# TLDR Review: Mainstays Folding Stool

*Published: 2025-05-20 | Updated: 2025-07-18 | Source: https://shopsavvy.com/reviews-tldr/mainstays-folding-stool*

---

## Product: Mainstays Folding Stool
**Brand:** Mainstay

## Pros
- Very lightweight and comfortable, making it easy to move around the house or office.
- Ideal height of 24 inches, perfect for kitchen countertops and taller seating needs, unlike more common 20-inch stools.
- Versatile design suitable for both kitchen and office tasks, such as photocopying and scanning.
- No assembly required; comes fully assembled and folds flat for quick storage.
- Economical alternative that offers good value compared to pricier, less satisfactory models.
- Encourages good posture thanks to the absence of a backrest.
- Sturdy construction and stable under heavier loads, yet still lightweight and portable.
- The foldable design simplifies storage and it fits well in tight spaces.
- Provides a comfortable seating option for brief use and shorter individuals.
- Attractive design that blends well with various setups.

## Cons
- Initial difficulty in locating the release button for folding, but it becomes simple after the first use.
- Minimal cushioning; suitable for short periods but may become uncomfortable over extended use.
- Metal seat bottom might make a popping noise if sat on at an angle; doesn't affect stability, but could be annoying.
- Effort needed to fold back up, although still manageable.
- Thin vinyl seat requires additional padding for those seeking long-lasting comfort.
- Maximum weight limit is accurate; caution necessary for heavier users.

## Bottom Line

The Mainstays Folding Metal Stool, Black, is a versatile, lightweight, and economical option suitable for short-term seating needs, especially in kitchens and offices. While it excels in portability and ease of use, potential buyers should be mindful of its minimal cushioning if prolonged comfort is a priority. Its 24-inch height is advantageous for those looking for taller seating, but its thin padding suggests an upgrade might be necessary for extended use or if a sturdier option is required.

## Pros vs Cons at a Glance

| Pros | Cons |
|------|------|
| Very lightweight and comfortable, making it easy to move around the house or office. | Initial difficulty in locating the release button for folding, but it becomes simple after the first use. |
| Ideal height of 24 inches, perfect for kitchen countertops and taller seating needs, unlike more common 20-inch stools. | Minimal cushioning; suitable for short periods but may become uncomfortable over extended use. |
| Versatile design suitable for both kitchen and office tasks, such as photocopying and scanning. | Metal seat bottom might make a popping noise if sat on at an angle; doesn't affect stability, but could be annoying. |
| No assembly required; comes fully assembled and folds flat for quick storage. | Effort needed to fold back up, although still manageable. |
| Economical alternative that offers good value compared to pricier, less satisfactory models. | Thin vinyl seat requires additional padding for those seeking long-lasting comfort. |
| Encourages good posture thanks to the absence of a backrest. | Maximum weight limit is accurate; caution necessary for heavier users. |
| Sturdy construction and stable under heavier loads, yet still lightweight and portable. |  |
| The foldable design simplifies storage and it fits well in tight spaces. |  |
| Provides a comfortable seating option for brief use and shorter individuals. |  |
| Attractive design that blends well with various setups. |  |

## Current Prices

| Retailer | Price | Availability |
|----------|-------|-------------|
| dexterclearance.com | $12.96  | In Stock |
| Instacart | $16.12  | In Stock |
| Walmart | $16.12  | In Stock |
| Shopping.com | $26.52  | In Stock |

---

*About this review: We pulled together findings from professional and user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.*