The Ultimate Self-Care Project
The holidays are over. You survived the cooking, the shopping, and the family gatherings. Now, it is time for you. There is no better way to ring in the New Year than with a long, hot soak in the tub.
A DIY bath caddy tray transforms a standard bathtub into a luxury spa experience. It holds your book, your tablet, a candle, and yes a glass of wine. While store-bought versions cost $50+, you can build a custom one from a single board of scrap wood for under $10.
Phase 1: Choosing the Right Wood
Because this project lives in a humid environment, wood choice matters.
- The Best: Cedar or Teak. They naturally resist rot and water damage.
- The Budget: Pine or Poplar. These work fine, but you must seal them perfectly (see Phase 4).
- Sizing: Measure the width of your tub. Add 2 inches to ensure the DIY bath caddy tray sits securely on the edges without slipping in.
Phase 2: Customizing the Features
Don’t just make a flat plank. Add features that hold your items safe.
- The Tablet Groove: Use a router or a table saw to cut a shallow groove down the middle. This holds an iPad or Kindle upright.
- The Wine Slot: Drill a hole, then cut a slot leading to the edge. This allows you to slide a wine glass stem in securely so it can’t tip over.
- The Tea Light: Use a large spade bit to drill a shallow recession for a tea light candle.
Phase 3: The “Stop-Block” Safety
This is the most important step for a DIY bath caddy tray.
- The Risk: If you bump the tray, it could slide into the water.
- The Fix: Screw two small strips of wood underneath the tray, just inside the inner rim of the bathtub.
- Function: These “cleats” prevent the tray from sliding left or right. It locks the tray in place.
Phase 4: Waterproofing (Crucial Step)
Steam will destroy raw wood.
- The Product: Use Spar Urethane. This is “Marine Grade” varnish used for boats.
- Application: Apply at least 3 coats. Don’t forget the bottom!
- Hardware: Add two sleek Gold Cabinet Handles on top for easy lifting.
PRO TIP: Add Luxury Comfort
A tray handles your stuff, but what about your neck?
To complete the spa experience, pair your new wooden tray with a Bath Pillow . It sticks to the tub and prevents neck strain, allowing you to read for hours.
For more inspiration on spa bathrooms, check out this gallery from House Beautiful.
FAQ: Bath Tray Care
Q: Does a DIY bath caddy tray get moldy?
A: Only if you don’t seal it. If you use Spar Urethane, water will bead up and roll off. Wipe it dry after every use to extend its life.
Q: How thick should the wood be?
A: Use a board at least 3/4 inch thick (standard “1-by” lumber). Anything thinner might bow under the weight of a heavy book or tablet.
Q: Can I stain the wood?
A: Yes! Apply your stain before the waterproof sealer. Dark Walnut looks fantastic against a white porcelain tub.
