Bamboo trays are more than just serving tools. They bring a natural charm to any setting, whether it’s a cozy home, a stylish hotel, or a lively restaurant. Known for being lightweight, strong, and eco-friendly, bamboo trays have become a favorite choice around the world. But not all bamboo trays are the same. They come in many shapes, sizes, and designs—each made for different purposes. In this post, we’ll explore the most common types of bamboo trays and how they are used in daily life and business settings.
1. Round Bamboo Trays
Description: Round bamboo trays are circular and often come with raised edges. They may feature a flat surface or a slightly concave base.
Uses:
- Home Decor: Round trays are perfect for holding candles, small potted plants, or as a centerpiece on a dining table.
- Serving Snacks: Great for serving cookies, fruits, or cheese at home or in a hotel lounge.
- Gift Sets: Often used as a base in spa or tea gift sets.
Why Choose It: The round shape adds softness to a space. It’s ideal when symmetry and balance are desired.
2. Rectangular Bamboo Trays
Description: Rectangular trays are among the most popular shapes. They come in many lengths and depths and often include handles.
Uses:
- Room Service: Widely used in hotels for serving meals, coffee, or breakfast-in-bed.
- Retail Display: Stores use them to showcase products like skincare items or accessories.
- Kitchen Use: Handy for organizing jars, spices, or cutlery.
Why Choose It: The shape makes it easy to organize and carry several items at once. It also stacks well.
3. Square Bamboo Trays
Description: These trays have equal sides and usually feature straight, clean lines. They may be shallow or deep.
Uses:
- Office Settings: Perfect for storing small office items like clips, pens, or sticky notes.
- Cafes and Restaurants: Used to present drinks, pastries, or desserts in a modern way.
- Gift Packaging: Excellent for holding smaller gift items with a minimalist look.
Why Choose It: Square trays are practical and fit neatly into tight spaces like drawers or display shelves.
4. Bamboo Trays with Handles
Description: These trays include built-in or attached handles made of bamboo, rope, or metal. The handles add functionality and a rustic look.
Uses:
- Catering Events: Used by waiters to carry drinks or dishes safely.
- Home Serving: Ideal for serving tea, coffee, or snacks without spills.
- Hospitality Suites: Common in hotel rooms for organizing welcome drinks or amenities.
Why Choose It: Handles make carrying safer and easier, especially when the tray is full or heavy.
5. Deep Bamboo Trays
Description: These trays have higher sides, making them look more like shallow baskets or boxes.
Uses:
- Storage: Useful for storing towels, napkins, or magazines.
- Food Presentation: Can hold bread rolls, fruit assortments, or buffet items.
- Gift Hampers: Great for bundling many items together in one attractive package.
Why Choose It: The deeper design prevents items from sliding out. It also adds visual depth when used for display.
6. Flat Bamboo Trays
Description: Flat trays have little to no raised edges. They focus on surface space rather than containment.
Uses:
- Display Boards: Used in bakeries or stores to showcase baked goods or jewelry.
- Table Settings: Function as placemats or presentation bases under bowls and plates.
- Serving Boards: Present sushi, cheese, or appetizers in a clean, modern style.
Why Choose It: Flat trays are sleek and minimal. They work well when you want the focus to be on the items, not the tray.
7. Lidded Bamboo Trays
Description: These trays come with matching bamboo lids, either hinged or removable. Some may also include compartments inside.
Uses:
- Food Storage: Great for keeping baked goods fresh.
- Gift Packaging: Useful for high-end or premium gift sets.
- Tea Ceremony: Often used in traditional Asian tea presentations.
Why Choose It: Lids add both function and elegance. They protect the contents and give a sense of mystery or surprise.
Where Bamboo Trays Are Used
Bamboo trays aren’t just versatile in shape and size. They’re also used in many places:
- Homes: For serving, organizing, decorating, and gifting.
- Hotels: In-room dining, welcome sets, spa accessories.
- Restaurants and Cafes: Food and drink service, menu holders.
- Retail Stores: Product display and gift packaging.
- Events: Wedding decor, catering, giveaways.
Benefits of Using Bamboo Trays
- Eco-Friendly: Bamboo grows quickly and is biodegradable.
- Lightweight but Strong: Easy to carry without sacrificing durability.
- Aesthetic: Adds a natural and warm look to any environment.
- Customizable: Can be stained, painted, engraved, or packaged to match your brand.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right type of bamboo tray depends on where and how you plan to use it. Whether you’re running a hotel, opening a gift shop, or just want to make your home more organized, there’s a bamboo tray made just for that. With so many styles to pick from, they are more than just tools—they are design elements that enhance the experience.
Looking to source bamboo trays for your business? At Bamboo Wood Art, we offer custom, wholesale, and private label bamboo tray solutions for brands around the world.
Explore our range: Bamboo Tray Manufacturer →






