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The ladder in Minecraft is one of the most practical tools for moving vertically through the game’s many structures and environments. Unlike pillars or scaffolding, ladders give players controlled movement, letting them climb safely, slow their descent, and avoid damage from a free fall.

Ladders are useful when exploring strongholds, library rooms, or creating access between floors in bases with a wooden ceiling.

Whether you’re building tall towers, navigating caves, or protecting yourself from mobs, ladders remain a simple yet essential item in both Java Edition and Bedrock Edition. In this guide, we'll show you how to make a ladder in Minecraft.

Crafting a Ladder in Minecraft: Bedrock & Java Edition

Crafting a ladder in Minecraft works the same in both Bedrock Edition and Java Edition. Using a crafting table, arrange seven sticks in an “H” pattern to create ladders. This is an example of how to craft a ladder in Minecraft.

Placing A Ladder In Minecraft

Placing a ladder in Minecraft is simple—select it in your inventory, hold the item in your hand, and place it directly on the sides of blocks. Ladders attach to wood blocks, stone, or other blocks, and can continue vertically or even create a descending ladder. Unlike floating ladders or signs, they rely on block states for support, so removing the block behind them will also remove the ladder.