Try as we might to follow our regular routines in the midst of our quarantine, there are some days we just can’t muster the enthusiasm to do all of the things we normally would, like sitting down to a proper meal at the table. As we work to reduce our stress over COVID-19 by taking plenty of time to unwind and practicing acceptance — something Nevada-based PhD Alice Boyes says has real value in uncertain times — we’re implementing those principles at dinnertime, too, with some of the best TV trays on the market.
Where to buy TV Trays
TV trays have been around for a good long while, becoming popular way back in the ‘50s (the same decade that Swanson’s frozen TV dinners were introduced). Though they fell out of fashion for a time, the country’s collective shelter in place orders has given these portable tables new life as we allow ourselves the simple pleasure of having our meals with a side of Netflix (Or Hulu. Or HBO. Or Amazon Prime).
Luckily, you can still pick them up at nearly any home goods retailer, with Wayfair, Target, and Amazon being some of the top contenders as far as selection is concerned.
The Best TV Trays
TV trays have come a long way since the days of yore, with manufacturers improving upon the original design with added extras such as cup holders, rolling wheels, adjustable heights and widths, and slim, under-couch designs. So which is best? That all depends on who you ask.
For some, a traditional fold-down model, like this UrbSpace pick ($48.49, Overstock), will do the trick, while others will prefer a more sophisticated-looking tray that will blend right into your décor — we’re partial to this rich Alpharetta design ($133.99, Wayfair), which boasts a certain panache, portable furniture or otherwise.
Keep scrolling for Woman’s World’s picks for the best TV trays you can buy.
This five-piece tray set, which retails for well over $100 at other retailers, is a staple among “best-of” lists across the internet, and for good reason: It boasts a rich, attractive walnut finish, durable water protection, and four snack tables that are large enough for any meal you can whip up. When you’re finished, you can slide them all into the included stand for storage.
As one of the most attractive designs on our list, no one would blame you for leaving Alpharetta’s wooded tray up at all times, but it’s also got foldable legs that collapse into a flat square should you need to store it away. It’s also water-resistant to ward off any would-be spills.
Sleek, modern lines set this Acme Furniture findapart from the rest of the pack. It’s got a simple, copper metal base and a stain-resistant acrylic top with a lightweight, low-to-the-ground silhouette that’s just the right height for enjoying your evening meal with a side of streaming.
This handy contraption can be as slim or as wide as you like (up to 24 inches across), thanks to an expandable design that allows you to adjust your tray to accommodate an extra-large meal, a coloring book, or your computer. You can also slide its base under the couch to save on space and keep your room clutter-free.
For a good old-fashioned take on the TV tray trend, check out this solid wood piece from Johar Furniture. Weighing in at just 6 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to carry from room to room. We also love the added cheer the red hue affords, though it’s also available in several other colors.
Unlike your run-of-the-mill collapsible models, this tray is built to look like a piece of stagnant furniture that will blend right into your living space. It’s subtle black metal legs easily slips beneath most standard couches and there’s an attractive, recessed top for keeping things handily within reach.
If you’re working with a smaller space, but still want the expediency of a TV tray, this clever sofa arm tray will be just the ticket. Draping over the side of your couch or chair, it has plenty of space for your drink, phone, remotes, and more.
Little ones will adore the fun, vibrant print that adorns these indoor/outdoor tray tables, which come in a set of two. They feature an easy-to-clean surface for any accidental messes, plastic capped legs to avoid floor scratching, and conveniently fold away when they’re not in use.
If you struggle with mobility issues, you can’t go wrong with this brilliantly-designed tray table from Signature Life, which has a 360-degree swivel, allowing you to push it out of your way when you need to stand. It’s adjustable to fit under couches, chairs, and lift recliners and supports up to 250 pounds.
Dinner for one? Skip the airs and settle in with this simple-yet-functional pick from Bluestone. Fitting over your lap, it’s got space for your plate or bowl, your beverage — we particularly love the built-in cup holder — your remote, and more. It’s got a no-slip edge, and a cleanable, BPA-free plastic façade.
This refined piece will not only look like a classy end table when clipped under the bottom of your couch, it comes equipped with four wheels that allow you to take it with you as you move about the house. Bring it to the kitchen, set up your food, and wheel it right over to the sofa!
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