Ohhh yes—Goodwill trays are low-key gold 🏆 Don’t sleep on them. Wooden, metal, plastic, wicker… they’re basically reusable canvases. Here are 10 genuinely brilliant ways to repurpose thrift-store trays:
1. 🪴 Plant Display Base
Group small pots on a tray to protect surfaces and make plants look intentional instead of chaotic jungle vibes.
2. 🛏 Bedside Catch-All
Perfect for glasses, phone, lip balm, watch, charger—everything that usually disappears into the void at night.
3. 🧴 Bathroom Organizer
Use one for perfumes, skincare, or rolled hand towels. Instantly makes the bathroom look styled, not cluttered.
4. 🕯 Coffee Table Decor Anchor
Candles + book + small object on a tray = designer look. It visually “contains” the mess.
5. 🍽 DIY Ottoman or Couch Table
Place a sturdy tray on an ottoman so you can set drinks down without panic. Bonus points if it has handles.
6. 🧰 Drawer or Cabinet Organizer
Shallow trays are great inside drawers for spices, cleaning supplies, or office tools.
7. 🎨 Craft or Homework Station
Kids (or adults) can keep all supplies on one tray—easy to move, easy to clean up.
8. 🖼 Wall Art or Message Board
Hang a decorative tray as wall art, or turn it into a memo board with clips or cork.
9. 🧺 Entryway Drop Zone
Keys, mail, sunglasses, wallet—one tray near the door saves so much daily frustration.
10. 🎁 Gift Basket Upgrade
Use a tray instead of a basket for gifts (coffee set, spa items, baking supplies). Looks thoughtful and reusable.
Pro Thrift Tip ✨
- Look for solid construction over looks
- Light sanding + spray paint or peel-and-stick liner = total glow-up
- Ignore stains—most clean up shockingly well
If you want, tell me what material the tray is (wood, metal, plastic, wicker), and I’ll give you ideas that fit it perfectly 👀
