5 Stunning DIY Boot Tray Ideas

 The Elegant Mud Solution

Winter brings snow, rain, and inevitably, mud. Protecting your floors is essential, but standard rubber mats are often ugly and industrial. A custom DIY boot tray is the perfect solution to keep your entryway clean without sacrificing style.

Whether you live in a farmhouse or a modern apartment, upgrading your shoe storage is a quick afternoon project. In this guide, we explore 5 creative ways to build a DIY boot tray that handles the mess while looking beautiful.

1. The “River Rock” Drainage Tray

The spa-like aesthetic.

This is the most popular DIY boot tray on Pinterest because it allows snow to melt and drain through the stones, keeping the boots dry.

• The Base: Use a large, deep baking sheet or a sturdy plastic serving tray.
• The Fill: Fill it to the brim with smooth River Rocks.
• Why it works: The stones hide the dirt and water. To clean it, simply take the tray outside and hose the stones down.

2. The Rustic Wood Frame

Best for: Farmhouse decor.

If you have a plastic tray that works but looks cheap, hide it.

• The Build: Cut 1×3 scrap wood to create a simple frame that fits snuggly around your existing rubber mat.
• The Finish: Stain the wood a dark walnut and add two metal handles on the sides.
• The Result: A custom DIY boot tray that looks like a high-end furniture piece.

3. The Copper Sheet Tray

Best for: Modern/Industrial homes.

Copper is naturally antimicrobial and looks stunning against wood floors.

• The Material: You don’t need solid copper (too expensive). Use a galvanized steel sheet.
• The Hack: Spray paint it with Metallic Copper Spray Paint and seal it with a clear coat.
• Assembly: Bend the edges up or frame it with light wood strips.

4. The Rolling “Under-Bench” Crate

Best for: Small entryways.

If you hate tripping over shoes, hide this DIY boot tray under a bench.

• The Build: Use a shallow wooden crate or build a box from plywood.
• The Secret: Attach four Swivel Caster Wheels to the bottom.
• Usage: Roll it out to put boots away, then kick it back under the bench. It keeps the visual clutter completely hidden.

5. The Repurposed Picture Frame

The budget-friendly upcycle.

Have an old, large picture frame? Turn it into a tray.

• The Hack: Remove the glass. Replace the backing with a piece of waterproof vinyl tile or a painted plywood board.
• Protection: Add felt pads to the bottom to protect your floor.
• Style: Paint the frame gold or black for a chic DIY boot tray.

PRO TIP: Waterproofing is Key

A DIY boot tray faces constant moisture. If you are using wood, you cannot skip the sealing step.

• The Product: Apply 3 coats of Minwax Polycrylic.
• Why? Unlike Polyurethane, Polycrylic doesn’t yellow over time and provides a rock-hard, water-resistant finish that prevents the wood from warping or rotting under wet boots.

FAQ: Entryway Organization