Choosing a new dinnerware set or set of drinking glasses may seem straightforward. Yet many shoppers are swayed by an appealing colour, a low price or a promise such as “extra strong”, without checking the key details. The result: not enough pieces, glasses that are not dishwasher-safe or plates that cannot be used in the microwave.
With this guide, you can compare crockery and glasses based on verifiable product specifications. That way, you can choose more confidently for everyday use, a family household, dinner parties or a specific purpose such as tapas, coffee or children’s mealtimes.
An 18-piece dinnerware set sounds generous, but it usually consists of six dinner plates, six side plates and six soup plates. Coffee cups, mugs and glasses are often not included. A 16-piece dinnerware set may include mugs, for example, but be suitable for four people.
So always check:
Ceramic, earthenware, stoneware and porcelain have different properties. Even products made from the same material can have different usage instructions. For example, a porcelain dinnerware set may not be suitable for the dishwasher or microwave, while a ceramic set may be specified as suitable for both appliances.
Look for the specific symbols and product information covering:
Never use a product in an appliance unless this is explicitly stated.
Dark plates make light-coloured dishes stand out, but scratches and limescale marks may be more visible. Relief details or hand-painted patterns add character, but may require more care when cleaning. With glasses, a slim shape looks elegant on the table, but may be less suitable for everyday use in a busy household.
So do not look only at colour and shape. Also consider capacity, dimensions, stackability and care requirements.
Stoneware is a ceramic material with a relatively robust look and a heavier feel. The Secret de Gourmet Colorama dinnerware set, for example, weighs 9.65 kg and consists of 18 pieces for six people. The product details specify a diameter of 27.5 cm for the dinner plates, 19.5 cm for the side plates and 20.5 cm for the soup plates.
Porcelain dinnerware is often thinner and lighter in appearance. However, always check the care information. The Secret de Gourmet Jasmin dinnerware set consists of 18 porcelain pieces for six people, but according to the product information it is not specified as suitable for the microwave, oven or dishwasher.
When choosing glassware, focus mainly on capacity and intended use:
A 36 cl glass is useful for water, cocktails and soft drinks, while a 15 cl glass is mainly suitable as an espresso or small dessert glass. Stackable water glasses are handy for everyday use if you have limited cupboard space.
For plates, diameter and depth are key. A 20 cm soup plate is different to use from a wide 8.5-inch pasta bowl. Also check whether a plate fits in your dishwasher while leaving enough room for other dishes.
The term dishwasher-safe does not mean that every programme or temperature is ideal. Place glassware securely and avoid hard contact with metal pans or cutlery. With double-walled glasses, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
The same applies to microwave use: only use dinnerware that is explicitly stated to be microwave-safe. A product may be dishwasher-safe but not suitable for the microwave or oven.
Why it suits this profile: A complete 18-piece dinnerware set for six people, in a striking mint green colour with clear usage information for everyday use.
The packaging clearly states which three plate sizes are included. According to the product details, the dinnerware is suitable for the dishwasher and microwave, but not for the oven or freezer.
18 pieces for six people; stoneware; microwave- and dishwasher-safe according to the product information.
Why it suits this profile: Ideal for coffee lovers and hosts who want to serve small hot or cold drinks in a distinctive way.
The capacity is just 0.1 litres, so you will not accidentally buy these as large water glasses. According to Bodum’s product information, the glasses are suitable for the dishwasher, microwave and oven up to 176 °C.
Set of six; double-walled borosilicate glass; suitable for hot and cold drinks according to the brand’s product information.
Why it suits this profile: Handy for drinks parties, tapas, dips and hot appetisers when entertaining.
The contents are clearly stated: one serving board and three bowls. The product information says that the set is dishwasher- and oven-safe.
Board with three bowls; ceramic material; suitable for snacks, tapas and hot dips.
For a family, you can complement a dinnerware set with a set of six drinking glasses. The Secret de Gourmet Rodrig water glasses have a capacity of 280 ml, are stackable and, according to the product information, dishwasher-safe.
For a dinner with wine, four 380 ml Alpina wine glasses pair well with a six-piece dinnerware set. If you mainly serve coffee, you could choose the 150 ml Bodum BISTRO espresso cups. For families with young children, a children’s dinnerware set with a plate, bowl, cup and spoon is more practical than fragile porcelain. The Atmosphera silicone dinnerware set consists of these four pieces and, according to the product details, is suitable for the dishwasher and microwave.
When adding complementary items, look out for colour differences between collections. Mint green, white, black and multicolour do not automatically work together as one coordinated set. Ideally, order one set first and check the colour and finish before expanding your tableware collection.
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.
That depends on your household. Stoneware and ceramic feel sturdy, but are relatively heavy. Porcelain has a refined appearance, but care requirements vary by product. Always check the dishwasher, microwave and oven information instead of relying solely on the material.
For a household of four, four to six water glasses are a practical starting point. If you regularly have guests, a set of six or more is more convenient. Only add wine glasses or small coffee cups if you actually use them, helping you avoid filling your cupboards with tableware that rarely gets used.
Avoid sudden changes in temperature, stack crockery carefully and check glasses for hairline cracks. Do not use damaged plates or glasses. When using a microwave, oven, freezer or dishwasher, always follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions.