Top Paint Trays for DIY Projects: 7 Picks Compared
For most DIYers, the Wooster Brush Sherlock is the best paint tray. It has a unique grid that loads rollers evenly and reduces splatter. Its main advantage is the ergonomic handle and sturdy build. The main limitation is that it costs more than basic trays.
A good paint tray can make or break a DIY painting project. It affects how evenly your roller picks up paint and how much mess you make. With so many options, choosing one can be overwhelming.
We compared seven popular paint trays sold on Amazon. We looked at their construction, features, and what owners say about them. This guide helps you pick the right tray for your specific needs.
The shortlist, ranked
Wooster Brush Sherlock Paint Tray
The Wooster Sherlock is a heavy-duty plastic tray with a unique grid that fits inside. The grid lifts paint to the roller, reducing drips and splatter. It has a comfortable handle and a wide base for stability. Owners report it is easy to clean and holds up well over time.
Pros
- Reduces splatter effectively
- Comfortable handle
- Easy to clean
Cons
- More expensive than basic trays
- Grid can flex if pressed hard
Proform Technologies Paint Tray with Liner
This tray comes with disposable liners that snap into place. The liners make cleanup simple: just peel and toss. The tray itself is sturdy and has a non-skid bottom. It fits standard rollers and holds up to a gallon. Ideal for those who hate washing trays.
Pros
- No messy cleanup
- Includes liners
- Sturdy construction
Cons
- Liners can tear if overfilled
- Tray alone is not very durable
Sackorange 4-Pack Disposable Paint Trays
This pack includes four lightweight plastic trays. They are perfect for small jobs and for using with different colors without worrying about cleanup. They are not as sturdy as reusable trays but offer great value. Owners say they are fine for occasional use.
Pros
- Very affordable
- No cleanup needed
- Good for multiple colors
Cons
- Not durable
- Can warp with heavy paint
Dripless Inc. Paint Tray with Magnetic Brush Holder
This tray features a strong magnet on the rim to hold metal brushes. It has a deep well for paint and a built-in grid. The plastic is thick and resistant to solvents. Users like the convenience of having their brush within reach.
Pros
- Magnet holds brushes securely
- Deep reservoir
- Durable plastic
Cons
- Magnet only works with metal brushes
- A bit bulky
Fusion Paint Tray with Metal Grid
This tray has a metal grid that resists solvents and is stronger than plastic grids. It is built for professional use and handles oil-based paints without degrading. The tray is made of galvanized steel for long life. It is heavier but very stable.
Pros
- Solvent resistant
- Sturdy and stable
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Heavy
- Harder to clean than plastic
Purdy Spring Loaded Paint Tray
Purdy’s tray has a spring-loaded grid that pushes paint to the surface as you roll. This reduces the amount of paint left in the tray. It is made of durable plastic and fits standard rollers. Owners report it saves paint and reduces cleanup.
Pros
- Saves paint
- Easy to use
- High quality construction
Cons
- Spring mechanism can fail over time
- Pricier than basic trays
Leaktite Heavy Duty Paint Tray
Leaktite offers a large tray that can hold more than a gallon. It has reinforced rims to prevent bending and a rough bottom to keep liners in place. It is designed for heavy use and can handle big roller covers. Users like its capacity and strength.
Pros
- Large capacity
- Very durable
- Fits wide rollers
Cons
- Too large for small projects
- Takes up storage space
How to pick the right one
How they stack up
| # | Model | Capacity | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wooster Brush Sherlock Paint Tray | 1 gallon | serious DIYers who want a sturdy, reusable tray | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Proform Technologies Paint Tray with Liner | 1 gallon | quick cleanups and multiple colors | 9.0 | Check price |
| 3 | Sackorange 4-Pack Disposable Paint Trays | 4 trays | one-off projects and small touch-ups | 8.2 | Check price |
| 4 | Dripless Inc. Paint Tray with Magnetic Brush Holder | 1 gallon | keeping brushes handy while painting | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Fusion Paint Tray with Metal Grid | 1 gallon | heavy-duty use and oil-based paints | 8.6 | Check price |
| 6 | Purdy Spring Loaded Paint Tray | 1 gallon | minimizing paint waste | 8.7 | Check price |
| 7 | Leaktite Heavy Duty Paint Tray | 1.5 gallons | large projects and contractors | 8.4 | Check price |
Good to know
How much paint should I pour into a paint tray?
Fill the tray to the bottom of the well, about a quarter to a half inch deep. Overfilling can cause paint to spill over the edge when you roll.
Can I use a paint tray with a paint sprayer?
No, paint trays are designed for rollers and brushes. For sprayers, you need a separate container.
What is the best way to prevent paint drips?
Use a tray with a good grid to remove excess paint. Also, do not overload the roller. Roll it on the grid until the paint is evenly distributed.
Are metal paint trays better than plastic?
Metal trays are more durable and resist solvents, making them good for oil-based paints. Plastic trays are lighter and easier to clean. Your choice depends on the type of paint and frequency of use.
How do I clean a paint tray with dried paint?
Soak the tray in warm soapy water for a few hours. Then scrape off the softened paint with a putty knife. For stubborn paint, use a paint remover.
Can I use a paint tray liner without the tray?
No, liners are meant to fit inside a tray. They need the tray for structure. You can buy trays that come with liners, like the Proform model.
What size roller fits these trays?
Most standard trays fit 9-inch rollers. Some larger trays can fit 18-inch rollers. Check the tray dimensions before buying.
Is it worth buying a more expensive paint tray?
If you paint often, a higher quality tray will last longer and provide better results. For occasional use, a budget tray might be enough.
The bottom line
For most DIYers, the Wooster Brush Sherlock is the best choice. It offers a good balance of durability, ease of use, and minimal splatter. If you hate cleaning, the Proform with liners is excellent. For small projects, the Sackorange disposable trays are practical.
