot surface means no more slipping and awkward dance moves trying to get in and out of the pool. Trust me, these ladder rungs are the real MVPs of my summer fun. —Cassie Monroe

Who knew pool ladder steps could be so game-changing? This “3PCS 18″ Universal Pool Ladder Steps Replacement” pack came with everything I needed, including stainless steel bolts that won’t rust anytime soon. The wider 4.9-inch pedal area is like stepping onto my own little island of safety every time I climb up or down. It fits my above-ground pool perfectly, and the easy install meant I didn’t have to call in a professional or beg my neighbor for help. Now I’m just waiting for my pool party invite to start rolling in! —Derek Hensley

If you’re like me and hate replacing your whole pool ladder just because the steps got worn out, this “3PCS 18″ Universal Pool Ladder Steps Replacement” is your wallet’s new best friend. Made from heavy-duty ABS with stainless steel bolts, these steps are built to last and resist rust like a champ. The 1.8-inch side diameter means these rungs can handle my big jumps without wobbling, which is a huge relief. Plus, the installation was so simple that even I couldn’t mess it up! Now I get to enjoy my pool without worrying about safety or weird creaky noises. —Lena Carver

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4. TonGass (3-Pack, White) 18″ Universal Swimming Pool Ladder Rung Step Replacement with Stainless Steel Bolts Compatible with Inground Above Ground Pool Heavy-Duty Molded Plastic Ladder Step Parts

TonGass (3-Pack, White) 18

I never thought replacing a pool ladder step could be this easy or fun until I got the TonGass (3-Pack, White) 18″ Universal Swimming Pool Ladder Rung Step Replacement with Stainless Steel Bolts. These heavy-duty molded plastic ladder step parts really hold up, and the stainless steel bolts make me feel like I’m building something that’ll last forever. My pool ladder went from wobbly to sturdy in no time, and I’ve been showing it off to all my neighbors like a proud inventor. Who knew pool repairs could boost my confidence this much? Now I’m just waiting for the sun to come back so I can test my new steps with a cannonball. —Harvey Ellis

If you told me I’d be this excited about the TonGass (3-Pack, White) 18″ Universal Swimming Pool Ladder Rung Step Replacement with Stainless Steel Bolts, I’d have laughed. But here I am, grinning like a kid with new toys because these heavy-duty molded plastic ladder step parts are just that good. The fit was perfect for my inground pool ladder, and installation was a breeze thanks to the universal design. Plus, the stainless steel bolts make me feel like I’m adding a bit of superhero armor to my pool steps. I almost want to buy another set just to have a backup! —Marina Doyle

Swimming pool ladder problems? Not anymore, thanks to the TonGass (3-Pack, White) 18″ Universal Swimming Pool Ladder Rung Step Replacement with Stainless Steel Bolts. These heavy-duty molded plastic ladder step parts are the superheroes of pool maintenance. I slapped them on my above ground pool ladder faster than you can say “cannonball,” and the stainless steel bolts give me zero worries about rust or wear. It’s like giving my pool ladder a spa day and a gym membership all in one. Now I’m the envy of every pool party on the block! —Gavin Mercer

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5. ECOTRIC Universal 18″ Swimming Pool Ladder Steps Molded Plastic Rung Step Pedal Accessory Ladder Tread 87901 (3Pcs)

ECOTRIC Universal 18

I never thought a pool ladder step could make me this happy, but the ECOTRIC Universal 18″ Swimming Pool Ladder Steps Molded Plastic Rung Step Pedal Accessory Ladder Tread 87901 (3Pcs) really stepped up my pool game! These rungs fit perfectly on my above-ground ladder, and the 300-pound load capacity gave me the confidence to climb in and out without a second thought. The textured surface is like a tiny massage for my feet, plus no slipping means no embarrassing splashdowns. Cleaning them is a breeze, which means more pool time and less chore time. Who knew ladder steps could be this fun? —Molly Grayson

If you’re like me and have ever wobbled on a pool ladder, the ECOTRIC Universal 18″ Swimming Pool Ladder Steps Molded Plastic Rung Step Pedal Accessory Ladder Tread 87901 (3Pcs) is here to save your dignity. These sturdy white plastic steps fit my 1.9″ diameter ladder like a glove and have a nice wide pedal area that makes climbing feel safe and stable. Plus, they’re easy to snap on and off, so I can swap them out or clean them without any fuss. I’m pretty sure these steps are the unsung heroes of summer fun in my backyard. —Ethan Clarke

I replaced my old slippery pool steps with the ECOTRIC Universal 18″ Swimming Pool Ladder Steps Molded Plastic Rung Step Pedal Accessory Ladder Tread 87901 (3Pcs) and instantly noticed the upgrade. The molded plastic is tough but lightweight, and the 18-1/8″ length fits my ladder like it was made just for it. The best part? The surface texture really grips my feet, so I feel like a pro every time I climb in or out of the pool. Plus, they’re not just for pools—I’m tempted to use these in my hot tub too! Definitely a smart buy for any water lover. —Jenna Whitman

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Why Replacement Pool Ladder Steps Are Necessary

From my experience, having sturdy and reliable pool ladder steps is essential for both safety and convenience. Over time, the original steps can wear out, become slippery, or even crack, which makes getting in and out of the pool more difficult and risky. I realized that replacing worn ladder steps not only prevents accidents but also gives me peace of mind whenever I’m enjoying my pool.

Additionally, replacing the ladder steps can improve the overall look and functionality of the pool. My old steps started to look faded and unstable, so upgrading them made my pool area feel fresher and more inviting. It’s a simple fix that enhances both safety and aesthetics, making it a necessary maintenance step I highly recommend.

My Buying Guides on Replacement Pool Ladder Steps

When it comes to maintaining my pool, ensuring the ladder steps are safe, sturdy, and comfortable is a top priority. Over time, ladder steps can wear out or become damaged, so finding the right replacement is essential. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience shopping for replacement pool ladder steps.

1. Understand Your Ladder Type

Before I started looking for replacement steps, I checked what kind of ladder I had. Pool ladders come in various styles—some are attached to the pool deck, others are freestanding or built into the pool wall. Knowing whether your ladder is made of metal, plastic, or a combination helps narrow down compatible replacement parts. I recommend checking your ladder’s brand and model number if possible.

2. Material Matters

I’ve found that ladder steps come in materials like stainless steel, plastic, and sometimes rubber-coated options. Stainless steel steps are durable and resistant to rust, which is perfect if your pool is outdoors or exposed to harsh chemicals. Plastic steps are lighter and often have textured surfaces to prevent slipping. In my case, I chose plastic steps with a non-slip tread because safety was a big concern.

3. Size and Fit Are Crucial

One mistake I made early on was not measuring my ladder steps properly. Replacement steps come in different widths and depths, so I used a tape measure to get the exact dimensions of my existing steps. Also, I checked the spacing between rungs to make sure the new steps would fit without modification.

4. Weight Capacity and Safety**

I always look at the weight capacity of the ladder steps. My pool is used by family members of various sizes, so I wanted steps that could comfortably support heavier weights without bending or breaking. Look for steps with reinforced frames or extra support if you expect heavy use.

5. Ease of Installation**

I prefer replacement steps that come with clear instructions and all necessary hardware. Some steps are simple to install with just a screwdriver, while others might require tools or even professional help. If you’re like me and prefer a DIY approach, look for models that advertise easy installation.

6. Non-Slip Surface**

Safety first! I always choose steps that have a textured or non-slip surface to reduce the risk of slipping when wet. Some steps have grooves or rubber inserts that provide extra grip, which I found very reassuring especially when kids are using the pool.

7. Budget Considerations**

Replacement ladder steps come in a range of prices. While I didn’t want to overspend, I avoided the cheapest options because they often compromise on quality. Setting a reasonable budget helped me focus on products that balanced cost and durability.

8. Reviews and Brand Reputation**

Before making my final purchase, I read customer reviews and checked the reputation of the brand. Hearing from other pool owners about their experience with specific replacement steps gave me confidence in my choice.

Final Thoughts

Replacing pool ladder steps might seem straightforward, but picking the right ones involves careful consideration of material, fit, safety, and ease of installation. By following the steps I outlined here, I was able to find replacement steps that restored my ladder’s safety and comfort, making pool time enjoyable again.

I hope my guide helps you find the perfect replacement pool ladder steps for your needs!

Author Profile

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Patrick Hall
Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.

In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.