Habitat's popular £12 checked tray returns in new sizes and colours

The £12 Habitat tray that keeps selling out faster than concert tickets has returned with fresh colourways and new sizes. This humble checked pattern has somehow achieved viral status, proving that sometimes the most unexpected pieces become Instagram gold.

What's Going On

The original Habitat checked tray launched quietly but has now sold out seven times, becoming what industry insiders call an "accidental viral hit." Social media has latched onto its retro-meets-modern gingham pattern, with lifestyle influencers showcasing it everywhere from coffee table styling to kitchen worktop organisation. The pattern taps into the broader checkerboard revival that's been gaining momentum since 2023, but it's the accessibility that's really driven demand.

What makes this phenomenon particularly interesting is how it reflects our current approach to home styling. Rather than investing in expensive statement pieces, homeowners are gravitating toward affordable accessories that photograph well and serve multiple functions. The tray works equally as a serving piece for entertaining, a catch-all for keys and post, or simply as decorative filler on shelves and surfaces.

The restock includes expanded sizing options and additional colourways beyond the original black-and-white combination, suggesting Habitat recognises they've struck gold with this unexpected bestseller.

How to Make It Work in Your Home

The key to styling checked accessories without creating visual chaos lies in treating them as accent pieces rather than dominant patterns. Use the tray to ground busy surfaces—its geometric pattern actually helps organise the eye when surrounded by varied textures and shapes. On a coffee table, pair it with solid-coloured books, a simple candle, or fresh flowers to let the pattern shine without competing elements.

For kitchen styling, the tray excels at corralling everyday items like salt and pepper mills, olive oil bottles, or herb pots. The checked pattern adds personality to utilitarian storage while maintaining a clean, organised appearance. Consider placing it on a kitchen island or windowsill where its pattern can catch natural light throughout the day.

"Sometimes the most unexpected pieces become Instagram gold, proving that viral home accessories don't need to break the bank to make a statement."

Budget-conscious decorators should consider how one well-chosen patterned piece can refresh an entire room's aesthetic. At £12, this tray offers maximum impact for minimal investment. Look for similar checked patterns in other accessories—perhaps a cushion from Next or a throw from Zara Home—to create a cohesive theme without overwhelming the space.

The Bottom Line

This viral tray phenomenon reveals something significant about contemporary home styling: authenticity trumps perfection. The piece succeeds because it's genuinely useful, reasonably priced, and photogenic without trying too hard. While the constant sell-outs create artificial scarcity that fuels demand, the fundamental appeal lies in its versatility and accessibility. For £12, it's a low-risk way to test whether the checked pattern trend works in your space—and if you're quick enough to snag one before the next sellout.