The following materials are popular when it comes to TV trays.
Wood. Teak, birch, cedar, and oak are commonly used to manufacture TV trays, because of their strength and unmatched surface texture and grains. Wood can be finished in different ways to match various interiors. Apart from the popular French polish, varnish, stain, lacquer, shellac, and oil paints are the other elegant finishing options.
Manufactured wood. It is an affordable option with real-wood looks and appeal. Although durable and strong, it is more porous than hardwood such as teak, hence, it expands and gets affected by climatic factors. Nevertheless, it is ideal for indoor designs.
Metal. Mostly steel and aluminum tubes and pipes are used for the frames of foldable models. These metals are light-weight and portable yet strong. Like wood, metal also offers wonderful finishing options that gift the TV trays their elegance and style. Buff and brush finish will be natural, while dry electro-coating will give a matt finish in many colors. Bronze, brass, chrome, and other finishes are also available.
Plastic. Plastic furniture including TV trays is one of the most affordable products in the market. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) are manufacturers' choices. These thermoplastics are strong and durable, yet affordable and light-weight. And they can be produced in attractive colors that harmonize with many types of decors.
If you choose a plastic TV tray for exterior use, keep in mind that it will chip, crack, or become brittle over time when exposed to UV rays. For this reason, be ready to trade their longevity with their looks and appeal.
Natural materials such as bamboo, cane, rattan, and wicker. Their strips and strand are finely hand-weaved to make the tray-top over a metal or plastic frame. They often have paneled edges.
Caution: All natural materials will degrade over time, and they can breed bacteria. This type of TV tray will need regular cleaning and upkeep, even if the surface is seasoned and laminated.