Joybuy Insights

Choosing crockery and cutlery: how to find a set to suit your table

Choosing a new set of crockery and cutlery seems straightforward. However, differences in materials, dimensions and care often only become important after purchase. A dinnerware set may look beautiful online, but prove less practical if the plates do not fit in your dishwasher, the capacity of a pasta bowl is disappointing or there is not enough cutlery for guests.

So pay particular attention to these three common pitfalls:

  1. Attractive design without practical information
    A pattern or colour catches the eye, but says nothing about the weight, dimensions or stackability. Always check how much space the set will take up in a kitchen cupboard.

  2. Unclear dishwasher and microwave suitability
    Not every porcelain dinnerware set is automatically dishwasher-safe. For example, the Secret de Gourmet Jasmin set states that it is not suitable for the dishwasher, microwave or oven. That may be fine for occasional use, but less convenient for a busy household.

  3. Too few pieces for actual use
    An 18-piece set often consists of six dinner plates, six deep plates and six dessert or breakfast plates. Cutlery is usually not included. So, for a complete table setting, you may still need to buy a cutlery set and serving items.

Which tableware features should you check?

1. Material: porcelain, ceramic or stainless steel

Porcelain dinnerware often has a smooth surface and a light, refined appearance. It is suitable for everyday use and entertaining, but remains breakable. When choosing decorative patterns, check that the care instructions are clear.

Ceramic bowls and plates generally have a slightly more robust appearance. They work well on an informal table and are available in plain colours, glazed finishes and raised patterns. Pay attention to the precise product information: terms such as “strong” or “durable” are only useful when supported by verifiable details, such as the material, thickness or dishwasher and oven compatibility.

Stainless steel, such as 18/10 steel used in certain WMF cutlery sets, is practical for everyday use. It is not suitable for the microwave or oven. According to WMF’s product description, the surface treatment is designed to provide greater resistance to scratches and wear; this is a brand claim, not a guarantee that signs of use will never appear.

2. Dimensions and shape

A dinner plate measuring around 26 to 27 cm provides room for a main course, but also takes up more space in the dishwasher and cupboard. A deep bowl measuring 19 to 20 cm is useful for soup, pasta or a smaller meal. According to the product description, a wide pasta bowl measuring 8.5 inches is also intended for salads, breakfast, fruit and oven-baked dishes.

Pay attention to the shape:

  • Deep bowls are useful for sauces and dishes containing liquid.
  • Wide, shallow pasta bowls make pasta and salad easier to arrange neatly.
  • Stackable plates and bowls save cupboard space.
  • A salad bowl measuring approximately 22 cm is suitable for smaller portions or side dishes; check whether you are buying a single bowl or a set.

3. Number of people and care

For a two-person household, a 10-piece tableware set may be sufficient. If you regularly entertain guests, a dinnerware set for 6 people or an 18-piece dinnerware set may be more suitable. Do not just look at the number of pieces, but also at what the set contains.

Also check:

  • Is the dinnerware dishwasher-safe?
  • Can it be used in the microwave?
  • Is the material suitable for the oven?
  • Are the knives, forks and spoons suitable for everyday use?
  • Does wooden servingware need to be washed by hand?

For example, a wooden serving board made from acacia wood is suitable for cheese, tapas and appetisers, but the 18 × 70 cm presentation board mentioned is not dishwasher-safe. A ceramic tapas set, on the other hand, may be dishwasher-safe if this is explicitly stated in the product information.

Recommended choices for different usage profiles

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Secret de Gourmet Green Harmony Porcelain Dinnerware Set - 18 pcs, Green

Secret de Gourmet Green Harmony Porcelain Dinnerware Set - 18 pcs, Green

Why it suits this profile: This 18-piece set includes dinnerware for six people and combines a green colour with a modern design. It is a practical choice when you want to complete the basics of your tableware in a single purchase.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies the quantities and sizes: flat plates measuring 26.5 cm, deep plates measuring 19 cm and dessert plates measuring 20 cm. This means you know exactly what you will receive in advance.

Main benefit & highlights

Porcelain, 18 pieces and a clear layout for six people. Check the current care instructions before purchasing.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
WMF Sentic Cutlery Set - 30 Pieces for 6 Persons, Stainless Steel

WMF Sentic Cutlery Set - 30 Pieces for 6 Persons, Stainless Steel

Why it suits this profile: A complete cutlery set for six people is suitable for everyday meals and formal occasions. The set also includes cake forks and coffee spoons.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The contents are clearly specified: six forks, knives, spoons, cake forks and coffee spoons. This prevents you from unexpectedly needing additional pieces.

Main benefit & highlights

Stainless steel, 30 pieces and dishwasher-safe according to the product details. The set comes with a cutlery box.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent users
Dafuceramic 8.5Inch Pasta Bowls, 36OZ Serving Bowls, Salad Bowls Set of 4 Ceramic

Dafuceramic 8.5Inch Pasta Bowls, 36OZ Serving Bowls, Salad Bowls Set of 4 Ceramic

Why it suits this profile: The wide bowls are designed for pasta, salad, soup, fruit and other generous portions. They are stackable, making them suitable for kitchens where cupboard space is limited.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The dimensions are listed as 8.5 × 8.5 × 2.4 inches per bowl. The product description also states that they are suitable for the dishwasher, microwave, fridge and oven.

Main benefit & highlights

Set of four ceramic bowls, stackable design and a wide shape suitable for a variety of dishes.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

How to combine crockery and cutlery at the table

Start with the basics: a dinner plate, a deep plate or pasta bowl, and a dessert plate. Then add a matching cutlery set. For six people, 30 pieces are often enough for an everyday table setting. A 66-piece WMF Corvo set also includes serving cutlery, a soup ladle, carving fork and cake server. This is particularly useful for multi-course dinners.

For appetisers, you can add a serving board or tapas set. Wooden boards create a warm look, while ceramic snack bowls are generally easier to put in the dishwasher. Always check whether hand washing is recommended for wooden accessories and allow the material to dry thoroughly.

Frequently asked questions about crockery and cutlery

How much crockery do I need for six people?

An 18-piece dinnerware set usually contains three pieces per person: a dinner plate, deep plate and dessert or breakfast plate. This is a basic set for everyday use. If you often entertain guests, you may want to buy additional dinner plates, bowls and cutlery.

Which material is suitable for everyday use?

That depends on your care routine. Porcelain and ceramic are suitable for many everyday tables, but remain breakable. Stainless steel cutlery is practical for regular use. Always check separately whether the item is dishwasher-safe or suitable for use in the microwave or oven.

How can I prevent damage to crockery and cutlery?

Do not use abrasive cleaning products and avoid sudden temperature changes with ceramic and porcelain. Dry stainless steel cutlery after washing to help minimise water marks. Replace crockery with cracks or sharp damage.