A new tableware set may look lovely online, but photos don’t always show how practical it is for everyday use. Will a plate fit in your dishwasher? Are the bowls big enough for soup or breakfast? And will there still be enough room in your kitchen cupboard?
When buying tableware, many people focus mainly on colour and price. These are useful starting points, but they won’t prevent every disappointing purchase. Here are three common pitfalls:
Compare how you’ll use your tableware, the materials and the care instructions before you buy, and you’ll be able to choose with confidence. Below, we cover the key things to consider for everyday use, entertaining guests and setting the table.
Porcelain tableware is often thinner and lighter than earthenware, while still offering a formal look. Always check the care instructions, though. The Secret de Gourmet Jasmin tableware set, for example, is made from porcelain, but the product information says its pieces are not suitable for the microwave, dishwasher or oven.
Ceramic tableware and earthenware give your table a more robust look. The glaze can vary from one product to another. With decorative plates featuring a reactive glaze, the colour and pattern may vary. This is a visual feature, not a guarantee that every piece will look identical.
Glass bowls are great for a light, transparent presentation, but they can be fragile. Wooden serving boards and bamboo products add warmth to your table, but are usually not dishwasher-safe. If you’re buying a combination product, check both materials: a bowl may be dishwasher-safe, while its wooden stand is best cleaned with a cloth.
Don’t rely on the icon or product title alone. Read the full care instructions:
An acacia wood serving board, for example, is suitable for cheese, tapas and nibbles, but not for the dishwasher. A marble set of coasters may be heat-resistant according to the product information, but should be cleaned with a damp cloth and without harsh cleaning products.
Measure the space available in your cupboard and compare it with the product dimensions. For a household of six, a complete tableware set is practical if it includes enough dinner plates and deep plates. The Jasmin dinner service consists of 6 dinner plates measuring 26.5 cm, 6 side plates measuring 19 cm and 6 deep plates measuring 20 cm.
These handy guidelines can help when you’re choosing extra pieces:
Why it suits this shopper: A compact addition for breakfast, yoghurt, fruit and small desserts. The set contains four 50 cl porcelain bowls.
The capacity and number of pieces are clearly stated. According to the product information, the bowls are suitable for the microwave and dishwasher.
Four bowls, a 50 cl capacity and porcelain construction. A good addition to your existing tableware.
Why it suits this shopper: For anyone who wants a coordinated table setting for six, with dinner plates, side plates and deep plates in one design.
The set contents, dimensions and capacity are clearly specified. Bear in mind the stated limitation: it’s not suitable for the oven, microwave or dishwasher.
An 18-piece set for 6 people, made from porcelain and including three types of plate.
Why it suits this shopper: Ideal if you regularly serve salads, hot dishes, desserts or nibbles and need a separate set of serving utensils.
The number of pieces and their functions are clearly stated: two salad servers, a serving spoon and a serving fork.
Four stainless steel pieces that are dishwasher-safe according to the product information.
Why it suits this shopper: A long wooden serving board for cheese, tapas, bread and nibbles when you’re entertaining or having drinks with friends.
Its dimensions of 70 x 18 cm make it easy to check how much space you’ll need. The board isn’t suitable for the dishwasher.
Acacia wood, a rectangular shape and plenty of length for serving a variety of nibbles side by side.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Start by thinking about how many people you’ll be serving and what’s on the menu. For everyday breakfast, breakfast bowls and side plates are often enough. For dinner with guests, add deep plates, serving bowls, a salad bowl and a cutlery set.
Also consider colour and material. White porcelain goes easily with coloured bowls or a wooden serving board. Marble and glass create a more contemporary look, while bamboo and acacia wood give your table a warmer feel. It’s best to choose one main material and use table accessories as accents.
Finally, check that every piece is safe for the way you plan to use it. A brand’s claims about durability or ease of use don’t replace the specific product information. Check the dimensions, material, dishwasher and microwave suitability, warnings and warranty terms. Under EU consumer rules, the legal guarantee is generally at least two years; additional rights may depend on your circumstances and national law.
A set with enough dinner plates and deep plates, plus bowls that are dishwasher-safe, is practical for everyday use. Also check that the pieces will fit in your dishwasher and kitchen cupboard.
For four people, it’s useful to have at least four dinner plates, four deep plates or bowls, and four side plates. If you often have guests, choose extra pieces or opt for a set for six.
Clean a wooden serving board with a damp cloth or wash it by hand, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t put it in the dishwasher unless the instructions say it’s safe to do so. Then let the wood dry thoroughly to help prevent unnecessary wear.