Don’t Ignore These Trays from Goodwill: 10 Nifty Ideas to Reuse Them
When you’re browsing Goodwill or any thrift store, it’s easy to overlook trays. They’re often tucked in a corner, mismatched, or made from materials that seem outdated. Yet, these humble items are incredibly versatile—and with a little creativity, they can transform your home, garden, and even your productivity.
Before you dismiss them as just another piece of “junk,” consider this: a tray is a blank canvas with endless possibilities. Whether it’s metal, wood, plastic, or ceramic, a tray can become a tool, a decoration, or a functional piece of art.
Here’s why you should never ignore trays at Goodwill and how to make them work for you.
Why Thrift Store Trays Are a Hidden Treasure
Trays at Goodwill are often inexpensive, sturdy, and already broken in—which means they don’t require the same investment as brand-new items. Even if they look outdated, this is actually a bonus. Out-of-date trays can be:
Painted or decoupaged to match your decor
Cut or adapted for creative projects
Repurposed in ways you never imagined
Plus, buying trays from a thrift store is eco-friendly, reducing waste and giving an object a second life.
What Makes a Good Tray for Reuse
Not all trays are created equal, but many are highly adaptable. Look for:
Sturdy materials like metal, wood, or thick plastic
Simple shapes that are easier to decorate or cut
Functional size for serving, storage, or projects
Minimal damage—small scratches or wear can add character
Even trays with minor imperfections can become standout pieces with some creativity.
1. Transform a Tray Into a Decorative Wall Display
One of the easiest ways to reuse a tray is by turning it into wall art.
How to Do It:
Clean the tray thoroughly.
Paint it in a color that complements your room.
Use hooks or adhesive strips to mount it on the wall.
Optional: Add photos, prints, or decorative items inside the tray.
This works well for kitchens, living rooms, or hallways. It’s also perfect for rotating seasonal displays.
Pro tip: Layer trays of different sizes for a gallery effect.
2. Create a Vanity Organizer
Trays are perfect for containing small items. Goodwill trays can be repurposed for:
Makeup
Perfumes
Jewelry
Hair accessories
By placing them on a dresser or vanity, they keep everything in one spot while adding a touch of style.
Pro tip: Line the tray with felt, fabric, or decorative paper to make it visually appealing and prevent items from sliding.
3. Make a Mini Herb Garden
Wood or metal trays can become small indoor gardens, perfect for herbs or succulents.
Steps:
Drill or punch drainage holes if needed.
Add a layer of pebbles, then soil.
Plant herbs like basil, thyme, or mint.
Place the tray on a sunny windowsill.
This creates a functional and attractive centerpiece for your kitchen, and the tray contains soil and water neatly.
4. Turn a Tray Into a Charging Station
If you’re tired of tangled cords on your desk, a tray is an ideal solution.
Place your phone, tablet, and charging cables inside.
Use a decorative tray to match your office or bedside style.
Keep power strips underneath or behind the tray for a cleaner look.
Not only does it reduce clutter, but it also protects surfaces from scratches and heat.
5. Upgrade a Tray for Outdoor Entertaining
Metal or melamine trays from Goodwill can easily be refreshed with paint or decorative stickers. Once updated, they are perfect for:
Serving drinks on the patio
Carrying snacks for picnics
Organizing garden tools temporarily while working outside
Adding non-slip pads to the bottom can prevent spills and scratches.
6. Use a Tray for Arts and Crafts Organization
If you’re a crafter, trays are invaluable. They can hold:
Paints, brushes, and markers
Beads and small embellishments
Sewing supplies
Puzzle pieces
Trays are portable and easy to clean, so you can take your projects anywhere without worrying about spills or messes.
Pro tip: Label sections with tape or dividers for even better organization.
7. Make a Coffee Table or Ottoman Tray
Larger trays can become functional coffee table organizers or ottoman trays.
Keep books, coasters, and decorative items contained
Protect fabric or wood surfaces from spills
Easily remove and store the tray when needed
Adding rubber or felt pads underneath can prevent scratching and sliding.
8. Convert Trays Into Serving Trays with a Twist
Some trays need only minimal upgrades to become stylish serving pieces:
Apply contact paper, paint, or decoupage inside the tray
Add handles if the tray lacks them
Use for breakfast in bed, tea service, or entertaining
Even old metal trays can be wiped clean and reused, making them both functional and decorative.
9. Use Trays as Desk or Drawer Organizers
Trays are perfect for keeping drawers tidy:
Organize office supplies
Contain kitchen utensils
Store makeup or skincare products
By using trays in drawers, you create sections and compartments without buying expensive dividers.
Pro tip: Match the tray color or pattern with your drawer interiors for a cohesive look.
10. DIY Jewelry Holder or Tray for Small Items
Shallow trays can hold rings, earrings, or keys near an entryway or on a dresser.
Add small hooks for necklaces or bracelets
Decorate with paint or wallpaper scraps
Stack multiple trays for tiered organization
It’s a practical solution that combines beauty and function.
Extra Tips for Reusing Trays from Goodwill
Clean thoroughly: Many trays may have dust, residue, or old stickers.
Sand or polish surfaces: Wood and metal trays can be sanded for a smooth finish.
Paint creatively: Chalk paint, spray paint, or decoupage can make trays feel brand new.
Layer trays for multi-function use: Use smaller trays inside larger ones for compartmentalization.
Mix materials: Combine wood, metal, and ceramic trays in creative displays.
The key is to see trays not as old, worn objects, but as versatile tools with design potential.
Why Reusing Trays Is More Than Just Practical
Repurposing trays isn’t only about saving money. It’s also about:
Sustainability: Reducing waste and giving items a second life
Creativity: Expressing your personal style
Functionality: Creating solutions that improve organization and efficiency
Personal satisfaction: Transforming something ordinary into something beautiful
It’s a simple, achievable way to make a difference both at home and for the environment.
Bonus Ideas for Old Trays
If you still have leftover trays, consider these ideas:
Magnetic trays for holding screws, nails, or craft pins
Tray garden labels: paint trays with chalkboard paint for garden markers
Pet feeding stations: place bowls on trays for easy cleanup
Holiday décor: trays as a base for candles, ornaments, or seasonal displays
The possibilities are limited only by your imagination.
Conclusion
Next time you walk past trays at Goodwill, don’t ignore them. What may seem like an ordinary or outdated item can become a functional, decorative, or organizational powerhouse in your home. From indoor gardens to vanity organizers, coffee table trays, and more, the potential is endless.
With a little creativity, a brush of paint, or a simple repurposing idea, these trays become tools for organization, creativity, and style. Not only will your home benefit, but you’ll also give a second life to items that might otherwise end up in a landfill.
So the next time you’re thrifting, remember: those trays are worth gold—if you know how to use them.
Start small, pick a tray, and try just one of these ten ideas today. Once you see the impact, you’ll start thinking about all the other ways you can bring new life to overlooked objects in your home.
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