Don’t Overlook Those Thrift-Store Trays: 10 Brilliant Ways to Reuse Them
Old serving trays from Goodwill or other thrift stores can be surprisingly versatile. With a good cleaning and, if needed, a little paint or decorative paper, they can become useful organizers and home décor pieces.
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Create a coffee station — Keep coffee, mugs, sugar, and other morning essentials together on one tray.
Make a sink-side organizer — Corral hand soap, dish soap, brushes, and sponges instead of letting them spread across the counter.
Turn it into a bedside catch-all — Use a small tray for glasses, books, keys, lotion, and other nighttime essentials.
Organize the bathroom counter — Group toiletries, cotton swabs, soap, and small accessories in one attractive arrangement.
Build a craft station — Keep scissors, thread, paintbrushes, glue, beads, or other small supplies contained and portable.
Make an ottoman tray — A sturdy, flat tray can provide a stable surface for drinks, remotes, books, or snacks.
Create a decorative centerpiece — Add a vase, candles, seasonal décor, or a small plant arrangement.
Turn it into wall décor — Paint it, stencil it, or add decorative paper and hang it as an accent piece. Thrifted trays are commonly used for these kinds of makeovers.
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Make a message or menu board — With the appropriate preparation and paint, an old tray can become a decorative chalkboard.
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Use it as a portable organizing tray — Keep frequently used items together and simply move the entire tray when you need the counter or table cleared.
Before you reuse one
Clean and inspect the tray carefully, especially if you’re planning to use it for food. For wooden trays, check for mold, deep cracks, warping, or damaged finishes. If you’re painting or decorating it, choose materials appropriate for the intended use.
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Reinvented Delaware
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The best part: you don’t need an expensive vintage find. Even an inexpensive, scratched tray can become attractive with paint, decoupage, stencils, or a simple new finish.
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