Have you ever been excited to share a story over dinner with family or friends, only to be interrupted again and again by someone asking for the salt, the ketchup, or the butter? We’ve all been there. Just when the conversation gets good, someone needs something passed across the table.
That is where a Lazy Susan makes all the difference. It allows everyone to reach what they need without interrupting the moment. You get to stay in the conversation while sharing food and creating memories with the people around you.
So, what exactly is a Lazy Susan? In this guide, we will discuss what it is, how it works, where it can be used, and why every home can benefit from having one.
Lazy Susan Meaning and Origins
A Lazy Susan is simply a rotating tray designed to make items more accessible. With a quick spin, it brings food, condiments, spices, or other supplies within easy reach. You will find it on dining tables, inside kitchen cabinets, on countertops, and even in pantries.
While the concept seems modern, the idea of a rotating server dates back centuries. In 18th-century England, upper-class households used small revolving serving trays known as dumbwaiters. These were placed on dining tables to reduce dependence on household staff during meals.
The term Lazy Susan began appearing in American publications in the early part of the 20th century. Gradually, the name gained commercial traction when it was advertised in a popular magazine as the cleverest waitress in the world.
The reason for the name Lazy Susan itself is still debated. Some believe “Susan” was simply a generic name for a servant, and the adjective “lazy” seems to refer to the idea that the device did the work of passing items, so no one at the table had to. Others think it was a marketing invention meant to make the product more relatable and appealing to middle-class households transitioning away from domestic help.
Over time, the device has been referred to by various names, such as revolving tray or turntable server, but the name that has stuck to date is "Lazy Susan." Despite the playful name, the Lazy Susan is a practical tool. Whether it's organizing jars in a pantry or helping pass sauces across a crowded table, it's designed to save time, reduce clutter, and make shared access easier.
How Does a Lazy Susan Work?
A Lazy Susan works through a simple rotating mechanism. At its base is a ring of ball bearings or swivel that allows the top platform to spin easily. They allow the tray to spin in a full circle, even when it is holding heavy items. You do not need to lift things, with just a gentle push, and it spins everything into reach.
On dining tables, Lazy Susans sit directly on the surface and rotate with a simple push. The platform stays stable while turning, offering a hands-free way to share items during meals. It is beneficial for larger tables or group settings where passing dishes around can be cumbersome.
In kitchen cabinets, especially the hard-to-reach corners, the device becomes more functional. These cabinet Lazy Susans are often mounted to a center post that is attached to the cabinet’s base or shelves. The trays are fixed, adjustable in height, and rotate around a post to bring items stored in the back right up to the front.
What makes the Lazy Susan so effective is not just that it spins, but that it turns spaces that look messy into organized zones.
Different Types of Lazy Susans
Traditionally, Lazy Susans are circular, but modern designs come in different shapes and forms to suit various table setups and cabinet layouts. Below are some common designs you will find:
1. Long Expandable Turntables
Most Lazy Susans are built with round tables in mind, but that may not always work for rectangular or oblong setups. Long expandable Lazy Susans solve this problem by offering a shape that fits rectangular tables better and ensures everyone, regardless of their seating position, can easily reach shared items.
The Lazy Susan Revolution reimagines the traditional design with long, expandable turntables designed specifically for modern dining tables. They are convenient for large family meals, group dinners, and holidays where passing plates becomes tedious quickly.
2. Full Circle or Round
Round Lazy Susans spin evenly in all directions and work well on dining tables, countertops, and inside cabinets. They are ideal for organizing spices, condiments, oils, and shared dishes during meals. Larger models can even support hot pots or serving trays.
3. Kidney Shape
These Lazy Susans are designed to fit inside L-shaped corner cabinets that are commonly found in many kitchens. Their curved profile allows them to rotate smoothly within tight corners while maximizing space. Most feature two tiers and are mounted to a central post, making them helpful for storing bulkier kitchen items, such as pans or mixing bowls.
4. D-Shape
D-shaped Lazy Susans are a great solution for wall cabinets or any space where one side needs to rest flat against the back. The flat edge of the "D" lines fits neatly along the back of the cabinet, while the curved front spins to bring items forward.
5. Half Round
Half-round Lazy Susans are designed for tricky spaces where full rotation is not possible. Instead of turning in place, these trays are usually attached to the cabinet door and swing out as you open it. Then, they pivot slightly to let you grab what you need.
What is a Lazy Susan Cabinet?
A Lazy Susan cabinet is a type of kitchen cabinet designed with a rotating tray inside, which makes it easier to access items stored deep in the corners. These cabinets are especially common in lower base corners or upper wall corners, where space is often hard to reach. Instead of stretching into the back or pulling everything out to find one thing, you simply turn the tray and bring the items to you.
Most Lazy Susan cabinets are built into the kitchen layout and spin either on a central pole or on a shelf using bearings. Some versions have a single full-round tray, while others feature kidney or pie-cut shapes that fit neatly behind hinged doors. The cabinet door may even be attached directly to the turntable, so when you pull it open, the entire unit rotates with it.
Lazy Susan cabinets are great for storing pots, pans, mixing bowls, dry goods, or other kitchen tools. Apart from their kitchen applications, the Lazy Susan base corner cabinet can also be used in utility or cleaning supply areas, wherever deep corner storage becomes challenging to manage.
What is a Lazy Susan Used For?
Too often, items when we need them get pushed to the back of shelves or hidden behind clutter in cabinets. A Lazy Susan fixes this issue by rotating and bringing items closer to reach. Here are some common uses of a Lazy Susan:
Dining Uses
A Lazy Susan on the table makes group meals easier to manage. Instead of passing food, sauces, desserts, or condiments around and interrupting the flow of conversation, everyone can simply spin and serve themselves.
During holidays or large family gatherings, Lazy Susans are even more helpful. You can load it with multiple dishes, dips, or toppings and let guests serve themselves without needing to get up or ask for help.
Traditional round Lazy Susans work well for circular tables but may not be as effective on longer ones. Hence, the need for the Lazy Susan Revolution. They are fit for longer tables and spin effectively, so everyone at the table can serve themselves without interrupting the gist.
Lazy Susan Kitchen Applications
In the kitchen, Lazy Susans are most often found in cabinets, cupboards, or pantries. They are perfect for organizing items such as spices, oils, canned goods, baking supplies, and snacks. Instead of rummaging through deep shelves or knocking things over to reach what you need, you just spin and grab.
You can also place them on countertops or in kitchen islands to store frequently used ingredients, making them easily accessible. As a general rule, place taller or heavier items in the center and smaller ones around the edges; this helps keep things balanced and makes them easy to find.
Other Places You Can Use a Lazy Susan
- Office: You can use a Lazy Susan to organize your stationery, paper clips, sticky notes, and other small items so your workspace stays neat and accessible.
- Bathroom: They are great for storing beauty products, skincare, and medications, especially in tight spaces like under the sink or inside cabinets.
- Outdoors: During picnics or BBQs, you can use a Lazy Susan to hold napkins, condiments, and cutlery, so your guests can serve themselves easily.
-
Refrigerators: A small Lazy Susan helps you keep condiments, sauces, or leftovers from getting lost at the back. With just a spin, you can easily grab what you need.
Choosing the Right Lazy Susan for Your Space
Not all Lazy Susans are built the same, and picking the right one depends on where and how you plan to use it. Whether it is for storing spices in a cabinet or serving dishes at the dinner table, the quality and design must be carefully considered to make the best choice.
Materials to Consider
Choosing the right Lazy Susan starts with understanding what materials work best for your space and needs.
Wood
If you're looking for a long-lasting and visually appealing option for your dining table or kitchen, solid wood is a great choice. It is sturdy, attractive, and works well for serving dry foods or snacks. You can also opt for bamboo Lazy Susans if you prefer eco-friendly materials.
Lazy Susans made of plywood provide budget-friendly options, and they are well-suited for pantry storage or kitchen use. However, plywood may not hold up as well as solid wood over time.
Metal
Metal Lazy Susans are durable, practical, and suitable for heavy-duty kitchen use. They are sturdy and good for holding heavier pantry items or condiments. Most metals are made of stainless steel, so you do not need to worry about rust or spills.
Plastic
Plastic turntables are more affordable and easier to clean, so they are great for bathrooms, kids’ areas, or kitchen setups. Compared to other Lazy Susans, they might not hold heavy jars or items well and may be prone to breakage.
Glass
Glass turntables add beauty and elegance to your events or dinner parties, but they are breakable and may not be ideal for daily use. However, modern Lazy Susan glasswares are made of tempered glass to improve durability. They are safer than regular glass and less likely to shatter into sharp shards.
Mixed Materials
Some Lazy Susans combine materials, such as a wood base with a metal spinner or a plastic turntable with a silicone grip. These combos are designed to give you durability and smooth movement without compromising style.
Features to Consider
Here are some essential features that make a Lazy Susan right for your space:
Non-Slip Surface
What good is organizing your items with a Lazy Susan if they slide off every time you spin it? No matter how sleek or stylish it looks, a Lazy Susan is not practical without a non-slip surface. This feature keeps your jars, bottles, and containers steady, especially during quick turns or busy meals.
Whether it's for your kitchen, dining table, or bathroom counter, always opt for a Lazy Susan with a grippy surface that keeps items in place.
Heat Resistance
If you require serving food straight from the oven, especially during dinner parties or family feasts, consider a Lazy Susan built with heat-resistant materials. Modern designs, such as the Lazy Susan Revolution's expandable turntables, feature silicone surfaces that allow you to serve food straight from the oven without damaging the surface.
Ease of Setup
No one wants a Lazy Susan that turns into a full-blown project to assemble. If it comes in multiple parts or tiers, it should be easy to set up quickly, no manual or tool required. The Lazy Susan Revolution takes the stress out of setup with a no-tools-required design. You can unpack it and have it ready on the table in minutes for use.
Smooth Rotation
A Lazy Susan should spin with ease, whether it is holding a few condiments or a full spread of dishes. Look for models with high-quality ball bearings or gliding wheels that allow for steady and silent motion even under weight.
How to Measure a Lazy Susan
Getting the size right is crucial to ensuring your Lazy Susan fits and functions properly, whether it's being installed in a cabinet or placed on your table.
For Cabinet Lazy Susans
- Use a tape measure to check the width and depth of your cabinet, especially if it is a corner cabinet.
- Account for door clearance so the Lazy Susan will not hit the cabinet doors or hinges when spinning.
- D-shaped, kidney, or full-round Lazy Susans each fit different cabinet layouts, so match the shape to your cabinet’s interior.
For Tabletop or Countertop Use
- Measure your table surface: Determine how much space you want the Lazy Susan to occupy, leaving enough room for plates, drinks, or centrepieces.
- Pick a size that matches your use: A 12- to 16-inch model works well for small groups, but if you're serving a large crowd or using a long table, consider expandable designs like the Lazy Susan Revolution.
- Consider storage: If you plan to store it when not in use, make sure it fits your shelf or cabinet space.
How to Organize a Lazy Susan
It is one thing to have a tool that makes organization easier; it is another thing to know how to use it well. A Lazy Susan can be a game-changer if you set it up with a purpose. Here are a few Lazy Susan organization ideas for you:
Tips for Keeping Items in Place
- Use a non-slip liner: Non-slip liners help prevent jars, bottles, or containers from sliding as the tray rotates.
- Group items with bins or baskets: Use small open containers to keep similar items together and stop them from falling over.
- Choose a tray with raised edges: Trays with raised edges are especially helpful for taller items, as they prevent them from tipping over when the Lazy Susan rotates.
- Avoid overloading your Lazy Susan: Do not overload your Lazy Susan beyond its holding capacity. Also, place heavier or larger items near the center and lighter ones toward the edge to maintain balance.
-
Use turntables with built-in dividers: Turntables with dividers elevate your organizational skills to the next level. These compartments not only keep your items in place but also keep them neat and upright.
Ideas for Lazy Susan Decor During Gatherings
For gatherings, using a Lazy Susan is a smart way to organize and display items while keeping the table neat and inviting. Here are some creative ways you can style and use it to enhance both function and presentation:
- Serve bite-sized foods: Place snacks, fruit, desserts, or appetizers in small dishes and arrange them evenly around the tray.
- Set up a toppings bar: Whether for burgers, tacos, or ice cream, organize sauces, dips, or garnishes so everyone can help themselves with a quick spin.
- Use a Lazy Susan as a stylish centerpiece: You can use a turntable to display candles, small plants, or a decorative bowl. It gives the table some personality and beauty without occupying too much space.
- Match the theme: Use colored plates or napkins that match the occasion to add sophistication to the table. You can choose bright colors for birthdays or warm tones for holiday meals.
-
Dessert station: Guests can use your turntable to rotate through sweets, such as cookies, cupcakes, or toppings, for a build-your-own dessert bar. You can also take it up a notch by adding a small bowl for extras, such as berries or sprinkles.
-
Conversation tray: Place a bowl of fun questions or trivia prompts in the middle of your Lazy Susan. It's a simple way to break the ice and encourage interaction, especially among guests who are new to each other.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where can I buy a Lazy Susan?
You can find Lazy Susans at home stores and online retailers like Amazon, ranging from as low as $10 for basic plastic trays to $50 and up for more advanced or decorative pieces.
2. Can you use a Lazy Susan outdoors?
Lazy Susans are great for outdoor use, especially at barbecues or patio dinners. Choose one made with weather-resistant materials, such as treated wood, coated metal, or sturdy plastic, so that it can withstand sunlight, moisture, and a little mess.
3. Do Lazy Susans only work on round tables?
No, Lazy Susans are not limited to round tables. While traditional Lazy Susans were made for round tables, they also work well on rectangular and square tables. Modern designs, such as long, expandable Lazy Susans, can complement oblong or rectangular tables.
Final Thoughts
The Lazy Susan has come a long way from being just a cabinet fixture. Today, it is a table essential, a kitchen organizer, and a practical way to make shared spaces more functional. What started as a simple spinning tray has evolved into something much more versatile. No matter your table shape, gathering style, or event setup, there’s a Lazy Susan on the market to cater to your needs.
The Lazy Susan Revolution is a much-needed upgrade to the traditional round turntable. Designed for oblong or rectangular tables, it rotates smoothly, expands to fit more guests, and adds ease to everyday meals, parties, and family-style dining.
Love what you read? Take a look at The Lazy Susan Revolution and see what makes it different.