Optimize Your Ottoman: Essential What to Put on Ottoman Tray Ideas

Christopher Jul 29, 2026

When it comes to transforming your living space into a cozy, functional haven, ottomans with trays can prove to be indispensable. These versatile furniture pieces not only provide extra seating but also offer a convenient surface for holding beverages, books, or decorative items. But with so many possibilities, you might find yourself wondering, "What to put on ottoman tray?" Today, we're exploring this very question, delving into practical, stylish, and innovative tray topper ideas to help you make the most of your ottoman's real estate.

21 Cutest Ways to Style an Ottoman Coffee Table Tray for Any Season
21 Cutest Ways to Style an Ottoman Coffee Table Tray for Any Season

Before we dive into the details, let's briefly discuss the benefits of ottomans with trays. Firstly, they keep your space tidy by providing a centralized hub for frequently used items like remotes, magazines, or reading glasses. Secondly, they offer a sturdy, flat surface for decorative accents, promising an extra layer of style to your room. Lastly, they provide added functionality, turning a simple ottoman into a side table or even a makeshift desk.

a tray with candles, flowers and other items on it that are labeled how to style a decorative tray
a tray with candles, flowers and other items on it that are labeled how to style a decorative tray

Aesthetic Accents: Elevating Style with Trays

One of the primary reasons to use an ottoman tray is to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your space. By carefully selecting decorative items, you can create a visually appealing display that reflects your personal aesthetic.

Warm Minimalist DIY Modern Home Decor – Cozy & Stylish Interior Inspiration
Warm Minimalist DIY Modern Home Decor – Cozy & Stylish Interior Inspiration

To achieve this, start with a solid base, such as a tray or platters in materials like wood, rattan, or lucite. This will unify your arrangement and ensure all items have a designated spot. Then, layer with a mix of heights, textures, and materials for dimension and interest.

Pops of Greenery

Grey Rattan Ottoman Tray with Handles
Grey Rattan Ottoman Tray with Handles

Living room plants, whether real or artificial, infuse life and vibrancy into your space. Place a small potted plant, succulent, or a vase with fresh flowers directly on the tray, or use a planter stand for added height. To keep things tidy, you can even place a small pebble tray underneath to catch any excess water.

For a bohemian-chic vibe, try clustering several potted plants of varying sizes and textures. Alternatively, for a minimalist aesthetic, opt for a single, sculptural potted plant as the sole decorative element on your tray.

Books and Coffee Table Accents

a wicker tray with books, vase and flowers sitting on top of the bed
a wicker tray with books, vase and flowers sitting on top of the bed

Transform your ottoman tray into an impromptu bookshelf by stacking a handful of your favorite books or coffee table books. To create a cohesive look, group them by color or size, or display them spine-out for a graphic, artistic effect. For added interest, intersperse some books with decorative objects, such as candles or sculpture, or position them at various heights using books stands or boxes.

To maintain an uncluttered look, opt for a mixture of thin, hardback books and larger, chunky tomes. For a more eclectic style, include some vintage or worn books; for a contemporary aesthetic, choose pristine, glossy books with eye-catching covers.

functionality Meets Form: Purging Clutter, Boosting Convenience

Insanely Cute Ottoman Tray Styling Tips You Will Love!
Insanely Cute Ottoman Tray Styling Tips You Will Love!

In addition to visual appeal, ottoman trays serve an essential practical purpose: they keep everyday essentials tidy and within reach. Here are some functional ideas for optimizing your ottoman tray space while maintaining a clutter-free aesthetic.

To make the most of this space, consider investing in ottoman or sofa side tables that coordinate with your existing furniture. These can be pushed against the furniture for a seamless look, providing a dedicated space for both form and function.

a tray filled with candles on top of a table next to a couch and coffee table
a tray filled with candles on top of a table next to a couch and coffee table
a wicker tray with flowers and books on it is sitting on a coffee table
a wicker tray with flowers and books on it is sitting on a coffee table
a blue vase with white flowers sitting on top of a wooden tray next to candles
a blue vase with white flowers sitting on top of a wooden tray next to candles
✨ Cozy Living Room Inspiration
✨ Cozy Living Room Inspiration
Ottoman Tray Decor Ideas To Create Modern Living Room Decor
Ottoman Tray Decor Ideas To Create Modern Living Room Decor
Round Braided Bankuan Tray with … curated on LTK
Round Braided Bankuan Tray with … curated on LTK
Little Touches, Big Fall Feel 🍁
Little Touches, Big Fall Feel 🍁
a white vase with flowers and candles on a wicker tray next to a candle holder
a white vase with flowers and candles on a wicker tray next to a candle holder
Beautiful large ottoman tray on Amazon!
Beautiful large ottoman tray on Amazon!

Remote Control Central

Tired of misplaced remotes and cords? Corral your electronics in one spot by dedicating your ottoman tray to a remote control station. Keep coasters, notepads, or writing implements in small bowls or jars to stay organized and clutter-free. To prevent a assertive look, HAL ve in your remotes with a decorative cover or store them in a sleek, shallow drawer under the tray.

For added convenience, consider incorporating a charging station with a power strip or wireless charging pad. Include a cable management solution, like a cable clip or under-ottoman power strip, to keep cords organized and hidden.

Craft and Hobby Station

If you're a craft enthusiast, an ottoman tray can serve as an ideal, portable workspace for your latest project. Store essentials like scissors, tape, glue, and other craft supplies in pretty containers or basket trays. For a more polished look, use a desktop organizer designed to fit within the tray's dimensions.

A sewing kit, knitting needles, or a sketchbook and drawing supplies can also find a home on your ottoman tray. When you're ready to tackle your project, simply grab the tray and you're good to go. Once you're done, simply slide it back onto the ottoman and tuck everything away for next time.

In your quest to determine what to put on ottoman tray, remember that the possibilities are endless. Whether you prefer a sleek, minimalist display or an eclectic mix of decorative items and daily essentials, each option offers a unique opportunity to customize your space while optimizing functionality. So, go ahead and experiment, rearrange, and evolve your ottoman tray setup as inspiration strikes – after all, having fun with interior design is part of the joy of creating a home that truly reflects you.