Those of us that enjoy our time off on a loveseat or couch may not always have the luxury of a level surface to keep things on. Even those that do will sometimes benefit from an ottoman tray, which creates a steady, level surface — no matter where you’re relaxing.
If you aren’t sure which ottoman tray is best for your needs, the Kate and Laurel Lipton Hexagonal Ottoman Tray is a large, aesthetically-pleasing pick for those that can fit it on their ottoman or coffee table.
Deciding where you plan to put your ottoman tray is an important first step to consider when looking at which model to buy. While it isn’t unlikely you’ll put it on your ottoman, more versatile models may also be easy to use on your lap, the arm of your chair, a coffee table or a variety of other similar areas. The best ottoman trays will usually fit in multiple locations, though it’s important to make sure you don’t get a model that’s too large for your ottoman or space.
The vast majority of ottoman trays tend to be made from various wood materials with metal, plastic or simple cutout handles. However, you can also find a number of ottoman tray models made from other materials like bamboo, plastic and others still.
Most ottoman trays will come in a rectangular shape, though you can also find a handful of models that are square, circular or hexagonal. If the shape of your tray is important to you, you can usually find the specific dimensions of a given model in its product description. Consider the shape and size of the tray before you commit to buying it to make sure it works with your space.
Most importantly, an ottoman tray’s overall size will need to fit on your ottoman, coffee table or any other place you plan to use it. Smaller ottoman trays can be found at sizes as small as 10 inches, while those on the larger end of the spectrum may range from 20-30 inches.
Nearly every ottoman tray comes with some form of handle, which can make it easier to move the surface around, even while in use. While more affordable ottoman trays might simply include a cutout for the user’s hands at two opposite ends, other more decorative models may include metal or wood handles.
Perhaps the selling point of any ottoman tray is its overall design, and how it fits in with the user’s other decor and taste. Ottoman trays come in a wide variety of materials, shapes, stains and finishes, so if you’re looking for something in particular it likely won’t be impossible to find.
Depending on your budget, ottoman trays can be found at a wide range of prices that most can afford. Cheap ottoman trays will tend to cost somewhere between $16-$30, while more decorative and larger models will tend to be priced from $35-$90.
A. Depending on what you’re looking for in a large ottoman tray, most can find a model that suits their needs. You can find a wide range of ottoman trays ranging in sizes up to 30 inches, and those that need larger sizes may be able to order them custom.
A. Ottoman trays are one of the trickier pieces of furniture to decorate for the holidays, though it’s not impossible to help them hold a little holiday cheer. Many use decorations like garland, burlap or a simple bowl of candy to decorate ottoman trays for the holidays. Others prefer decorations that are appropriate year-round, like decorative drawer liners.
Kate and Laurel Lipton Modern Farmhouse 18x18-Inch Hexagon Ottoman Tray
What you need to know: This hexagonal ottoman tray is 18 inches in diameter. It features a rustic brown finish with two minimal black metal handles for easily moving the tray around.
What you’ll love: Boasting an excellent shape that can hold many items simultaneously, this modern ottoman tray also includes protective felt on the bottom. This ottoman tray is also available in black and gold, navy and silver or navy and gold.
What you should consider: This ottoman tray was a bit too big for some users, since its shape is a little wider in both dimensions than the average model.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
GET RST-1522-BK Black 15x20-Inch Non-Skid Ottoman Tray
What you need to know: Anyone on a budget will appreciate this straightforward ottoman tray. It features a sleek black design and a classic rectangular shape with angled sidewalls.
What you’ll love: This model’s angled edges make the space feel a little larger than it actually is, boasting a 15- by 20-inch surface area. The ottoman tray also features handles and comes at a price point that most buyers can afford.
What you should consider: A few buyers said this tray’s material felt a little bit cheap.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Lipper International 1165 20x14-Inch Curved Acacia Serving Ottoman Tray
What you need to know: For those that want a little bit different wood for their ottoman tray, this model features acacia wood and a stylish, dipped-edge wall design. It includes a slightly curved wall for easily accessing food, games or other tray needs.
What you'll love: The large ottoman tray is made of solid wood and is sturdy.
What you should consider: This tray’s wood stain and patterns can vary quite a bit from one unit to the next.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Peter McGuthrie writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
