Dinnerware Buying Guide

Before selecting your new dinnerware service, be sure to think about the following points. Check the size of your cupboard so you know what size plate will fit inside. Equally if you have a dishwasher or want to store your plates on a plate rack, make sure you don't get plates or dishes that are too large to fit. Check to see what's included in the set - are the mugs or cups the size you need, do you want pasta or salad bowls, what about oven to table and serving ware? Lastly, it's a good idea to check that the dinnerware you are interested in isn't discontinued - or about to be. You don't want to be stuck with part of a set or be unable to replace chipped or broken items.

Good everyday dinnerware is mocrowave and dishwasher safe. It will handle daily use and large family dinners. An everyday plate is going to be budget-friendly and easily replaceable. Dinnerware for special occassions is going to be of porcelain or fine china and will probably be at the higher end of a budget. A cross-functional place setting can be used at the everyday family dinner and can be dressed up with other tableware for special occasions.

Once you determine how you will use your dinnerware, look around at your decor. Is it modern or traditional? Are there bright colours that you want to subdue with neutral coloured china? Or vice versa, you might have a neutral coloured room so you may want to add splashes of colour with your china. From earthenware as accent pieces to functional white bone china to patterned or coloured china, the style of dinnerware you choose can truly reflect the personality of your family and your home.

Porcelain: A hard, white, translucent clay body, usually with a very white and smooth surface when covered in a clear glaze. Porcelain is not reactive, so virtually any food can be stored in it. Generally, porcelain is dishwasher, freezer and microwave safe - making it suitable for everyday use.

Bone China: Bone China is a type of porcelain that is composed of bone ash, feldspar and kaolin. Bone China is produced using a vitrifying process that makes the surface tough, glassy and non-porous, providing durability and chip resistance. Bone China has a beautiful pure vivid white translucency, and can provide a perfect base for more extensive table decoration by allowing other colours to stand out. Traditionally, bone china was saved for special occasions, however due to it's strength and durability, and the fact that most bone china is dishwasher safe, it can be used everyday.

Fine China: Fine China is a type of porcelain, but tends to be thinner and more translucent. However, it remains durable and is usually dishwasher safe.

Earthenware: Earthenware is one of the oldest materials used in pottery. Eartheware is clay fired at lower temperaturs and does not become vitreous, so earthenware will always need to be glazed to ensure it is non-porous. Earthenware may sometimes be as thin as bone china and other porcelains, although often it has a more organic and natural feel that may fit a more casual lifestyle. Even though it is hard-wearing, it's best to hand wash carefully to avoid chipping.

Stoneware: Stoneware often has unique qualities and textures. Less durable than porcelain, stoneware is fired at lower temperatures (but still higher than earthenware). It's popular and affordable choice for everyday dinnerware as cookware and serveware.

Often the amount and type of decoration will determine whether or not the dinnerware it is microwave safe. You can't put anything with gold, silver or other metallic trims or accents in the microwave.

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Do you have a question? Why not email our Product Advisor at productadvisor@heals.co.uk