Posted on April 23rd, 2024.

The Lazy Susan, a versatile revolving tray, has become a staple in homes and restaurants worldwide, but its history and significance remain shrouded in mystery.

Originating in the 18th century as a dining room fixture known as a "dumbwaiter," the Lazy Susan has evolved into a multifunctional accessory used for storage, serving, and display purposes. 

Its rotating mechanism allows for easy access to items from all angles, making it a convenient addition to any setting.

But what is a Lazy Susan? Why is it Lazy? And why is it Susan?

In this article, we'll unravel the fascinating history and name significance of the Lazy Susan, shedding light on its enduring appeal and practicality.

What is a Lazy Susan?

A Lazy Susan is a rotating tray or turntable that sits atop a base, allowing it to spin 360 degrees. This ingenious invention provides easy access to items placed on the tray from all angles, making it a convenient solution for organizing, serving, and displaying various items. Users can place items such as condiments, spices, or serving dishes on the tray of the Lazy Susan. By gently pushing or pulling the items, they initiate the rotation of the tray, allowing them to access different items without having to move around the table or cabinet.

Here's how it works:

• Rotating Mechanism: The Lazy Susan typically features a rotating mechanism, such as ball bearings or a swivel mount, located between the base and the tray. This mechanism enables smooth and effortless rotation, allowing users to spin the tray with ease.
• Circular Design: The tray of a Lazy Susan is circular in shape, providing ample space for storing or showcasing multiple items. Its design ensures that items placed on the tray remain stable and secure during rotation.
• Sturdy Base: The base of a Lazy Susan serves as a stable foundation, supporting the rotating tray and providing balance and stability during use.

Now that we've explored how a Lazy Susan works, let's delve into its versatile uses in various settings.

Lazy Susan Uses

The versatility of the Lazy Susan extends far beyond its traditional role as a dining table accessory. From kitchen organization to serving convenience, this rotating tray finds numerous applications in both residential and commercial settings.

Kitchen Organization

In residential kitchens, Lazy Susans are invaluable for organizing and maximizing storage space. Placed in cabinets or pantry shelves, they allow easy access to items such as spices, condiments, canned goods, and cooking utensils. By rotating the tray, users can quickly locate and retrieve items without the need to rummage through crowded shelves.

Dining Room Convenience

In dining rooms and restaurants, Lazy Susans serve as practical serving trays for appetizers, condiments, and desserts. Placed at the center of the table, they enable guests to easily access and share dishes, enhancing the dining experience and promoting social interaction. Lazy Susans are especially popular in communal dining settings or during family-style meals where multiple dishes are served.

Craft Room Organization

Lazy Susans are useful tools in craft rooms for organizing and storing supplies such as paints, brushes, scissors, and other crafting materials. By utilizing a Lazy Susan, crafters can keep their workspace tidy and efficiently access supplies as needed during creative projects. The rotating tray allows for easy selection of materials without the need to search through cluttered drawers or shelves.

Workshop Efficiency

In workshops, Lazy Susans are utilized to organize and store tools, hardware, and small parts. Placed on workbenches or tool carts, they provide easy access to essential items during DIY projects or professional tasks. By keeping tools and supplies within reach and neatly arranged, Lazy Susans contribute to improved workflow and productivity in workshop environments.

Now, let's explore the advantages of incorporating a Lazy Susan into your home.

Advantages of Having a Lazy Susan at Home

Integrating a Lazy Susan into your home offers numerous benefits that enhance organization, convenience, and efficiency in various areas of daily life.

1. Maximizes Storage Space

One of the primary advantages of incorporating a Lazy Susan into your home is its ability to maximize storage space. By utilizing the full circumference of the rotating tray, you can efficiently store and access a greater quantity of items in cabinets, pantries, and other storage areas.

2. Improves Accessibility

Lazy Susans make it easy to access items stored on their rotating trays from any angle. Whether you're reaching for spices in the kitchen or crafting supplies in the craft room, the smooth rotation of the Lazy Susan ensures that items are easily within reach, eliminating the need to rummage through cluttered shelves or drawers.

3. Enhances Organization

With a Lazy Susan, you can organize items more effectively, reducing clutter and streamlining your living spaces. By categorizing and arranging items on the rotating tray, you can maintain a tidy and organized environment, making it easier to find what you need when you need it.

4. Promotes Efficiency

The convenience of a Lazy Susan promotes efficiency in daily tasks and activities. Whether you're preparing meals in the kitchen, serving guests in the dining room, or working on projects in the craft room or workshop, the ability to quickly access and retrieve items from a Lazy Susan saves time and effort, allowing you to focus on more important tasks.

As we've seen, the advantages of having a Lazy Susan at home are undeniable. Now, let's explore the fascinating history and origins of this ingenious invention to gain a deeper appreciation for its enduring appeal and practicality.

The History of the Lazy Susan

The Lazy Susan boasts a storied history dating back centuries, evolving from humble beginnings into a versatile household fixture admired for its functionality and convenience.

Origins of the Lazy Susan

The origins of the Lazy Susan can be traced back to 18th-century England, where it first appeared as a dining room accessory known as a "dumbwaiter." Initially, dumbwaiters were stationary shelves or serving tables designed to hold dishes and condiments during meals. Over time, the concept evolved, leading to the creation of the revolving tray that we now recognize as the Lazy Susan. While the exact inventor remains unknown, its practical design revolutionized the dining experience, allowing for easier access to food items without the need for constant passing around the table.

Evolution of the Lazy Susan

The Lazy Susan underwent various stages of evolution as its design and functionality continued to improve. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, advancements in manufacturing and engineering led to the widespread adoption of rotating mechanisms, such as ball bearings and swivel mounts, in Lazy Susan construction. This innovation enhanced the tray's smooth rotation and durability, making it a popular choice for both residential and commercial use. Today, the Lazy Susan has evolved into a versatile accessory available in a wide range of sizes, materials, and designs to suit diverse needs and preferences.

The Lazy Susan Today

The versatility of the Lazy Susan extends beyond the dining table, finding applications in various settings and industries. In residential kitchens, Lazy Susans are commonly used in cabinets and pantries to maximize storage space and improve accessibility to items such as spices, condiments, and cookware. In dining rooms and restaurants, they serve as practical serving trays for appetizers, condiments, and desserts, allowing guests to easily access and share food items during meals. Additionally, Lazy Susans are employed in craft rooms, workshops, and office spaces to organize and store supplies, tools, and documents, enhancing efficiency and productivity in these environments. With its myriad of uses and enduring appeal, the Lazy Susan remains a timeless and indispensable accessory in modern-day living.

The Story Behind the Name "Lazy Susan"

The origin of the term "Lazy Susan" is shrouded in mystery, with several theories surrounding its etymology. While the exact origin remains uncertain, the name has become synonymous with the rotating tray it represents, adding to its charm and intrigue.

One popular theory suggests that the term "Lazy Susan" originated in the early 20th century as a humorous description of the tray's convenience. It was believed to imply that using the revolving tray made the person operating it, typically a server or hostess, appear lazy. However, far from being lazy, the invention of the Lazy Susan was a stroke of genius that simplified serving and access to items on the dining table.

Another theory proposes that the name may have originated from the use of the term "lazy" to describe revolving mechanisms in other contexts, such as turntables and rotating platforms. The association of the term with the rotating tray likely contributed to its adoption as a descriptive name for the invention.

Regardless of its origin, the name "Lazy Susan" has endured through the years, becoming firmly entrenched in the lexicon of household items. Its whimsical name adds a touch of charm to the practicality of the revolving tray, ensuring that the story behind its name remains as intriguing as the invention itself.

How to Choose Your Lazy Susan

Choosing the right Lazy Susan for your needs involves considering various factors to ensure it complements your space and serves its intended purpose effectively. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:

1. Size and Shape

Consider the size and shape of the Lazy Susan in relation to the space where you plan to use it. Measure the dimensions of your cabinet, pantry, or tabletop to ensure the Lazy Susan fits comfortably and allows for smooth rotation without obstruction.

2. Material and Construction

Select a Lazy Susan made from durable materials that can withstand regular use and support the weight of items placed on the tray. Options such as wood, metal, and plastic offer different aesthetics, quality and durability levels to suit your preferences and needs.

3. Rotating Mechanism

Choose a Lazy Susan with a reliable rotating mechanism that ensures smooth and effortless rotation. Look for options with sturdy ball bearings or swivel mounts that provide stability and durability for long-term use.

4. Design and Style

Consider the design and style of the Lazy Susan to complement your existing decor and personal taste. Whether you prefer a sleek and modern design or a rustic and traditional look, there are options available to suit a variety of aesthetics.

Our Pick!

For premium Lazy Susans crafted from exquisite walnut wood, consider the Walnut Wave Lazy Susan or the Walnut Lattice Lazy Susan from NWA Wood Design. These handcrafted Lazy Susans combine elegance with functionality, making them the perfect addition to any home or dining setting.

5. Customization Options

Explore customization options to personalize your Lazy Susan and make it uniquely yours. Some manufacturers offer customizable features such as engraved patterns or personalized monograms to add a personal touch to your Lazy Susan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who Invented the Lazy Susan?

The invention of the Lazy Susan is attributed to Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States. While there is some debate over the exact origins of the term "Lazy Susan," it is widely believed to have been named after Thomas Jefferson's daughter, Susan. Legend has it that Jefferson invented the device to impress guests at his home, Monticello, by showcasing his collection of fine foods and wines with ease.

Why is it Called a Lazy Susan?

The origin of the term "Lazy Susan" remains somewhat elusive, with several theories surrounding its etymology. One popular belief is that the term originated in the early 20th century as a humorous description of the tray's convenience, implying that it made serving and accessing items effortless, thus making Susan, or whoever operated it, appear lazy. Another theory suggests that the name may have been derived from the use of the term "lazy" to describe revolving mechanisms in other contexts, such as turntables and rotating platforms.

Related: Preserving Beauty: How to Care for and Maintain Your Handcrafted Wood Products

Wrapping Up

We've explored the fascinating history, uses, and selection tips for the iconic Lazy Susan. From its origins as a dining room fixture to its modern-day applications in kitchens, dining rooms, craft rooms, and workshops, the Lazy Susan continues to be a versatile and indispensable accessory in homes and commercial settings.

At NWA Wood Design, we offer premium Lazy Susans crafted from exquisite walnut wood, combining elegance with functionality to enhance organization and convenience in your home. Our wood creations are meticulously handcrafted to provide smooth rotation and durability, making them the perfect addition to any kitchen or dining setting.

If you're ready to elevate your space with our exquisite Lazy Susans, Shop Now!

Alternatively, if you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us at (479) 381-9328 or email us at [email protected]. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional craftsmanship and personalized service to bring your vision to life. Elevate your space with NWA Wood Design today!