Dinnerware Choose Guide

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When you think about eating dinner or hosting a dinner party, the second thing that usually comes to mind (after the food on your plate, of course) is the type of dinnerware set you'll be using to feed your guests and family.

Choosing the correct dinnerware allows you to show off your tablescape techniques while also improving the eating experience for your family, friends, and guests.

Finding the correct dinnerware set necessitates understanding the fundamentals, which include the type of material and various pieces required based on the meals you usually consume and serve just to mention a few. 

Our expert guide will walk you through the process of selecting the best dinnerware for your specific needs. We've also provided advice on how to properly care for your tableware, so you may enjoy it for many years to come. 
 

Understanding Dinnerware

Dinnerware is commonly used to refer to several types of crockery. Dinnerware comes in a variety of styles, each with its own set of characteristics and materials. and uses.

Dinnerware sets include matching plates, bowls, and occasionally cups and saucers for serving and eating meals. A set often consists of dinner plates, dessert or salad plates, and soup or cereal bowls. Teacups and saucers, service dishes, and platters are all possible additions to larger sets.

The definition of dinnerware has evolved over time. While tableware still performs its fundamental function of facilitating eating and drinking, it is increasingly employed as a means of self-expression and an extension of home design. Tableware, ranging from beautiful porcelain to rustic wooden trays, can represent an individual's style and taste.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Dinnerware

1. Dinnerware Material

Start by assessing your dinnerware material. Are you seeking everyday dishwasher-safe dinnerware? Or are you seeking a unique treat for important occasions? What about a multipurpose set that can do both!? Each option for tableware material has advantages that you should consider.

Bone China
 

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Bone china is durable, lightweight, and appealing for both everyday and special occasion tableware because it is chip-resistant, making it the strongest type of china; yet, unlike fine china, it is often microwave and dishwasher-safe.

Dinnerware made of bone china is widely regarded as the greatest of all tableware kinds due to its light and graceful appearance while remaining durable and chip-resistant. It’s smooth and glossy.
 

Porcelain

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Porcelain is the acme of exquisite ceramic dinnerware, exuding ageless sophistication. Crafted from fine clay burned at exceptionally high temperatures, it has a delicate, luminous, translucent character as well as a smooth, non-porous surface. Its extraordinary resistance to chipping and staining makes it a top choice for formal dining events.

Porcelain also has a lovely white, almost translucent surface and may be sculpted into delicate, graceful shapes. This excellent dinnerware is a popular option for formal, luxury dinner sets.
 

Earthenware

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Earthenware dinnerware sets have a wonderful hefty feel and a thick, rustic look, making them ideal for casual meals. They are frequently less expensive than other types of dinnerware, but they are also less durable and more susceptible to stains or chipping. However, most glazed earthenware is dishwasher and microwave-safe; if you are unsure, check with the maker.

Earthenware tableware is available in a range of earthy colors and designs, and its porous nature helps it retain heat effectively, making it ideal for serving warm dishes. Its rustic beauty and low cost make it a popular choice for individuals who like a more natural and laid-back aesthetic in their home decor.
 

Stoneware

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Stoneware has a perfect balance of beauty and durability. Stoneware dinner sets, another type of ceramic dinnerware, are made of solid clay baked at high temperatures and have extraordinary durability, making them excellent for everyday use.

Stoneware dinnerware possesses a distinct glaze finish and smooth surface that creates a canvas for elaborate designs and rich colors, bringing sophistication and enjoyment to any table setting.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this material's ability to retain heat keeps meals warm for longer, improving the dining experience. It is also a practical choice for discriminating hosts and home aficionados, whether for casual gatherings or formal occasions. 
 

Melamine

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If you want something genuinely unbreakable, a melamine dining set can be your best option. This lightweight yet extremely robust plastic is BPA-free (making it food-safe) and almost unbreakable. It's ideal for families with young children or those who want to dine outside. It is often dishwasher safe, but cannot be used in the microwave or oven.

Melamine tableware also comes in a range of vibrant and colorful designs, making it ideal for brightening up your dining experience. It's a practical choice for anyone looking for long-lasting, easy-to-use dinnerware that can survive repeated usage and drops. 

2. Purpose

Will the dinnerware be used on a daily basis or only for exceptional occasions?

Daily use can cause chips, cracks, and fractures in dinnerware. In terms of damage resistance, porcelain is the most durable ceramic, bone china is the most sturdy, followed by stoneware,  ironstone, and semiporcelain. Safety risks exist with microwave ovens and dishwashers as well.

Dinnerware sets for hosting and entertaining allow you to showcase your personal style and taste. To truly impress your visitors the next time they visit, consider standout dinner settings with intricate patterns, brilliant metallic accents, vivid colors, or gorgeous textures. Alternatively, you might choose a classic basic design, allowing the fresh colors of your cuisine to o the talking instead.

3. Shape 

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When purchasing dinnerware, you should also consider your preferred form. Common plate shapes include round, square, rectangular, and oval.  

Square, oblong, and oval sets have an edgier, more contemporary air, but round shapes offer a timeless appeal. Pieces with a rim feel more professional and are used for foods that may splash, whilst 'coupe' objects (without a rim) are for more casual settings where the food may be consumed without cutting or trouble. 
 

4. Size 

The size of your plates, bowls, and cups should be chosen based on the typical portion sizes and the dining experience you want to create. Dinner plates typically range from 10 to 12 inches in diameter, while salad plates are usually 8 to 10 inches. Soup or cereal bowls are typically 6 to 8 inches in diameter, and mugs or teacups can range from 8 to 12 ounces in capacity.

When selecting the size of your dinnerware, consider the size of your dining table, the number of people you typically entertain, and the type of meals you tend to serve. Larger plates may be more appropriate for formal or family-style meals, while smaller plates can be better suited for more intimate or tapas-style dining.

Lastly, consider your shelf size. It's a good idea to have enough tableware sets for both everyday use and hosting/entertaining, but you'll need to consider where you'll keep these items. Consider the size of your shelf space and get dinnerware sets that will fit comfortably in these places. 
 

5. Style

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It is useful to have dinnerware that can be used for both informal and formal occasions. You can experiment with different designs of tableware that reflect your personality and suit your home's decor, which is why Joyye provides a wide range of mix-and-match possibilities.

Choosing hand-decorated, patterned, solid, or banded tableware makes a strong style statement, but neutral dinnerware in whites and greys is always the most versatile choice. Be daring, but look for things that are ' stylish' rather than 'trendy', as you'll want this investment to be fashionable for years.  
 

6. Pattern and Design

The pattern and design of your dinnerware can have a significant impact on the overall aesthetic of your table setting. Dinnerware designs range from simple, solid colors to intricate patterns and bold, statement-making designs.

The style of your dinnerware sets the tone for your gatherings, so choose designs that work for multiple occasions: minimalists should explore embracing minimalist designs with subtle patterns or delicate embossments. These styles work as well for casual brunches and formal celebrations.

Solid-colored dinnerware, such as white, black, or various shades of gray, can provide a timeless, classy design that is easy to coordinate with other table linens and decor. Patterned tableware, on the other hand, can enhance the visual appeal and personality of your table. Floral, geometric, and abstract designs are popular dinnerware patterns, as are more whimsical or theme-based motifs.

The style of your dinnerware sets the tone for your gatherings, so choose designs that work for multiple occasions: minimalists should explore embracing minimalist designs with subtle patterns or delicate embossments. These styles work as well for casual brunches and formal celebrations.

When choosing a pattern or design, consider the overall style of your home and the type of meals you typically serve. Solid-colored dinnerware may be a better choice for formal or elegant settings, while patterned dinnerware can work well in more casual, eclectic, or bohemian-inspired spaces.

Additionally,  Consider the pattern's endurance and whether it is consistent with your long-term style choices. Trendy or seasonal patterns may be alluring in the moment, but they may lack the timeless charm of more traditional or minimalist designs.
 

7. Quantity and Quantity

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The most crucial factor to consider when purchasing dinnerware is the quality of the pieces. Some components may be inexpensive and visually appealing, yet they are easily broken. Even if you spend a bit extra, you can acquire the tableware you desire that will last for a long time.

Choose a material that is durable and can withstand constant use to suit your lifestyle. Porcelain and bone china, for example, are excellent choices for both beauty and longevity, whilst melamine is ideal for families with children.

Determine the number of dinnerware pieces you require based on your household size and how frequently you host lunch and dinner parties at home. Also, always buy a bit more than you'll need as a buffer in case an accident occurs. 

 

8. Matched Set or Mix-and-Match

A matched set of tableware serves as a foundation for the table setting but only allows you to create a unified appearance. A variety of dinnerware patterns makes entertaining more versatile.

Color is the common denominator. Colors that are combined within a specific harmony, such as a combination of blue patterns or a match of gold adornment, are simple to mix and match. When a specific color is unavailable, combine it with a contrasting shade in a solid color. If all else fails, combine the design with transparent glass plates.

For a matching set have the same dinnerware pattern for each course, the entire table is arranged with similar pieces. 
 

Top Tips To  Care for Your Dinnerware

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1. Consider handwashing your dinnerware. It is advised that you hand wash your tableware to retain its quality. To gently clean each component, combine mild dishwashing soap, warm water, and a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers and aggressive cleaners that may harm the surface. To avoid or remove hard water marks, soak pieces in white vinegar for 3 minutes before rinsing.

2. When using a dishwasher to clean, make sure not to overload the rack and keep metal things away from your casual tableware, since even mild contact can scratch, chip, or break your plates. 

3. Ensure you properly dry your dinnerware. To avoid water stains and damage, properly dry your plates and bowls after washing. Use a clean, lint-free cloth or let the dinnerware dry in a well-ventilated location. Avoid stacking damp dishes, as this might cause chipping or sticking.

4. Avoid subjecting your tableware to extreme temperatures. Protect your dinnerware against abrupt temperature changes. Avoid exposing them to high temperatures, such as stovetops or ovens, as this can cause cracking or warping. Similarly, avoid immersing them in cold water to prevent thermal shock.

5. To reduce the danger of breakage, store your dinnerware in a secure and organized manner. To prevent scratching, place separators or felt cushions between stacked plates. To prevent inadvertent damage, store delicate parts separately and avoid overcrowding.
 

Conclusion

As you can see, there are quite a number of factors to consider when selecting your  dinnerware set. We hope this dinnerware purchasing guide has simplified your search or made you feel more empowered and confident in your decision-making when selecting dinnerware.

Explore the exquisite dinnerware sets offered at Joyye, as well as the latest home decor here.