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

At first glance, those old trays sitting on thrift store shelves might not seem like anything special. Scratched surfaces, outdated patterns, or worn edges can make them easy to ignore. But for anyone with a bit of creativity, these trays are far from useless—they’re full of hidden potential.

Thrifted trays, often found for just a few dollars, are sturdy, versatile, and surprisingly adaptable. Whether made of wood, metal, or plastic, they can serve as the perfect base for a wide range of DIY projects. Instead of throwing them away or passing them by, many people are now turning these simple items into stylish, functional pieces for their homes.

Upcycling trays is not only budget-friendly, but also environmentally responsible. By reusing items instead of discarding them, you reduce waste and give everyday objects a second life. With just a few tools and a bit of imagination, you can transform a forgotten tray into something useful, decorative, or even completely unexpected.

Here are ten creative and practical ways to reuse thrift store trays.

1. Turn a Tray into a Mini Herb Garden
One of the simplest and most rewarding ideas is using a tray as a small indoor herb garden.

By adding soil and planting herbs like mint, basil, or parsley, you can create a compact gardening space perfect for a windowsill or balcony. Some trays may need small drainage holes, depending on the material.

This idea works especially well because trays are naturally shallow and easy to manage, making them ideal for small plants.

2. Create a Floating Wall Shelf
With a bit of paint and some mounting hardware, a tray can become a unique wall shelf.

Attach brackets or supports, secure the tray to the wall, and use it to display books, plants, or decorative items. This is a great way to add personality to a room without spending much money.

3. Upgrade It into a Stylish Serving Tray
Even if a tray looks outdated, it can easily be refreshed.

Sanding the surface, repainting it, and adding handles can turn it into a modern serving tray for drinks, snacks, or breakfast in bed. With the right finish, it can look completely new.

4. Organize Your Kitchen or Drawers
Trays are perfect for keeping things organized.

Use them to: