How to Store Serving Trays

To store serving trays properly, start by cleaning, drying, and wrapping each one before you pack them away. Organized storage keeps trays looking new and ready for your next meal, party, or holiday gathering. Whether your collection includes metal, glass, or wood pieces, careful preparation helps prevent scratches and dents.

Clean and Dry

Wash every tray with warm, soapy water or wipe with a soft, damp cloth, depending on the material. For wooden trays, use a mild cleaner and dry immediately with a towel to prevent moisture from seeping into the surface. For glass or metal, polish to remove fingerprints or water spots. Once cleaned, allow each tray to air-dry completely.

Wrap Individually

Wrap trays in soft packing paper or bubble wrap to protect surfaces. If you’re storing multiple trays of the same size, place a layer of paper between them to prevent rubbing. Avoid stacking heavy trays on fragile ones. Label each set clearly by material or use — for instance, “holiday trays,” “wooden,” or “serving platters.”

Pack and Cushion

Use a sturdy box or bin lined with paper or a towel on the bottom. Place trays upright if possible, like books on a shelf, to reduce pressure on the surfaces. Fill gaps with crumpled paper to keep everything from shifting.

Organize in Your Unit

Store boxes of serving trays on shelves rather than the floor. Keep heavier materials such as metal or wood at the bottom and lighter ones like plastic or melamine above. If you’re storing other kitchenware like wine glasses or utensils, keep all dining essentials in one section for easy access.

Maintain Long-Term

If trays will stay in storage for several months, add a small moisture absorber to each box. Check occasionally for dust or residue. When it’s time to unpack, give each tray a quick wipe before using it.

Serving trays are easy to keep organized with a little care and labeling. Clean, wrap, and arrange them in boxes before stashing them in your Public Storage unit. You’ll free up space at home while keeping your entertaining essentials ready for the next occasion.

Features and amenities vary by location, facility, and unit. “Climate-controlled” and related terms (such as air-conditioned, heated, or humidistat-equipped) describe storage spaces designed to help maintain more consistent temperature or humidity levels compared to non-climate-controlled units. Public Storage does not guarantee temperature or humidity ranges. Availability, features, and unit types may differ by location, facility, and unit. Please confirm with your facility whether specific climate-controlled features are available on units at that location.