- The lazy Susan first came into use in the 18th century. The rotating board in the center of the table was originally called a dumbwaiter as it replaced an actual waiter in a dining room. It improved meal service and allowed diners easy access to a family-style meal. Restaurants adapted the concept for their own use, placing condiments and shared dishes on the tray.
- A lazy Susan can be convenient when entertaining, offering easy access to parts of a meal or appetizers in the center of the table. Today, many people use their lazy Susans in cabinets, pantries, and closets, which makes out-of-reach items accessible and can make awkward corner kitchen cabinets more functional.
- Lazy Susans are available in wood, metal, and plastic. Choose a wooden version or make your own alternative as a serving piece. Plastic or metal lazy Susans and similar alternatives can work well to organize your cabinets and make the most of your space.
- The best alternative to an expensive store-bought one is to simply make your own lazy Susan. Purchase a round board at your hardware or home-improvement center. Sand, stain, and finish the board. Screw a purchased lazy Susan bearing into place on the underside of the round board you have prepared. Apply self-adhesive rubber or felt to the underside of the bearing to prevent scratching.
- Pre-made lazy Susan units are available for corner cabinets; however, these can leave a great deal of wasted space. Consider installing a basic lazy Susan on mounted shelves to allow the best use of your cabinet space. If you would like to access the back of your cabinets without installing a lazy Susan, consider drop-down shelves, stacking shelves or small plastic drawer units as an alternative organizational option.
