Setting for Eight, Dinner for Two by B.G. Thomas

“For more delicate or oddly shaped pieces, like milk and sugar servers, handwashing is always safest,” she notes. When serveware is piled inside the sink itself there’s less room to do the rinsing or washing and that’s when accidental clanks and chips tend to happen.

As a precaution, stack dirty dishes on the countertop after a meal to prevent damage. The key is being careful about loading and unloading and those times when you do hand wash. “Don’t be afraid to put your dishes in the dishwasher if it’s recommended,” says Forbes. CareĪlways follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Check the details or label before you buy. More and more companies are putting a fresh spin on these ceramics so you can’t always tell what a dinnerware set is made of. But don’t buy based on look and feel alone, she warns. “Stoneware tends to be thicker with a more earthy appearance, while porcelain is typically thinner with a more glossy appearance,” Forbes explains. “You want to make sure you’re buying quality materials that will last.” Ceramics like stoneware and porcelain are fired at very high temperatures and hardened, making them less porous and more durable overall. “For everyday use, you want something durable,” says Kristi Forbes, Senior Vice President at 41 Madison, home of the New York Tabletop Show. If you’re looking for a set with a fresh design that’s more affordable, we recommend the IKEA FÄRGKLAR 24-piece Dinnerware Set ( view at IKEA), which is also microwave-safe and available in six soft colors, plus two modern finishes.

Each piece is sturdy yet sleek, comes in coordinating colors, and can be frozen or heated, which is a major plus when you’re cooking or cleaning up a meal.

The Year & Day Dinnerware Set ( view at Year & Day) is our top choice because of its hardworking, minimalist design.

Setting for Eight, Dinner for Two by B.G. Thomas