Don’t overlook these trays from Goodwill. Here are 10 brilliant ways to reuse them

 

Don’t Overlook These Trays from Goodwill — Here Are 10 Brilliant Ways to Reuse Them

Let’s be honest — it’s easy to walk right past the stack of old trays at your local Goodwill or thrift store. They might look scratched, outdated, or like something your grandma used for tea in the '70s. But don’t let the dust fool you — those overlooked trays are full of potential.

I had no clue how versatile they could be until I brought one home on a whim — now I’m officially obsessed. Whether they’re wood, metal, or plastic, these thrifted gems can be transformed into something stylish, functional, and totally unique with just a little creativity.

Here are 10 brilliant ways to reuse trays from Goodwill — prepare to be inspired!

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1. Turn It Into a Chic Coffee Table Tray

Give that old tray a quick coat of paint or stain, and boom — you’ve got the perfect spot for candles, remotes, coasters, and a stack of pretty coffee table books. Bonus points for adding handles or lining it with wallpaper for a custom touch.

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2. Use It as a Jewelry or Vanity Organizer

Place it on your dresser or bathroom counter to corral perfumes, makeup, or jewelry. It instantly elevates your space and keeps clutter at bay. Small dishes or bowls inside the tray can help separate items even more.

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3. Create a DIY Serving Tray for Entertaining

Line a tray with decorative paper and seal it with Mod Podge for a personalized serving tray. Great for carrying drinks to the patio or using as a stylish charcuterie board base.

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4. Make a Mini Herb Garden

Shallow trays (especially metal ones) make great bases for small pots or mason jars with herbs. Add some rocks for drainage, and you’ve got a cute, functional mini garden for your windowsill.

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5. Upcycle Into Wall Art

Yes — really! Spray paint an ornate tray and hang it as a unique piece of vintage wall decor. You can also use chalk paint and turn it into a magnetic message board.

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6. Corral Keys and Mail by the Entryway

A tray near the front door keeps your entryway neat. Add a small bowl for keys, space for mail, and maybe even a plant or candle. Suddenly that $2 tray feels like an intentional design choice.

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7. Make a DIY Tiered Tray Stand

Stack and glue trays together using thrifted candlesticks or glassware in between, and you’ve got a charming tiered stand for cupcakes, fruit, or bathroom storage.

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8. Use as a Plant Tray

Place a few potted plants on a tray to protect surfaces and catch excess water. Bonus: It makes your plants look beautifully grouped and more intentional.

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9. Organize Your Office Supplies

Use a tray to organize your desk — corral pens, notepads, and paperclips in one neat spot. A tray with compartments is even better for sorting essentials.

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10. Turn It Into a Kids’ Activity Center

Use a plastic tray as a base for crafts, LEGO builds, sensory bins, or snacks. Easy to clean and perfect for keeping messes contained.

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Final Thoughts:

The next time you’re at Goodwill or a thrift store, don’t skip the tray section. For just a few bucks, you can score a piece that brings both style and function to your space — all while keeping something out of the landfill. With a little imagination, that dusty tray could become your next favorite home hack.

So good to know, right? I had no clue these could be this useful — and now I never leave a thrift store without checking.