While it’s probably not the first product that comes to mind when you think about detailing, a step ladder or platform is one of those purchases you will be glad you made as a detailer or car enthusiast. Attention to detail especially on roofs is something that is difficult to do, especially if you don’t want to use a brush (which can lead to scratching).
In this blog post, I’ll break down 3 solid platforms and ladders to help you wash a variety of car or truck types.
Work platform, ladder, or scaffolding?
These three types are all used in the detailing world, but the most common devices I see fall in the work platform category. The reason is because work platforms are usually collapsible, and made out of aluminum, which makes them pretty lightweight.
Stepladders on the other hand generally aren’t ideal for washing cars, because they don’t give you much room to work horizontally. Unless you own a lifted vehicle, a stepladder may not be the best option.
If you just need something to reach the top of your vehicle, I recommend this platform out of all of the ones out there.
1. Giantex Aluminum Non-Slip Work Platform
Ideal for
Most people. Lightweight, and anti-skid.
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This unit is one of my favorites for auto detailing simply due to the fact that it is non-slip. It also folds up nicely and has two safety locks that lock it in place. Some of these I’ve seen are 100% aluminum throughout, but this one actually has black anti-skid cloth on the top and raised strips for maximum traction.
If you have a truck like I do, this is one of those must-have products that gets the job done. Steps on both side also make it easy to climb.
Product Features:
- Load capacity: 330lbs
- Side access steps on both sides
- Height: 19.3 inches from floor to top
- Non-slip rubber pad on leg bottoms
2. 24-inch Portable Steel Work Platform
Ideal for
Large vehicles or RVs
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Out of all the options mentioned this one is the most industrial and sturdy, but also the most expensive. These are awesome for waxing tall vehicles, and has more space for bottles and a detailing caddy if you have one. It also comes with casters for easy mobility.
If you have the space and normally wash your car at home, these are really nice to have for cars, boats, RVs, as well as painting. If you normally detail vehicles in your own garage or shop, this is an excellent choice for maneuverability.
These are a little pricey, but made well and the easiest to climb on the list.
Product Features:
- Load capacity: 450lbs
- Side access steps and rails
- Height: 40 inches from floor to top
- Non-slip surface
- Welded steel construction with 2 casters for mobility
3. 6 Foot Adjustable Multi-Purpose Scaffolding
Ideal for
Commercial truck washing and RV applications
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If you own an RV or detail anything that is pretty tall, you can’t beat a good multi-purpose scaffold for the money. This model by Pro-Series I found for less than $200 online which is about the most affordable scaffold you can purchase.
If you are a homeowner and car enthusiast, this is a smart investment in my opinion. It’s got plenty of room for a bucket, bottles, and really everything you need to have when washing a truck or camper. These also are adjustable, which the other options are not.
Product Features:
- Load capacity: 1,000lbs
- Side access steps and rails
- Height: 40 inches from floor to top
- Non-slip surface
- Adjustable
- Welded steel construction with 2 casters for mobility
Conclusion
Hopefully you have a few ideas in mind for reaching those hard to reach areas of your vehicle. For mobile detailers, portability is key so I would probably just go with a collapsible platform. If you are however doing paint correction, cleaning RV windows, or waxing hard to reach areas something a little bigger is nice to have.
Looking for a good and safe way to apply soap? Check out this post on foam guns and cannons to learn more.
