Keep Rolls Fair and Tables Safe with a Dice Rolling Tray

Updated on: 2025-11-01

A dice rolling tray keeps your rolls fair, your table protected, and your game night flowing. This guide explains how to choose the right size and material, when to pick a dice tray versus a dice rolling mat, and which features—like snaps, foldable designs, or pairing with a dice tower—make the most sense for your setup. You’ll also learn simple care tips, including how to clean a leather dice rolling tray, plus answers to the most common questions. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to set up, use, and maintain a dice rolling tray that fits your style and your table.

Why a dice rolling tray matters for smooth, fair rolls
How-To Guide: Set up, use, and care for your dice rolling tray
Common Questions Answered: Dice rolling tray FAQs

If you’ve ever watched a die go flying into snacks or off the table mid-boss fight, a dice rolling tray is your new best friend. A good tray keeps rolls contained, protects your table, and reduces noise, so you can focus on the story and the strategy. Whether you’re upgrading your tabletop gaming accessories, weighing a dice tray versus a dice rolling mat, or eyeing a leather dice rolling tray with snaps that packs flat, you’ll find practical tips here to choose, use, and care for the right setup. And if you prefer browsing options first, you can explore gear directly at Runic Dice.

How-To Guide: Set up, use, and care for your dice rolling tray

Step 1: Choose the right size and shape

Start with the space you actually have. If you play at a coffee table or a cramped game store table, a compact dice rolling tray (about 6–8 inches across) keeps rolls contained without crowding character sheets. For larger tables or when you’re rolling big pools (hello, advantage and smites), a 10–12 inch tray gives your dice room to tumble naturally.

Round trays: Efficient for random bounces and easy to angle toward the roller.
Square or hex trays: Great for stacking near character sheets and minis.
Raised edges: Look for at least 1 inch of height to keep dice from hopping out.

As a rule of thumb, pick the smallest dice rolling tray that never feels cramped when you roll a full handful. If you find yourself “aiming” to avoid the walls, size up.

Step 2: Pick the best material for your dice rolling tray

Materials affect sound, bounce, and durability. Here’s a quick comparison to dial in feel and function:

Leather (or vegan leather): Softens the impact, looks premium, and pairs well with metal dice. Many prefer a leather dice rolling tray with snaps for portability.
Felt-lined wood: Classic tabletop vibe with a gentle bounce and pleasant sound. Felt is quiet; wood adds stability.
Neoprene: Budget-friendly, very quiet, and grippy. Common in foldable trays and dice rolling mats.
Microfiber or suede lining: Cushioned roll and low clatter. Great for late-night sessions.

Ask yourself what you want to optimize: silence, bounce, or portability. If you’re still deciding, you can compare options in one place on the Shop all page.

Step 3: Features to consider (snaps, foldable designs, and towers)

Small design choices can make a big difference in day-to-day play:

Snaps: A leather dice rolling tray with snaps lays flat in your bag, then becomes a sturdy tray in seconds.
Foldable designs: A foldable dice rolling tray for DnD is ideal for travel-heavy campaigns and conventions.
Dice tower compatibility: A dice tower adds extra randomness and drama. If you love towers, choose a tray that fits under the tower chute or a combined tray-tower set.
Low-profile walls: Good for easier dice retrieval; high walls keep wild rolls even more contained.
Stitching and reinforcement: Double stitching at corners helps trays hold their shape over time.

Many players pair a tray with a tower for maximum fairness, but a well-lined tray by itself is already a solid upgrade to any kit of tabletop gaming accessories.

Step 4: Set up at the table (tray vs. dice rolling mat)

Place your dice rolling tray where you naturally reach—usually to the dominant-hand side of your character sheet. Angle the tray toward yourself to reduce ricochets toward other minis or snacks. If table space is tight, a dice rolling mat can be a smart substitute; it rolls up small, covers more area, and still quiets the clatter.

Use a tray when space is defined and you want the most containment.
Use a dice rolling mat when several players share a rolling area or when you need a low-profile solution.
Combine them by putting a tray on top of a mat for extra sound dampening.

It’s fine to test a few layouts during session zero and see what keeps your rolls clear and your table organized.

Step 5: Clean and care the right way

Good care keeps your dice rolling tray looking sharp and feeling consistent:

Dust and debris: Tap the tray gently or use a soft brush to remove grit that could scratch metal dice.
Lining refresh: For felt or microfiber, a lint roller or a short-bristle brush works well.
Leather care: Wipe with a slightly damp, lint-free cloth. For a deeper refresh, use a small amount of leather cleaner and finish with conditioner—always test in a corner first.
Neoprene/Mats: Wipe with mild soap and water, then air dry flat away from heat.

If you’re unsure about a specific cleaner or material, check product guidance or reach out via the store’s Contact page for support.

Step 6: Store and transport without damage

Snap trays are built for travel—unsnap, lay flat, and slide into a backpack or folio. Keep trays away from sharp edges or heavy books that could crease or dent them. If you carry metal dice, consider a separate pouch to avoid dings on the tray walls. For long-term storage, keep trays dry and out of direct sunlight to prevent fading or warping.

Common Questions Answered: Dice rolling tray FAQs

What is the best material for a dice rolling tray?

It depends on your priorities. Leather (and high-quality vegan leather) offers a premium feel, excellent impact control, and a mellow sound—great for late-night games and metal dice. Felt-lined wood balances classic looks with a consistent roll and sturdy base. Neoprene is light, portable, and quiet, making it ideal for foldable designs and dice rolling mats. If you want the quietest experience, suede-like linings or neoprene lead the pack; if you want a refined look with solid protection, leather is hard to beat.

How do you clean a leather dice rolling tray?

Wipe it with a barely damp, lint-free cloth to remove surface dust. For stubborn spots, apply a tiny amount of leather cleaner to the cloth (not directly to the tray), wipe gently, then buff with a dry cloth. Condition occasionally with a leather conditioner to keep it supple. Always test any product on a hidden corner first. Avoid soaking, harsh chemicals, and direct heat while drying.

Do I need a dice tower if I already use a tray?

No, a tray alone is enough for most tables. A dice tower adds extra randomness and a fun ritual, but it’s optional. If you enjoy the aesthetic and the sound of dice clattering through a tower, choose a tray that fits under the tower’s exit so your rolls stay contained. If you prefer a quieter setup, a well-lined tray or dice rolling mat will keep things fair and calm.

What size dice rolling tray fits a small table?

Look for a compact tray in the 6–8 inch range. It gives dice enough room to tumble while leaving space for character sheets and snacks. If multiple players share tight space, a narrow rectangular tray or a pair of small trays can work better than one oversized option.

Is a dice rolling mat better than a tray?

They solve slightly different problems. A tray maximizes containment and gives rolls a consistent boundary, which helps with fairness and prevents runaway dice. A dice rolling mat shines when you need a larger shared surface or a packable option that doubles as a playmat. Many groups use both: a mat to dampen noise across the table and individual trays to keep each player’s rolls organized.

Will a tray protect metal dice and the table?

Yes—choose a tray with a soft lining (felt, suede-like microfiber, or leather) to cushion impact. This protects both your table and the edges of your dice. If you roll heavy metal sets, avoid bare wood or glass surfaces and consider a tray with thicker padding or a mat underneath for extra protection.

If you’re building a portable kit—tray, mat, dice tower, and a few storage pouches—you can browse a curated selection in one place on the FAQ page, which often links to helpful resources and product categories. When you’re ready to explore options, check out the full range on Shop all or start at the Runic Dice home page.