Choosing the Right Turntable: A Practical Buyer’s Guide

A turntable, also known as a Lazy Susan, is a surprisingly versatile addition to any dining table or kitchen. It makes sharing appetisers, tapas, or a cheese board more social and convenient. Everyone can reach what they want without having to lean across the table. However, the market is flooded with options that look good at first glance but disappoint in practice. Before you make a choice, it's wise to know what to look for to avoid a bad purchase.

Many people make the mistake of focusing on appearance while forgetting about functionality. This leads to two common problems:

1. A wobbly or stiff mechanism: A cheap turntable will start to wobble or stop rotating smoothly after just a few uses. The result is an unstable surface you wouldn't trust with drinks.
2. Staining and difficult maintenance: Certain materials, like untreated wood, look beautiful but quickly absorb oil or wine stains that are impossible to remove. This makes the board unhygienic and unattractive.

What to Look for When Making Your Selection

To ensure you choose a turntable that is both practical and durable, there are a few specifications you should check.

1. Material: Bamboo, Plastic, or Wood?

The material determines not only the look but also the maintenance and lifespan.

• Bamboo: A popular material due to its natural and warm appearance. A bamboo turntable is relatively strong and lightweight. It is a more sustainable type of grass compared to many wood species. The downside is that bamboo is not dishwasher-safe and requires periodic maintenance with a bit of vegetable oil to keep it in good condition.
• Plastic: Often a practical choice for a kitchen cupboard or refrigerator. Plastic is easy to clean and lightweight. When choosing plastic, look for a BPA-free label, especially if it will come into contact with food.
• Wood: Classic and robust, but often heavier and more susceptible to stains and moisture if not properly finished.

2. Diameter and Stability

Size is perhaps the most important factor. A turntable that is too large won't fit well on your table, while one that is too small defeats its purpose.

• Diameter: Measure the available space on your table. A diameter of 30 to 35 cm is a common size for a rotating serving board or a rotating cheese board for an average-sized group. This is also often sufficient for a rotating cake stand. If you have a large dining table and frequently host many guests, a 50 cm model can be a great solution.
• Stability: The base of the rotating tray is crucial. A wide, stable base or the presence of non-slip feet prevents the turntable from shifting or tipping over when someone takes something from it.

Our Top Product Recommendations

Below are a few popular choices, matched to different use cases.

MATCH FOR: The Social Host

Secret de Gourmet Bamboo Rotating Tray - 35 cm

Why it's a good match: Ideal for those who regularly host gatherings and want a stylish way to pass around a tapas board. The natural bamboo look fits well with a cosy, homely atmosphere.

How It Avoids the Pitfall

With proper care, the bamboo material is durable and less prone to staining than untreated softwood. It avoids the pitfall of a board that looks stained after just one use.

Key Advantage & Highlights

35 cm diameter: A versatile size, large enough for a generous spread of appetisers but compact enough for most dining tables. Natural aesthetic: Complements almost any interior design.

MATCH FOR: The Efficient Kitchen Organiser

Joseph Joseph CupboardStore Rotating Organiser

Why it's a good match: For anyone looking to bring order to a deep kitchen cupboard. This turntable, for use on a table or in a cabinet, makes jars, tins, and spices at the back instantly accessible.

How It Avoids the Pitfall

The Joseph Joseph design is focused on functionality. The mechanism is engineered for daily use in a cupboard and continues to rotate smoothly, avoiding the pitfall of a stiff or wobbly mechanism.

Key Advantage & Highlights

Tiered design: The different levels provide a better overview. Extra storage compartment: Useful for small, loose items. It's a smart solution for making the most of your cabinet space.

MATCH FOR: The Host for Large Groups

Secret de Gourmet Bamboo Rotating Tray - 50 cm

Why it's a good match: Perfect for large dining tables and family dinners. With a 50 cm diameter, everyone can reach the bowls, sauces, and side dishes without needing anything passed to them.

How It Avoids the Pitfall

This model tackles the pitfall of incorrect sizing. Where a standard turntable is too small for a large group, this model provides the necessary space, making it truly functional during a dinner party.

Key Advantage & Highlights

Extra-large surface: The 50 cm diameter offers significantly more space. Non-slip feet: According to the manufacturer, these provide extra stability, which is important for a larger and more heavily loaded turntable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I maintain a bamboo turntable?

A bamboo turntable should not be put in the dishwasher. Clean it with a damp cloth and mild soap. Dry it thoroughly immediately after. To keep the bamboo in good condition and prevent stains, you can occasionally rub it with a thin layer of vegetable oil (such as grapeseed or walnut oil).

Is a turntable stable enough for bottles or glasses?

Stability depends on the construction of the base. Models with a wide, heavy base or non-slip feet are generally more stable. For heavier objects like bottles, it is advisable to choose a turntable specifically described as robust and stable. Always check the manufacturer's specifications.

What is the difference between a turntable and a Lazy Susan?

There is no difference. Lazy Susan is the original English name for a turntable. Both terms are used to describe the same product: a rotating tray or disc for a table.