Don’t Overlook These Trays from Goodwill: 10 Brilliant Ways to Reuse Them
A simple wooden folding tray table might not look like a special find at first glance, but it can become one of the most useful pieces of furniture in your home. These compact tables are often inexpensive at thrift stores, garage sales, and secondhand shops. They are lightweight, easy to move, and versatile enough to serve many purposes beyond holding a plate of food in front of the television.
The wooden folding tray table shown in the picture has a classic design: a flat tabletop supported by folding legs. Its natural wood finish makes it suitable for many decorating styles, from rustic and farmhouse-inspired interiors to modern, minimalist spaces.
Instead of throwing away an old tray table because it looks outdated or has a few scratches, consider giving it a second life. With a little cleaning, some creativity, and perhaps a small repair, you can turn it into something practical and attractive.
Here are 10 brilliant ways to reuse a wooden folding tray table and make the most of this often-overlooked thrift-store find.
1. Turn It into a Stylish Side Table
One of the easiest ways to reuse a folding tray table is to turn it into a small side table for your living room or bedroom.
Its compact size makes it useful in places where a full-sized table would take up too much room. You can place it beside a sofa, next to an armchair, or near the bed to hold everyday essentials.
Use it to display a small lamp, a book, a cup of tea, a decorative bowl, or a vase of flowers. You can also place a coaster on top and use the table as a convenient spot for your coffee or water glass.
If the original wood looks worn, you can refresh it with a gentle sanding and a new finish. A clear wood finish preserves the natural appearance, while a coat of paint can give the table a completely different look.
For a contemporary style, consider white, charcoal, or a muted green. If you prefer a traditional appearance, a warm brown stain may be more suitable.
Helpful tip: Check that the legs lock securely into place before using the table. A folding table should stand firmly and should not wobble when you place objects on it.
2. Create a Portable Coffee Station
If your kitchen counter is crowded with mugs, coffee jars, tea bags, and other supplies, a folding tray table can provide a small additional station.
Place it in a convenient corner of the kitchen, dining room, or living room. Arrange your coffee essentials on top, such as a jar of instant coffee, a small container of sugar, teaspoons, mugs, and napkins.
You can also use attractive baskets or containers to keep everything organized. For example, one basket can hold tea bags, while another stores coffee filters and stirrers.
The advantage of using a folding table is that you can move it whenever necessary. When guests arrive, you can bring the station closer to the seating area. When you need extra space, simply fold it away.
However, avoid placing a heavy coffee machine on a lightweight tray table unless the table’s construction and weight rating make it suitable. Hot appliances and liquids also require a stable, level surface.
For wooden tables, wipe up spills promptly to prevent moisture from damaging the finish.
3. Use It as a Reading or Writing Table
A folding tray table can become a convenient personal workspace for reading, writing, or handling small daily tasks.
Place it near a comfortable chair and use it to hold notebooks, books, pens, a reading lamp, or a tablet. It can also provide a temporary surface for writing letters, completing paperwork, or organizing household documents.
This arrangement is particularly helpful in small homes where there may not be enough room for a dedicated desk.
You can even create a small reading corner by placing the table beside an armchair, adding a soft cushion, and keeping your current book and a cup of tea nearby.
The table can also serve as a temporary work surface when you need to sort receipts, make a shopping list, or plan your weekly schedule.
Keep in mind that an ordinary tray table is not necessarily designed for prolonged laptop use. If you use one for this purpose, make sure it is stable, that the laptop has adequate ventilation, and that the screen and keyboard are positioned comfortably.
For heavier equipment or long working sessions, a properly designed desk is a better choice.
