When choosing the best dressing stick, look for an option that features different types of hooks to help with a variety of dressing needs. RMS’s deluxe dressing stick offers a vinyl-coated push/pull hook on one end, as well as a C-hook on the opposite end that is perfect for zippers and shoelaces. There’s much more it can do, and you can learn about all its uses below.
Our Winner - Deluxe 28-Inches Long Dressing Stick by RMS
The 28-inch long dressing stick by RMS is made of vinyl-coated hardwood, making it highly durable and smooth to the touch.
Buy on AmazonWhile simple and easy to use, there may be more to these daily living aids than meets the eye. The best dressing sticks should be versatile, able to handle shirts and skirts, but also zippers, shoes, socks, and anything you need. Making the right choice equates to independence for those with dexterity difficulties, so it’s important to take all your needs into consideration before buying. Checkout our top picks in the list below.
Our Top Picks
Our Winner
RMS
Deluxe 28-Inches Long Dressing Stick
Professional’s Pick
Vive
Dressing Stick with Zipper Puller
Top Choice
JJDPARTS
Dressing Stick with Shoe Horn
The 7 Best Dressing Sticks
| Product | Brand | Length | Material | Additional Features | Best Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deluxe 28-Inches Long Dressing Stick | RMS | 28” | Vinyl-Coated Hardwood | Zippers & Shoelace Loops |  |
| Dressing Stick with Zipper Puller | Vive | 27” | Birchwood | Slacks & Skirts | |
| Dressing Stick with Shoe Horn | JJDPARTS | 33” | Plastic | Sock & Shoe Aid | |
| Dressing Stick | Maddak | 24” | Plastic | Sock Aid | |
| Wooden Dressing Stick with Metal | Vinyl Hooks by Duro-Med | 27” | Wood | Zipper Pull | |
| Dressing Stick and Sock Puller | Sammons Preston | 26” | Wood | Sock Aid & Dresses | |
Our Winner: Deluxe 28-Inches Long Dressing Stick by RMS
Buy on AmazonThe smooth, vinyl-coated hooks on this dressing stick by RMS are perfect for all kinds of fabrics. It won’t rip or tear your delicates but is also sturdy enough to manage heavy coats because of it’s durable hardwood shaft. At 28 inches, it’s the perfect medium between longer and shorter dressing sticks, staying maneuverable while reaching everything you need. The zipper hook end is a definite plus and can be used for all kinds of things, including shoelaces.
Main Features
- Vinyl-coated hooks
- Smaller, zipper hook end
- Smooth finish
- Durable hardwood
- Latex free
Pros:
- Great for zippers and shoelaces
- Large hook makes grabbing easy
- Long length compared to other products
- Easy to travel with
Cons:
- Takes a bit of practice to use right
- Hook is too large for some zippers
Professional's Pick: Dressing Stick with Zipper Puller by Vive
Vive’s dressing stick is another version that features a large S-hook and a smaller zipper pull. However, this product is also designed to split in half for easy storage and transport, adding an extra layer of convenience. Once you need to put it back together, simply screw the two ends together and you’re good to go. The body of the dressing stick is made of lightweight birch, which is ideal for travel and maneuverability.
Main Features
- Snag-free S hook
- 27” pole
- Lightweight birch wood
- Separates into two pieces for easy travel
- Vinyl-coated hooks
Pros:
- Durable and lightweight
- Great for coats and jackets
- Easy to maneuver
- Opposite ends screw easily together
Cons:
- Not as useful for socks
Top Choice: Dressing Stick with Shoe Horn by JJDPARTS
If you’re looking for an extra-durable dressing stick, then JJDPARTS’ product may be the answer. It’s plastic body is not only water resistant, but also resilient to breaking or bending. The seller claims that it can bent to a 45-degree angle without any permanent damage, meaning you will be able to count on having this product around through thick and thin. It splits into three pieces during travel, letting you fit it into even smaller bags.
Main Features
- Splits into three pieces for compact storage
- Includes shoe horn extension
- Durable plastic
- 33 inch shaft
- Original S-shaped push/pull hook design
Pros:
- Plastic rod is easy to clean
- Resists water
- Lightweight design
- Latex free
Cons:
- Does not include zipper pull
- 3 segment design is less durable
The Other Best Dressing Sticks We Reviewed
Dressing Stick by Maddak
At 24 inches, this stick by maddak is one of the smaller options on our list. However, depending on your body type this can be a major advantage. Its slightly smaller size will feel much more maneuverable while the lightweight wood design helps too. Plus, it still features the classic S-hook and zipper pull combo, making it quite versatile. However, if you have longer arms and legs, a longer stick is probably a better option.
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Wooden Dressing Stick with Metal and Vinyl Hooks by Duro-Med
A durable wood dowel connects the two hooks of this dressing stick. It’s made to last, durable enough for long-term use while lightweight and maneuverable at 27 inches. In short, it has everything you’re looking for in a basic dressing stick. However, bear in mind that the rod itself isn’t collapsable or detachable in any way, so it’s not great for travel.
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Dressing Stick and Sock Puller by Sammons Preston
The wooden dowel on this dressing stick is coated with protective plastic, adding an extra level of durability, and resistance to water. It’s also easy to clean and offers a firm grip when using. It’s a good choice for shirts, coats, ebelts, socks, and many other daily dressing needs. Though before buying, be aware that the angular push/pull hook sometimes snags on more delicate fabrics.
Buy on AmazonDressing Stick FAQ
If you want to learn more about these handy home dressing aids, find the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions here.
What Are the Benefits of a Dressing Stick?
Dressing sticks are designed for those who suffer from dexterity issues or generally limited mobility, as well as rehab patients. They allow the user to retrieve articles of clothing without reaching or bending over, and allow these individuals to retain a level of independence while dressing. They can be used for a variety of different clothing items, from shirts and pants to shoes, socks, and zippered jackets.
How Long Should a Dressing Stick be?
A dressing stick should be proportional to the person using it. Since they range from around 2 to 3 feet, shorter individuals should look for sticks closer to 2 feet, while taller people should tend closer to 3.
What Other Features Should I Look for?
Most dressing aids also come with a C-hook zipper pull, allowing the user to snag zippers and other small openings like shoelace loops. Some sticks instead offer a shoe horn, which is good to have handy if you suffer from swollen feet. Be sure to read your product description carefully to find any hidden features.
How to Use a Dressing Stick
Most dressing sticks come with an S-shaped hook, with one arm used to grip fabric and push it away, and the other to snag sleeves and belt loops and draw them closer. The truth is that there is a wide variety of uses. See some of the most common below:
- Remove and return clothing from hangers
- Use the reacher or pusher end to manage pants and skirts
- Hooking zippers
- Pulling the hem of a shirt during removal
- Run it through the sleeve of a shirt and jacket, and then pull it over your shoulder
And much more! While dressing sticks take a bit of practice to use correctly, they soon become an indispensable tool in the lives of many.
Weighing All the Factors
When it comes to versatility, durability, and ease of use, we found RMS’s deluxe 28-inch dressing stick to be the perfect combination. However, if you’re looking for a dressing aid that’s a bit different, don’t hesitate to give one of the other products a try. Vive and JJDPARTS each bring their own unique strengths to the table, like a collapsable rod, or durable shoe horn attachment. Checkout a few for yourself and see what works best for you.
Our Winner - Deluxe 28-Inches Long Dressing Stick by RMS
The 28-inch long dressing stick by RMS is made of vinyl-coated hardwood, making it highly durable and smooth to the touch.
Buy on Amazon