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Best Paint Trays of 2026

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Howard Chester

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Paint trays are an essential tool for any painting project, whether it's a small touch-up or a large-scale renovation. They come in different sizes and materials, from plastic to metal, and can hold various amounts of paint. Some paint trays have ridges or compartments to help distribute the paint evenly on the brush or roller. Others have disposable liners or covers to make cleanup quick and easy. Paint trays are a convenient way to keep the paint contained and accessible, making the painting process more efficient and less messy.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Paint Trays

#TOP 1

Bates- Paint Tray Liner, 9 Inch, 10 Pack

Bates- Paint Tray Liner, 9 Inch, 10 Pack Cover

Bates Choice- Paint Tray Liner, White Paint Pans Trays, Pan Liners, 9 Inch, 10 pcs

Bates Paint Tray Liner is a convenient and practical tool for house painting. With its form-fitting design that resists cracking, it helps to prolong the life of your paint tray, making it a reliable choice for long-term use. The eye-catching color adds a stylish touch to your collection of painting supplies. Switching between paint colors is a breeze with these disposable paint tray liners, saving you time and ensuring a faster job. After painting, there's no need to clean up the tray - simply wipe out the excess paint and lift out the liner. With Bates Paint Tray Liner, you can enjoy a hassle-free painting experience.

9.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy cleanup and disposal
  • Good value for money
  • Fits standard 9" rollers
  • Reduces paint tray cleaning
  • Sturdy plastic construction

What We Don't Like

  • Slightly short for some trays
  • Not very thick or rigid

What Customers Say

"I'll tell you, these paint tray liners are a real time-saver—makes my painting projects so much easier. They fit my tray just right, and the sturdy plastic means no mess when switching paint colors. The ribbed surface helps spread paint evenly, and with ten in the pack, I can tackle big jobs without a second thought. Cleanup is a breeze—just toss the liner when you’re done. Honestly, this is the best paint supply I’ve found in ages!"

"Whenever I have a big painting project, I always grab a pack or two of these. They're a good thickness when used with a metal paint tray and hold up really well. The price point is great for the quality and convenience you get."

"These liners are a cheap and convenient way to save on cleanup time. They’re a bit thin and flexible, and slightly short for my tray, but they fit 9-inch rollers just fine. For the price, I don’t mind tossing them after each painting session."

#TOP 2

Bates 9-Inch Paint Tray Set

Bates 9-Inch Paint Tray Set Cover

Bates- Paint Tray Set, 9 Inch, 12 pcs, 1x 9 Inch Paint Roller Tray, 10x Disposable Tray Liners & 1x Roller Frame

The Bates Paint Tray Set offers a complete painting solution with its 12-piece collection, including a 9-inch tray, ten disposable liners, and a sturdy roller frame. This spacious tray can hold plenty of paint, allowing you to cover large areas efficiently. The disposable liners make cleanup a breeze, protecting the tray from paint spills. Plus, the roller frame is designed for comfort, giving you excellent control for achieving professional-quality results on any surface. This set is perfect for anyone looking to simplify their painting projects.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Sturdy construction
  • Easy cleanup
  • Great value
  • High-quality liners
  • Fits most 9-inch rollers

What We Don't Like

  • Tray is plastic, not metal

What Customers Say

"I was impressed by the sturdiness and light weight of these paint trays. They held paint perfectly without any spills or bending, and cleanup was a breeze. For both quick touch-ups and bigger projects, it’s a great value. I’ll definitely be purchasing more in the future."

"At this price, I honestly didn’t expect such good quality—both the tray and the roller handle feel well made and robust. As long as you clean it properly, I can see this set lasting through several projects."

"I was pleasantly surprised by how strong the liners are and the overall good quality of the tray. The set arrived quickly and made painting much easier than I expected."

#TOP 3

Miracle Sealants Tile & Stone Sealer Applicator

Miracle Sealants Tile & Stone Sealer Applicator Cover

Miracle Sealants Sealer Applicator & Tray for Tile, Stone & Grout Sealers

The Miracle Sealants Sealer Tray is designed to make applying tile, stone, and grout sealers simple and efficient. Its user-friendly design helps you easily manage how much sealer you apply, preventing waste and mess. This tray is disposable, so you can save time on cleanup after your project. Plus, it's affordable, making it a great choice for small jobs or quick touch-ups. Whether you're sealing a few tiles or refreshing your grout, this tray offers a practical and cost-effective solution to help you get the job done smoothly and neatly.

9.6
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy application process
  • Reusable with simple cleaning
  • Saves sealer quantity
  • Professional finish results
  • Effective dirt and stain protection

What We Don't Like

  • Durability could be improved
  • Packaging tray is flimsy

What Customers Say

"I found this applicator made sealing my granite countertops much easier and more efficient compared to using a brush. It helped me use about a third less sealer, and I could keep the sealer moist long enough for a proper finish. Following the instructions with BulletProof sealer worked great—I’m very happy with the results."

"After sealing my entryway tile with this, I noticed it really protected my grout and kept dirt away for over a year. I saved a lot by doing it myself instead of hiring a pro. It's clear where I stopped, so I'll definitely keep using it! Highly recommend before paying someone else."

"This applicator is a must-have for Miracle Sealants products, making application much simpler and helping achieve a professional-quality finish. The foam fits perfectly in the tray and is easy to clean. Well worth having for any sealing job."

#TOP 4

Bates Choice 4 Inch Paint Tray Set 22 pcs

Bates Choice 4 Inch Paint Tray Set 22 pcs Cover

Bates- 4 Inch Paint Tray Set, 22 pcs, 1x 4 Inch Paint Roller Tray, 20x Disposable Plastic Liners & 1x Roller Frame

The Bates 4 Inch Paint Tray is a handy set that helps you tackle small painting jobs with ease. It includes a durable tray, a sturdy roller frame, and 20 disposable liners, so you can switch colors quickly without the mess. The tray’s compact size is perfect for detailed work like trim, doors, or cabinets, giving you better control. Made from lightweight, high-quality plastic, the tray and liners are easy to clean or toss, saving you time and effort during and after your project.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Sturdy construction
  • Cost effective kit
  • Includes disposable tray liners
  • Convenient for small projects
  • Easy cleanup

What We Don't Like

  • Limited paint capacity

What Customers Say

"I really like how sturdy this kit is and that it comes with extra disposable liners. It’s definitely cost effective and I don’t have to worry about any spills. Just a really nice, practical product overall!"

"As someone who refinishes furniture, these pans are a lifesaver for multi-day or multi-color projects. The small size keeps paint from drying out too quickly, and they’re thicker than most disposable pans so they don’t collapse. Wrapping them up between uses works great for me."

"Great kit for the price! The heavyweight quality surprised me, and it’s a much better deal than what my local hardware store offers. Glad I made this purchase."

#TOP 5

BLACK+DECKER Paint Tray Liner 10 Pack

BLACK+DECKER Paint Tray Liner 10 Pack Cover

Black+Decker Paint Tray Liner - 10 Pack: Convenient Disposable Liners for Easy Cleanup - Compatible with Standard Paint Trays - Ideal for DIY Projects and Professional Painting Jobs

The BLACK+DECKER Tray Liners come in a pack of ten, making your painting cleanup much easier by letting you simply toss the liners after use. This saves you from the hassle of scrubbing paint trays. They are designed to fit most standard paint trays snugly, so you don’t have to worry about poor fit or spills. Whether you are working on a DIY project at home or doing professional painting, these liners help keep your workspace tidy and streamline the whole process. They are a handy tool to make painting less messy and more efficient.

9.3
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Convenient disposable liner
  • Fits standard metal trays
  • Eliminates washing trays
  • Saves cleanup time

What We Don't Like

  • Size may not match description
  • Material feels somewhat cheap

What Customers Say

"I purchased these because they were supposed to fit my paint tray, but the actual size was smaller than the diagram stated. Now I still have to go to the store for liners. It's not about the money, but the principle, and I wish Amazon would check these things better."

"These liners work as intended—they line the metal tray, make cleanup a breeze, and then you just toss them. Very practical for quick jobs."

#TOP 6

Bates Choice 4 Inch Paint Tray Set

Bates Choice 4 Inch Paint Tray Set Cover

Bates- 4 Inch Paint Tray Set, 22 pcs, 1x 4 Inch Paint Roller Tray, 20x Disposable Plastic Liners & 1x Roller Frame, Black & Blue

The Bates 4 Inch Paint Set includes everything you need for a smooth painting job. It comes with a 4-inch tray that’s perfect for small projects or touch-ups, giving you better control and less mess. The set also features 20 disposable plastic liners that make cleanup fast and easy, so you won’t have to worry about leftover paint. Plus, the roller frame is designed to help you apply paint evenly and smoothly. Its compact size makes it easy to handle and store, making this set a great choice whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned painter.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Affordable price
  • Convenient disposable trays
  • Easy to use
  • Good roller performance
  • Compact tray design

What We Don't Like

  • Not super sturdy

What Customers Say

"I'm really happy I found these—the price is much lower than local stores, and the quality is perfect. Everything worked exactly as I needed."

"This set is just what I needed! The roller glides smoothly without sticking, and those trays are incredibly handy for my painting projects."

"I like the sturdy handle and the option for disposable trays. I use them often and they're roomy enough to keep paint fresh between coats."

#TOP 7

Bates Choice 9 Inch Paint Tray 2-Pack

Bates Choice 9 Inch Paint Tray 2-Pack Cover

Bates- 9 Inch Paint Tray, 2 Pack, Black Plastic Paint Roller Tray 9 Inch, Deep Capacity, Textured Ridge

The Bates 9 Inch Paint Trays come in a convenient two-pack, making it easy for you to handle multiple painting tasks or switch colors without hassle. Made from sturdy, high-quality plastic, these trays are built to last, so you can rely on them for many projects. Each tray is generously sized at 11 by 14.5 inches, giving your roller plenty of room to pick up paint efficiently. Plus, the textured grid design helps spread paint evenly on your roller, which means less drips and smoother coverage for your walls or furniture. These features make painting simpler and more enjoyable.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Convenient alternative to hardware stores
  • Reusable with trash bag method
  • Works well with latex paint
  • Fits brush size and sturdy
  • Useful for multiple tasks

What Customers Say

"These trays are a lifesaver—no need to run to a big box store. They're exactly what I needed for my painting project."

"I love that I can cover the tray with a trash bag to keep cleanup easy and even reuse leftover paint. Super practical!"

"I ended up with extras, but it worked out—they're great for painting and surprisingly handy for organizing garage projects too."

#TOP 8

Bates Choice 6 Inch Paint Roller Tray Kit

Bates Choice 6 Inch Paint Roller Tray Kit Cover

Bates- 6 Inch Paint Roller Tray Set, 12 pcs, 6 Inch Paint Tray Kit, 1x Black Plastic Paint Tray, 10x Transparent Liners & 1x 4 Roller Frame

The Bates 6 Inch Paint Kit is designed to make your painting projects easier and more efficient. It comes with a sturdy plastic paint tray that holds your paint securely and cleans up quickly, saving you time and effort. The kit includes a 4-inch roller frame, perfect for handling smaller areas with smooth and even paint coverage. You'll also get 10 clear tray liners, which let you switch colors or finish jobs without the hassle of scrubbing the tray. Whether you're a DIYer or a pro, this set gives you reliable tools that streamline your work and cleanup.

9.1
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Sturdy trays and roller
  • Easy to clean
  • Perfect for small jobs
  • Good price value
  • Convenient disposable liners

What We Don't Like

  • Occasional missing tray in order

What Customers Say

"I found the trays and roller to be really sturdy and excellent for the price. This product turned out to be a great value!"

"I use this set as a glue tray for my cutting board business and it works much better than the small silicone rollers I used before. Cleanup is much simpler now."

"The size of these trays is just right for smaller projects, and I like being able to just throw away the liner after use. My order didn’t include the tray, but since I already had one, it wasn’t a big problem and I could use the liners and roller right away."

#TOP 9

KATA 36pcs Painting Pyramid Stands

  • KATA
  • KT-P32S
  • 36pc
  • Mini
KATA 36pcs Painting Pyramid Stands Cover

KATA Painters Pyramid Stands: 36pcs Painting Pyramids Stands for Cabinet Doors Paint & Pouring - Mini Triangle Cone Paint Tripods for Canvas Risers Support - Art DIY Woodworking Tools Accessories

The KATA Painting Pyramid Stands come in a set of 36 mini pyramid-shaped cones that help you paint or stain your projects with ease. These stands keep your items elevated, so you can work on both sides without worrying about sticking. They are perfect for various uses, including painting cabinet doors, furniture staining, and acrylic paint pouring, making your creative projects cleaner and more manageable. The stands are designed to nest together for simple storage and transport, saving you space when not in use. Plus, their lockable design ensures stability by securely connecting the stands to your work surface or to each other for added support and flexibility.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Stable support
  • Large quantity per pack
  • Affordable price
  • Easy to clean
  • Quick shipping

What We Don't Like

  • Minor sliding on points
  • May leave small marks

What Customers Say

"I used these for repainting all my kitchen doors and drawer faces, and they truly made the job easier. The elevation and stability were perfect, and having so many in one pack meant I never ran out. Plus, the price was great and delivery was fast. I’d definitely recommend these to anyone tackling a painting project!"

"These stands have really helped me with staining and poly-coating cabinet drawers. They’re a fantastic alternative to scrap wood, easy to clean, and the pack size is generous. Just make sure your first side is dry before flipping, or you might get a few marks. Overall, I’ll never go back to using scrap lumber again."

"What a simple yet brilliant idea! I was able to stain both sides of my wood pieces quickly and for a fraction of the cost compared to local stores. Delivery was super fast, so my project stayed on schedule. I’m really happy I found these."

#TOP 10

Bates Choice 9 Inch Paint Tray Liners Set

Bates Choice 9 Inch Paint Tray Liners Set Cover

Bates 9 Inch Paint Tray Liners - 21 pcs, One Metal Tray with 20 Plastic Liners

The Bates Choice Paint Tray Set includes a sturdy metal tray that gives you a reliable base for your painting projects, preventing spills and wobbling. It comes with 20 disposable liners, which make cleaning up a breeze—just toss them when you're done, saving you time and effort. The liners and tray have a textured surface that helps spread paint evenly on your roller, so you get smooth, consistent coverage every time. Designed to fit 9-inch rollers perfectly, this set is a practical choice whether you’re a professional or a DIYer looking to make your painting tasks easier and more efficient.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Good value for money
  • Thicker than store alternatives
  • Fits standard paint trays
  • Easy cleanup
  • Reusable for multiple uses

What We Don't Like

  • A bit thin
  • Metal tray less sturdy

What Customers Say

"These liners are thicker and more affordable than what I’ve found at Home Depot. Absolutely worth the money—I’d recommend them to anyone needing a good supply for painting projects."

"I found these paint tray liners to be a great value. They fit my trays perfectly, and cleanup is a breeze. They aren’t the heaviest duty, but for the price and quantity, it’s an excellent deal."

"For the price and convenience, these liners are just what I needed. They’re not flimsy like some others I’ve tried and I was able to reuse several times before tossing them. At this cost, replacing them is no issue."

Paint Trays Comparison Table

#TOP 1 Bates- Paint Tray Liner, 9 Inch, 10 Pack Cover

Bates- Paint Tray Liner, 9 Inch, 10 Pack

#TOP 2 Bates 9-Inch Paint Tray Set Cover

Bates 9-Inch Paint Tray Set

#TOP 3 Miracle Sealants Tile & Stone Sealer Applicator Cover

Miracle Sealants Tile & Stone Sealer Applicator

#TOP 4 Bates Choice 4 Inch Paint Tray Set 22 pcs Cover

Bates Choice 4 Inch Paint Tray Set 22 pcs

#TOP 5 BLACK+DECKER Paint Tray Liner 10 Pack Cover

BLACK+DECKER Paint Tray Liner 10 Pack

#TOP 6 Bates Choice 4 Inch Paint Tray Set Cover

Bates Choice 4 Inch Paint Tray Set

#TOP 7 Bates Choice 9 Inch Paint Tray 2-Pack Cover

Bates Choice 9 Inch Paint Tray 2-Pack

#TOP 8 Bates Choice 6 Inch Paint Roller Tray Kit Cover

Bates Choice 6 Inch Paint Roller Tray Kit

#TOP 9 KATA 36pcs Painting Pyramid Stands Cover

KATA 36pcs Painting Pyramid Stands

#TOP 10 Bates Choice 9 Inch Paint Tray Liners Set Cover

Bates Choice 9 Inch Paint Tray Liners Set

Brand Bates Choice Bates Choice Miracle Sealants Bates Choice BLACK+DECKER Bates Choice Bates Choice Bates Choice KATA Bates Choice
Item Weight 0.32 Kilograms 1.23 Kilograms 0.15 Pounds 0.7 Kilograms - 0.67 Kilograms 0.37 Kilograms 0.7 Kilograms 9.9 ounces 1.18 Kilograms
Color White Gray - Black - Blue Black Black 36pc Silver
Material Plastic Plastic Synthetic material - - Plastic - Plastic Plastic Metal
Style 10 Pack Functional Rectangular Tray with Textured Surface and Roller Frame Disposable - - compact Basic Basic - Metal tray with textured surface
FTB Score
9.9
9.8
9.6
9.5
9.3
9.2
9.2
9.1
9.0
9.0
Where to Buy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What can I use if I don't have a paint tray?

If you don't have a paint tray, you can use a shoe box top as a makeshift paint tray for small paint jobs. It's lightweight, easy to hold, and sturdy enough to hold the paint. Once you're done, you can simply dispose of it.

2. Can you put new paint in an old paint tray?

It is important to clean an old paint tray before using it again. Any leftover paint in the tray can mix with the fresh paint and affect the color or consistency. Cleaning the tray ensures a clean and smooth application of the new paint.

3. Should you always pour paint into a tray?

Yes, pouring paint into a tray is recommended for a smooth and easy application. Using a roller with paint from a tray extends the life of the paint can and allows for even coverage on the walls or surfaces being painted.

4. Can you use an old paint tray for new paint?

It is important to clean an old paint tray before using it for new paint. Any paint residue in the tray can mix with the fresh paint and affect the color or consistency. Cleaning the tray ensures a clean and professional application of the new paint.

Editor's Notes

During our paint tray research, we found 24 paint tray products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 40,229 customer reviews through our big data system to write the paint trays list. We found that most customers choose paint trays with an average price of $11.61.

The paint trays are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of paint trays, including Bates Choice, Miracle Sealants, BLACK+DECKER, KATA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 3,458 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by

Howard Chester Avatar

Howard Chester

Howard Chester is an architect from New York who holds a master's degree in architectural design, his passions for interior design and home improvement contribute to his extensive knowledge of all things furniture and home goods. Howard Chester Specializes in various architectural and interior design projects. He often publishes articles related to decoration on key websites and interior design magazines.