A new dinnerware set may seem straightforward to choose, until you discover that sets vary considerably in material, size and care requirements. An attractive colour says little about everyday use. An 18-piece dinnerware set may also appear complete, while actually consisting only of plates, for example. And a product with a sturdy appearance is not automatically suitable for use in the oven or dishwasher.
This buying guide helps you compare ceramic dinnerware, porcelain dinnerware, an 18-piece dinnerware set and individual additions based on verifiable product information.
An 18-piece set often consists of six dinner plates, six soup plates and six dessert or breakfast plates. That does not mean it also includes bowls, cups or serving dishes. Always check the complete contents of the packaging.
A dinnerware set for 6 people is particularly practical when each piece is included six times. A 12-piece set may be sufficient for a four-person household, while a larger household may need extra dinner plate sets or bowls.
Not every plate and bowl is suitable for everyday use in the kitchen. Look specifically for:
Product information may vary between different versions. Always check the properties of the set you have chosen, rather than relying only on those of a similar model.
Green dinnerware, white dinnerware and Japanese dinnerware each suit a different table setting. However, size, stackability and weight are just as important. Large plates take up more cupboard space. Heavy earthenware may feel reassuringly solid, but is less convenient when loading and unloading a full dishwasher.
Porcelain dinnerware generally has a smooth, refined appearance. Secret de Gourmet’s Green Harmony dinnerware, for example, is an 18-piece porcelain set with flat plates measuring 26.5 cm, soup plates measuring 19 cm and dessert plates measuring 20 cm. The product description specifies a green colour and a modern design.
Ceramic dinnerware is a broad category that includes earthenware and stoneware. The Colorama dinnerware is made from stoneware and finished in glossy mint green. The set includes plates for six people and has a 27.5 cm dinner plate, a 19.5 cm dessert or breakfast plate and a 20.5 cm soup plate.
Pay extra attention to the care instructions for hand-painted or decorative patterns. A smooth glaze is practical, but that does not automatically mean every product is suitable for use in the oven or freezer.
A dinner plate measuring around 26 to 28 cm provides plenty of room for a main course, but will not fit in every dishwasher or kitchen cupboard. Soup plates are suitable for soup, pasta and rice dishes. A 50 cl bowl set is more useful for breakfast, yoghurt, snacks or small meals.
Also check whether the pieces are stackable. This saves space and reduces the chance of having to deal with different sizes every day.
Before buying, check whether the product page explicitly states that the set is microwave- and dishwasher-safe. The Colorama set lists both properties, but according to the product specifications it is not suitable for use in the oven or freezer. Secret de Gourmet’s Jasmin set is made from porcelain, but is specifically listed as unsuitable for the microwave, dishwasher or oven.
For dinnerware with a serving board, hand washing may sometimes be the better option. The Bamboo Serving Board set contains four earthenware snack bowls and a bamboo board. The product information recommends hand washing to help extend the set’s lifespan.
Why it suits this profile: This 18-piece set provides dinnerware for 6 people and combines a familiar arrangement with a striking mint-green colour. This makes it suitable as a first complete dinnerware set.
The packaging clearly states that there are 18 pieces, and according to the product information the set is microwave- and dishwasher-safe. The oven and freezer restrictions are also clearly indicated.
18 pieces, suitable for six people, microwave-safe and dishwasher-safe. The dinnerware is made from stoneware.
Why it suits this profile: Porcelain and a calm green shade are ideal for anyone looking for a complete set with a polished appearance for everyday dining and entertaining.
The key measurements are listed for each type of plate. This allows you to check in advance whether the 26.5 cm dinner plates will fit in your cupboard and dishwasher.
18-piece porcelain set with flat, soup and dessert plates. The pieces come in three different sizes for serving multiple courses.
Why it suits this profile: This set is designed for drinks parties, tapas and small snacks. It complements existing dinnerware without requiring you to replace a complete set straight away.
The contents are clearly specified: one board and three bowls. The set is intended for serving, rather than everyday use as a complete dinner plate set.
Four pieces, bowls measuring approximately 9.5 cm and a serving board. The product information states that the set is dishwasher-safe and made from ceramic.
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.
A typical 18-piece dinnerware set contains six dinner plates, six soup plates and six dessert or breakfast plates. Always check the contents, as some sets count different pieces towards the total.
Choose a set that clearly states it is dishwasher-safe and microwave-safe. Also consider the material and dimensions. A set that is not suitable for use in the oven or freezer can still be practical for everyday meals, as long as you do not need those functions.
Its lifespan depends on use, impacts, temperature changes and care. Porcelain, ceramic and stoneware are fragile materials. Stop using damaged plates or bowls and avoid sudden changes in temperature, such as placing a cold plate straight into a hot microwave. The statutory guarantee for the products mentioned is at least two years; this is separate from their actual service life.