Serving Trays With Handles: A Buyer's Guide

A good serving tray makes hosting easier, breakfast in bed nicer and carrying drinks safer. But there is a surprising range of designs, and the handle makes all the difference to how a tray is used. Here is a simple guide to the main types of serving tray with handles, and who each one suits.

1. Side-handle serving trays

The classic tray, with a handle or cut-out at each end.

Good for: carrying lots of items in one trip, such as a tea set or a full breakfast.

Watch out for: you need both hands, so there is nothing free for doors, stairs or a walking stick. Drinks can slosh if you tilt the tray.

2. Butler trays and trays on stands

Larger trays, often wooden, that sit on a folding stand and double as a side table.

Good for: entertaining and drinks stations.

Watch out for: heavy to carry when loaded, and not designed for moving around the house.

3. Lap and bed trays

Trays with short legs or a cushioned base.

Good for: meals in bed or an armchair, laptops and hobbies.

Watch out for: you still need two hands to carry them to where you want them.

4. Balance trays and hanging trays

This is the type most people have not tried. Instead of holding the tray from underneath or at the sides, you hold it from a handle above, and the tray hangs beneath your hand. The idea comes from the traditional Turkish tea tray, and it works because the tray swings with the drinks, keeping them level as you move.

Good for: carrying drinks with one hand, climbing stairs, opening doors as you go, and anyone who uses a walking stick, cane or walker.

The Topple Tray is our take on this design. It has a stainless steel tray, handle and frame, carries up to four glasses, weighs around 750g, and comes with a removable non-slip neoprene mat. The handle folds flat onto the tray, so it stores neatly in a drawer or cupboard.

What to look for

• Material. Stainless steel is durable and easy to wipe clean. Wood looks warm but needs more care. Plastic is light but can stain and scratch.
• Non-slip surface. A grippy surface stops cups sliding around.
• Weight. Remember you will be lifting the tray plus everything on it.
• Storage. Folding handles and flat designs take up less space.
• How many hands you have free. If you need a hand for balance, a door or a pet, a one-handed tray is the safest choice.

Which is right for you?

For big family meals, a classic side-handle tray is hard to beat. For relaxed breakfasts in bed, a lap tray is perfect. For everyday carrying around the house, especially on stairs or with a walking aid, a balance tray like the Topple Tray is the most practical choice. If you are curious how it compares with another one-handed option, read our Topple Tray vs SpillNot comparison.

Try a tray you carry with one hand. Discover the Topple Tray serving tray with handle here.