It is hard to imagine a kitchen without cutlery. When it comes to selecting cutlery, the abundance of options on the market sometimes confuses us.
What is the proper cutlery set to begin with? Should I prioritize aesthetics over function or vice versa? What is the best material for a cutlery set? How many cutlery sets do I need? These are some of the questions that come to mind when shopping for cutlery.
This article provides tips on choosing the right cutlery. Continue reading to learn about the points to consider when selecting the right cutlery set for your home.
- Establish your needs
Before selecting a cutlery set for your home, it is best to determine what you need. You may need a basic set containing spoons, forks, and knives. Or a canteen, the most comprehensive cutlery set, maybe the best choice to meet your needs.
Cutlery sets are diverse regarding what and how many pieces they contain. Some cutlery sets are just for serving food, whereas others have pieces for meal prep, such as a chef’s knife. There are cutlery sets containing 16, 32, 48, and 89 pieces of silverware and serving tools. Which one you need depends on how many people live in that household and the general lifestyle habits.
A grand set is perfect if you like throwing dinner parties for family and friends. For a small family, a 16—or 32-piece set would do the trick. Sometimes, you want the best of both worlds. In that case, you can buy a basic cutlery set for daily use and another one for special occasions.
- Arrange your budget
Cutlery sets are diverse in terms of size and material and also come at various prices. Brand, material, size, and availability are among the factors determining the price. When you visit stores or search online markets, you come across cutlery sets in a wide price range.
Especially if you search online stores through price criteria, the price difference between inexpensive and pricy cutlery sets is apparent. The wide price range can complicate the decision-making process.
The most expensive cutlery set is not necessarily the best option. It’s better to decide according to your specific needs and look for cost-efficient cutlery options.
- Decide on the material
Aside from disposable ones, cutlery is generally made with stainless steel, sterling silver, and polycarbonate. The most commonly used material is stainless steel. Sterling silver is a more luxurious choice, but it comes at a cost. Polycarbonate cutlery is the most inexpensive alternative. This option is better for homes with children and people who love outdoor activities.
For deciding on the material of the cutlery set, you should consider the following:
- Durability
- Maintenance
- Lifestyle needs
For each factor, let’s examine the options for stainless steel, sterling silver, and polycarbonate cutlery.
- Stainless steel
Most cutlery sets are made with stainless steel. Stainless steel cutlery is a good choice for daily use because it is budget-friendly and durable. It also requires very little or no maintenance. Stainless steel cutlery is dishwasher-safe and compatible with almost any cleaning product.
Stainless steel cutlery has some variations. Most sets are either 18/10 or 18/8. These numbers show the chromium and nickel content of stainless steel. 18/10 stainless steel is composed of 18 % chromium and 10 % nickel. 18/8, on the other hand, has 8 % nickel.
Both are good options, reflecting the strength and longevity of stainless steel. However, 18/10 is more durable and has a more shiny appearance. 18/8 is generally more budget-friendly.
- Sterling silver
As the premium kind, sterling silver cutlery is perfect for special occasions. Sterling silver is an alloy containing 92,5 % silver and 7,5 % copper. It’s also called 925 sterling silver, reflecting the silver content of the material.
Sterling silver cutlery sets are cherished for their value and aesthetics, and families pass them down from generation to generation. While hand-crafted sterling silver cutlery is the most valuable, mass-produced sterling silver cutlery is also a luxurious product.
Despite being a durable material, sterling silver requires some maintenance. It’s generally not dishwasher safe. Experts recommend hand-washing sterling silver cutlery right after use with warm water and soap. They also recommend thoroughly drying the sterling silver flatware before storing it.
- Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate cutlery is the most affordable option. It’s reusable, dishwasher safe, easy to clean, and highly resistant to staining, making it perfect for outdoor use such as camps, picnics, and barbeques.
Polycarbonate cutlery is safe for children, especially toddlers. That’s why having a small polycarbonate cutlery set is a smart choice for gatherings with children.
Although polycarbonate cutlery is reusable, it does not have the lifespan of other cutlery alternatives. However, its affordability alleviates this short lifespan.
Selecting the right cutlery set for your home is important and does not have to be daunting. First, determine your needs and budget, then search for alternatives. With the right cutlery set, the eating experience will be elevated, both aesthetically and functionally.