There you are, sitting on the sofa reading an email saying that you gotten a promotion or you closed a client or whatever other happy news that you can receive. This causes a celebration as you jump up and down for joy. Now you want to throw a party and celebrate your magnificent accomplishment. But wait, you notice you need some new tableware. But you don’t really know what tableware is best so you won’t have to waste money on the wrong set. You take a trip to Target or Bed Bath & Beyond and you stumble upon the kitchen & dining section. Hmm, what is the most convenient tableware to get? Stoneware Dinnerware set or Ceramic Dinnerware Set? First before you go shopping for dinnerware sets, you need to know the types since there is a variety range to choose from. Plus, I’m pretty sure you don’t want to spend all day standing in the aisle stuck on what to choose.
The Common Types of Dinnerware
The common types of dinnerware is important to know as there are a range of them.
- Earthenware
- Stoneware
- Porcelain
- Melamine
- Vitrified Glass
There are more types such as bone china but these are to list the common types and we will dive into each one so you can know what are your options and have a much open and better idea on what dinnerware is right and the most logical, convenient for your kitchen and your situation.
Stoneware-The Strong
If you are looking for durability and strength, then stoneware is the way to go. Do not get Earthenware, because earthenware is the exact opposite of stoneware unless you would like a a more cheap and affordable option. Stone ware is a type of ceramic that is non-porous which is made from stoneware clay that is fired at high temperatures that ranges from 2,010 degrees Fahrenheit to 2,370 degrees Fahrenheit! Talk about hot! A glass material is added to it so it can posses that strength quality. It is opaque and thicker than finer materials and does not absorb its contents. Also, it can be finished with nice glaze textures such as shiny, matte or satin. Stoneware is typically used for drinks, serving dishes and cookware because it can handle the temperatures of an oven and it holds heat very well. It is very long lasting up to decades even with every day use.
Stoneware is also chip resistant and is fine in the dishwasher or a microwave but be cautious because if there is a sudden change in temperature, that baby will crack!
Earthenware-The Cheap
If you are worried about money issues or looking for everyday use then Earthenware is for you. Earthenware is also a type of ceramic that is affordable and is also glazed and fired. It has a thick and heavy build but remember since it is the most affordable than any other dinnerware, the quality is less, So this make it not as durable and is very prone to chipping. It does stain and absorb liquids so you might not want to leave it in water or any other liquids for long periods of time. Have you seen that brownish-orange looking pottery that had maybe a kid’s artwork on there or you can tell it was hand painted? Well, my friend that is earthenware. If anything make sure you check to see if it is great for the dishwasher
Porcelain-The Elegant
You want to celebrate because of the good news you received right? Porcelain is for you, well it depends on the type of get together you want. Do you want a more fancy get together or do you want a causal get together? Porcelain is more on the elegant formal side so this option would be best for you if you are going for a formal right. Porcelain is made up of fine-particle clay with materials like kaolin, quartz and feldspar which makes this dinner ware durable and non-porous. Most porcelain is okay for the microwave and is oven safe but always check the label if otherwise. Most people just hand wash their porcelain.
Melamine-To The Rescue
Maybe you get frustrated sometimes and you throw plates or you children is rowdy and they run in the kitchen knocking plates off counters and all that horse playing causes a scene and a big mess. Melamine is great under these circumstances because they are made up a plastic material which is lightweight but it is sturdy. It is ideal for outdoors and rowdy children being that it is unbreakable. However, not like the other ceramics and shouldn’t be heated with food in it and it is not for the microwave or oven.
Vitrified Glass-The Indestructible
This ceramic is glass and is fired at a really high temperature so it is non-porous like stoneware and extremely durable. This glass will not break or chip even if you slip up and drop it on a hard floor. So if you are clumsy, this choice would be great and it is safe to use in the dishwasher and microwave.
Stoneware Vs. Ceramic
Now that we discussed the common types of ceramic, let’s look at the pros and cons and break it all down to help you pick a decision. Stoneware is another old form of ceramic which came after earthenware. Earthenware is the oldest of them all. Stoneware is very durable and Vitrified glass is durable also and just like stoneware it is okay to use in the dishwasher and microwave. Remember to always check the label so it says that it is okay to use in the dishwasher and microwave. Stoneware also has glass added to it so that it is waterproof and more durable than earthenware.
All these ceramics serve their purpose and is great depending on the setting and certain circumstances. It all boils down what is convenient for you. Hopefully, I hope this article broke down as far as helping you choose your dinnerware set. Happy shopping!
