I purchased the stool for my mother after a recent kitchen remodel.  As a kid, my mother had an almost identical stool with the steps attached.   This stool the steps are not attached, but rather have a guide track for the steps to slide on.  Initially to my dismay the steps easily slip out of the track.  After a few months, however, the separate steps are fantastic.  Sturdy enough by themselves, the steps have become the go-to step stool.  Additionally the stool itself is much more manageable without the weight of the steps.  Assembly was straightforward and took about 20 minutes with a electric screwdriver.  Mom and I are very pleased with the stool!!