For any household that has a loft or attic, I think the loft ladder is essential. That is, unless the household has stairs leading directly to the loft. But if there is a considerable space between the floor and the loft, then a ladder is essential to reach the loft. You should buy a sturdy loft ladder, too, to make sure it lasts a long time. If you go up regularly to the loft, then you need to install a fixed ladder. If the loft is rarely used, then a folding ladder may suffice. You only need to unfold the ladder when you need to use it. Before you buy a ladder, you need to make sure that the ladder can hold up the heaviest person in the family. This will ensure that anyone in the family can go up to the loft with no problem. Don’t buy a very heavy ladder, though. Just get one that is sturdy enough.