Joybuy Insights

Choosing crockery and glasses: a practical guide for everyday use and entertaining

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.

Three common pitfalls when choosing crockery and glasses

1. The number of pieces does not always mean what you think

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:

  • The total number of pieces.
  • How many people the set is intended for.
  • The exact breakdown by type of plate or bowl.
  • Whether cups, coffee cups or glasses are included.

2. “Strong” does not automatically mean suitable for every appliance

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:

  • Dishwasher-safe crockery.
  • Microwave-safe crockery.
  • Use in the oven, freezer or fridge.
  • Temperature changes when using glasses.

Never use a product in an appliance unless this is explicitly stated.

3. Stylish design can have practical drawbacks

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.

Which specifications are important?

Material: stoneware, ceramic, porcelain or glass

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:

  • Water glasses of around 280 to 310 ml are suitable for water, juice and soft drinks.
  • Wine glasses with a capacity of 380 ml provide room for an appropriate serving of wine.
  • Double-walled glasses made from borosilicate glass are described in Bodum’s product information as suitable for hot and cold drinks, but always check the temperature limits.

Capacity and dimensions

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.

Care and temperature use

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.

Recommendations by usage profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Secret de Gourmet Colorama Dinnerware Set - 18 pcs, Glossy Mint Green

Secret de Gourmet Colorama Dinnerware Set - 18 pcs, Glossy Mint Green

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.

How this product avoids the pitfall

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.

Main benefit & advantages

18 pieces for six people; stoneware; microwave- and dishwasher-safe according to the product information.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Bodum Canteen Double Wall Glasses Set - 0.1L, 6 pcs

Bodum Canteen Double Wall Glasses Set - 0.1L, 6 pcs

Why it suits this profile: Ideal for coffee lovers and hosts who want to serve small hot or cold drinks in a distinctive way.

How this product avoids the pitfall

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.

Main benefit & advantages

Set of six; double-walled borosilicate glass; suitable for hot and cold drinks according to the brand’s product information.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent users
Secret de Gourmet Appetizer Set Arya - 4 pcs, Stoneware

Secret de Gourmet Appetizer Set Arya - 4 pcs, Stoneware

Why it suits this profile: Handy for drinks parties, tapas, dips and hot appetisers when entertaining.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The contents are clearly stated: one serving board and three bowls. The product information says that the set is dishwasher- and oven-safe.

Main benefit & advantages

Board with three bowls; ceramic material; suitable for snacks, tapas and hot dips.

Useful combinations for the Dutch table

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.

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.

Frequently asked questions about crockery and glasses

Which material is practical for everyday use?

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.

How many glasses do I need?

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.

How can I prevent cracks and wear?

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.