10 Best Portable Wheelchair Ramps For Stairs

Wheelchair ramps are a vital aid for people who use wheelchairs permanently or temporarily. People with these disabilities often have limited access to rooms, entrances, and buildings due to structural limitations, such as staircases. It is sometimes impossible to modify areas around the house in order to meet the needs of the elderly or disabled. As a result, they need the best wheelchair ramp that meets their specific requirements.

Those with reduced mobility benefit from wheelchair ramps because they make them more independent and improve their quality of life. Although there are many ramp options available, picking the right one for you or your loved one shouldn't be a hassle. Therefore, this guide should be able to assist you in choosing the best wheelchair ramp for your needs. 

Types of wheelchair ramps

The first thing to keep in mind is that wheelchair ramps come in several different types. You should determine which type of ramp is most appropriate for your needs. The following are 5 types of ramps that you are likely to see around the house:

  1. Doorway ramps: The most ideal ramp for stairs for the elderly and disabled are doorway ramps, which cross several steps. They may have a threshold of more than one inch up to six inches.
  2. Vehicle ramps: These ramps are designed specifically for vehicles. In order to ensure a smooth transition between the bumper and the ground, they are usually designed with a protruding lip.
  3. Threshold ramps: They are designed for vertical inclinations such as entrances that have a short vertical rise. The ramps are most commonly used for doorways with short angles between 1/2 and 1 inch.
  4. Shower ramps: Due to their constant contact with water and humidity, these are the smallest ramps made of non-corrosive materials. Their role is to assist the elderly and the handicapped with getting their bath chairs into walk-in showers. For a shower ramp, a cheap wheelchair ramp will suffice since it does not have many features.
  5. Modular ramps: Since they can be adjusted to varying heights, modular ramps are useful for adjusting heights up to 12 inches. Their multifunctionality makes them a good choice.

In addition to this, there are also permanent & temporary wheelchair ramps available in the market.

Wheelchair Ramps For Stairs - Buying Guide

Several factors need to be taken into account before purchasing a wheelchair ramp:

  • Material: There are a number of different materials used in wheelchair ramps, such as rubber, aluminum, steel, and wood. Choosing the right material for your ramp will depend on its location and portability requirements. Portable ramps are usually made of rubber or aluminum. Moreover, the aluminum wheelchair ramp is lightweight and has non-corroding properties that make it an ideal choice for buyers.
  • Surface: When choosing a wheelchair ramp, ensure that the surface is non-slip to avoid slipping. This is especially important during inclement weather.
  • Weight of Wheelchair Ramp: Different wheelchair ramps weigh differently, depending on the size and material used. You should ensure the ramp's weight is appropriate for your needs if you plan on moving it often.
  • Weight Capacity of Wheelchair Ramp: Make sure the wheelchair ramp you are considering has a stated weight capacity. It is not recommended that the combined weight of the wheelchair, the user, and the caregiver exceeds the ramp's total weight capacity.
  • Portability: You might want to consider a wheelchair ramp that folds and has a handle if it will be used in multiple places. The reason for this is that a foldable wheelchair ramp is much easier to move. Moreover, it is also important to know the folded dimensions of the ramp so that it can be transported or stored efficiently.
  • Wheelchair Ramp Width: You should choose a wheelchair ramp that is wide enough to support the width of your wheelchair comfortably.
  • Wheelchair Ramp Length and Incline: When choosing a wheelchair ramp, it is crucial to consider the length of the ramp, which will depend on the angle of the incline you intend to achieve. When it comes to wheelchair ramps, following the American Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications is always a good idea. In general, there are two wheelchair ramp slope standards: 
  • Occupied standards: It means the wheelchair is occupied. When someone is sitting in a wheelchair while it moves down the ramp. A gradient of 3.12 is recommended by the ADA. The wheelchair must move one foot in length for every three inches it rises in the vertical direction.
  • Unoccupied standards: In this case, it means the wheelchair is not occupied. No one is sitting on it. Under this category, the ADA recommends a slope of 1.12, which means that a 12-inch rise should correspond to a 6-foot wheelchair movement.

The length of a ramp increases with the vertical distance.

10 Best Wheelchair Ramps For Stairs

As we have discussed before, wheelchair ramps are a great way to make your house accessible for people with disabilities. In fact, a wheelchair ramp is essential for homes with stairs. But what kind of wheelchair ramp should you get? We've got you covered! Here are the 10 best portable wheelchair ramps for stairs:

1. ORFORD’s Portable Non-Skid Wheelchair Ramp For The Elderly

If you are searching for a lightweight and portable wheelchair ramp for stairs, ORFORD’s Wheelchair Ramp is the right option.

It offers durability and rust-proof aluminum construction with 600 lbs of weight capacity to facilitate you with support and maximum stability. Without effort, you can push your wheelchair, scooter, trunk, or walker on garages or low stairs.

This easy-to-fold ramp is suitable for all weather conditions. It also has an anti-skid pad that makes it safe to use. You can carry it anywhere with ease.

Pros

  • Rust-proof aluminum
  • Lightweight
  • Foldable
  • Portable
  • Non-skid
  • Weather resistant
  • High load bearing
  • Durable

Cons

  • A bit expensive

2. Ruedamann’s Lightweight Wheelchair Ramp For The Elderly & Disabled - 2FT

Here is another recommendation for a lightweight and portable wheelchair ramp. This folding wheelchair ramp by Ruedamann gives you access to stairs, curbs, steps, or doorways. Its sturdy hinge makes this ramp durable and available for manual wheelchairs, rollators, trolleys, etc.

The thickened anti-slip pads at the top of the ramp offer safety and prevent slipping during use. If we talk about the quality of rivets, you will find stainless steel rivets in them that are durable and not easy to rust.

You can try this versatile ramp for indoor or outdoor use.

Pros

  • Thickened anti-slip pads
  • Stainless steel rivets
  • Portable
  • Rust-proof
  • No need to assemble
  • Lightweight
  • Durable

Cons

  • Unfit for too-flat ground

3. ORFORD’s Foldable Wheelchair Ramp For The Elderly - 4FT

ORFORD Foldable Non-Skid Wheelchair Ramp is a perfect choice for anyone searching for a lightweight and portable 4ft ramp. Its non-skid surface ensures your safety, and you can push your wheelchair or scooter without any effort.

You can easily install this convenient portable wheelchair ramp. Moreover, it is durable with stainless steel hinges and rust-proof aluminum construction. There is hardly any possibility of tipping over it as it has a flat surface.

Pros

  • Non-skid surface
  • Safety latch
  • Portable & Foldable
  • Stable hinge
  • Lightweight
  • Rust-proof

Cons             

  • Not suitable for 3 wheelers

4. Titan Ramps’ 8 FT Multifold Wheelchair Ramp For The Elderly

If you have a query for an outdoor semi-permanent ramp, you can go for Titan ramps 8ft multifold wheelchair ramp. It is incredibly convenient due to its ready-to-go installation and briefcase style. You can use this multifold wheelchair ramp in your home, garage, or anywhere. 

Corrosion-resistant aluminum is a part of the manufacturing of this ramp. It makes it reliable and durable for a long time.  Moreover, this ramp offers a wide design with a non-slip surface that ensures the safety of motorized wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Its weight capacity is up to 600 pounds.

Pros

  • Multifold
  • Easy to assemble
  • Durable
  • Portable
  • Corrosion-resistant aluminum
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Not intended for walking

5. HOMCOM’s Portable, Weather-Resistant & Skid-Proof Wheelchair Ramp - 6FT

HOMCOM portable skid-proof Wheelchair Ramp provides easy access to your wheelchair, bikes, scooters, motorcycles, etc. This aluminum wheelchair ramp is sturdy and durable and offers a weight capacity of up to 600 lbs.

You will find it portable and easy to fold. It is convenient for daily use. Furthermore, you can fold this ramp a half and carry it in your hand or with you anywhere you drive. Its lightweight and skid-proof ramp that prevents sliding. Use it in any weather condition, and you will not regret it.

Pros

  • Multifunctional
  • Anti-corrosive aluminum alloy
  • Portable
  • Weather resistant
  • Lightweight
  • Durable & Stable

Cons

  • A little heavy for some users

6. 4FT Folding Aluminum Wheelchair Ramp

Try this 4FT Folding Aluminum Wheelchair Ramp with safety supports. Its functions are reliable and safe to use in every weather. The tight bottom grip of this ramp prevents sliding or slipping. 

The multifunctional feature and the wide enough width of this ramp allow you to use it for wheelchairs, bikes, scooters, etc. You will find it lightweight and easy to fold and carry. It comes with a maximum 600 lbs capacity.

Pros

  • Safe-to-use
  • Portable
  • Weather resistant
  • Lightweight
  • Easy-to-carry
  • Multifunctional

Cons

  • Not suitable for walking

7. Ruedamann’s Rust-Proof Two-Section Lightweight Wheelchair Ramp

This versatile two-section telescopic design wheelchair ramp is ideal for doorways, steps, and stairs. You can use it for both indoor and outdoor areas. It is lightweight, portable, and easy to carry with a sturdy handle. Moreover, its non-rust, slide-proof, and water-resistant features make it durable and ideal for daily use and in bad weather conditions.

You will receive this ramp with bolts that are easy to fix. Its anti-skid pad is reliable and prevents sliding and unexpected slipping mishaps. You can also use it confidently for bicycles or scooters.

Pros

  • Rubber non-slip mat
  • Weather resistant
  • Rust-proof
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • Convenient to carry
  • Portable

Cons

  • Not suitable for motorcycles & power chairs

8. Ruedamann’s Portable, Water-Proof Aluminum Wheelchair Ramp

Try this lightweight aluminum wheelchair ramp that is non-rusty, water-proof, and has a simple telescopic design. It is comfortable to carry with a bag and a sturdy plastic handle. It is suitable for outdoor and indoor areas, such as curbs, steps, entrances, stairs, etc.

Moreover, it is constructed with stainless steel and can carry 600 lbs of weight. With aluminum alloy, it offers durability and toughness that is perfect for bicycles, scooters, and manual wheelchairs.

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Adjustable length
  • Weather resistant
  • Rubber non-slip mat
  • Convenient to carry
  • Compact
  • Durable

Cons

  • Not suitable for electric wheelchairs

9. Prairies View Industries’ Portable & Rust-Free Multi-fold Ramp

If you want a multifold ramp that is easy to handle, you can try this portable multi-fold ramp. You can fold it easily and carry it like a suitcase or separate it into two pieces for more convenience.

Its hinges are easy to attach and make a smooth and safe slope. It is a perfect option for wheelchairs and scooters. You will find it rust-free and water-resistant.

Pros

  • Multifold
  • Easy-to-hold
  • Non-slip
  • Water-resistant
  • Rust-free
  • Portable

Cons

  • Not lightweight for some people

10. 8FT Multi-Fold Corrosion-Resistant Wheelchair Ramp

This 8ft multifold wheelchair ramp is suitable for the elderly and disabled. This aluminum ladder has 600 pounds load-bearing capacity, and you can use it daily.

Its corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy structure gives it durability and excellent stability. With serrated cross steps, it prevents wheels from sliding back. It is suitable for wheelchairs, scooters, and bicycles.

Pros

  • Durable
  • Lightweight
  • Corrosion-resistant
  • Excellent grip & stability
  • No need to assemble
  • Raised serrated cross step

Cons

  • Bulky

Conclusion

The wheelchair ramp is the ultimate tool that will not just help you in moving downstairs but also help you in avoiding all the hassle. The best wheelchair ramps for stairs are the ones that will make your life easier and more comfortable. The portable wheelchair ramps can be used by people in wheelchairs to go up and down stairs. Such products are usually used by physically challenged people when they need to move from one place to another.

Just by making the list of the best products, we tried to find a solution to your problem. We have compiled a list of the 10 best wheelchair ramps for stairs that can help you to choose the right product easily. We hope this list will help you in making a purchase decision.

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