Porcelain Dinnerware: What type of dinnerware is most durable?
Navigation
- Durability of Porcelain
- Durability of Stoneware
- Durability of Ceramic
- Durability of Melamine
- Durability of Bone China
- Durability of Plastic
- Conclusion
When you're shopping for dinnerware, whether casual or formal, there are a variety of materials to choose from, including Porcelain, stoneware, bone China, and pottery. Each material has its own characteristics, features, price points, and yes, drawbacks. To make the best decision when choosing a tablecloth, it's a good idea to know the pros and cons of each material. That way, you'll be better educated when shopping for dinnerware.
Durability of Porcelain
Porcelain is generally known for its milky white color. However, now some companies that make black and blue-tinted porcelain clay. Porcelain dinnerware is a non-porous form of ceramic and is known for its fascinating durability. Because the material is fired at high temperatures, porcelain can be microwave, oven, and freezer-resistant. It can be placed inside the dishwasher without cracking and breaking.
Owning fine porcelain is a good return on your investment and can give you the best kitchenware for your money. Porcelain is a durable material. Fine porcelain is considered to be the most durable dinnerware available in the market. Porcelain dinnerware is available in different shapes, colors, and sizes.
Durability of Stoneware
Stoneware is another type of fired ceramic dinnerware. It is slightly more durable than earthenware because the clay is fired at a higher temperature and usually contains a vitreous (glass) material for strength. The body of stoneware is thicker and more opaque than finer materials such as porcelain and china and can be finished with a lustrous texture such as glossy, satin, or matte.
Stoneware is commonly used in casual and everyday space settings. Most good quality stoneware is very versatile in use and easy to maintain. It can go in the microwave, dishwasher, oven, and freezer, but always check with the manufacturer for the specific specifications of your dinnerware. However, it should not be exposed to sudden or extreme temperature changes. Ironstone is a type of stoneware and the most reliable brands are Pfaltzgraff, Dansk (Lenox), and Fiesta (Homer Laughlin).
Durability of Ceramic
Ceramic vs Porcelain, which is better for your kitchen? They are similar but also different materials. Although they are both smooth and strong, they are also easily brittle.
Porcelain is a very refined type of ceramic, while ceramic is made from clay heated to a very high temperature and hardened. Ceramics absorb more moisture because they are less dense. Porcelain, on the other hand, is more durable, thinner, and more expensive. However, they are both heat and scratch-resistant. It is not easy to decide between the two materials without knowing the details.
Ceramic
Ceramics is a general name for any dish made of clay, which is formed and then hardened by heat. Sometimes, clay is mixed with some water and other materials.
Ceramic dinnerware is sticky yet durable, hard, and corrosion-resistant. Unless, of course, you slip one on the floor. Ceramic dinnerware is oven and microwave safe. It means ceramic is perfect for cooking different dishes at high temperatures. Ceramics are used not only for making plates, mugs, and bowls but also for cooking utensils like frying pans. Generally, ceramic dishes are covered with a glaze that adds additional color to the dishes.
Porcelain
Porcelain is a type of ceramic that is made at extremely high temperatures. Therefore, it is strong, translucent, and white. However, with modern technology, you can barely see the difference between stoneware and porcelain. They are both made using the same technique.
The main difference is the color. Classic ceramic cookware is hard, strong, durable, heat resistant, and non-reactive to other chemicals. However, they are capable of breaking under different conditions.
Durability of Melamine
Melamine dinnerware is virtually indestructible and chip-resistant, yet it can be used for formal events such as weddings and dinner gatherings. If you're looking for unbreakable plates, melamine is the way to go. This plastic material is lightweight but has a strong, flexible feel and glossy finish. It is virtually unbreakable and ideal for children and outdoor use. It is usually dishwasher safe, but is not suitable for microwaves or ovens and should not be heated with food in it. Melamine is BPA (bisphenol-a) free. Zak! Design is a good brand for Melamine dinnerware.
Durability of Bone China
Bone ash (made from animal bones) is mixed with porcelain clay and fired at a slightly lower temperature than porcelain to produce a material that is very light, Delicate in feel, and translucent with a milky appearance.
Despite its delicate presentation, bone china is actually the strongest and most durable ceramic dinnerware. Most bone china is dishwasher safe and, as long as it doesn't have metal banding, can go in the microwave and oven. Bone china, along with porcelain, can be used daily or reserved for a more formal dining occasion. Brands to look for include Royal Doulton, Wedgwood, and Mikasa.
Durability of Plastic
Dinnerware made of plastic will not break easily. It is more affordable, usually available in beautiful colors and designs, lightweight, and easy to keep clean. They are the best option for serving guests without worrying about misuse and breakage. The most common types of plastic dinnerware are melamine, Tritan, polypropylene, and SAN.
Unlike ceramics, your ideal plastic plates are more durable. Because of their structure, they are hard to break, strong enough to hold large meals and some can be disposable – thrown away after use. Most plastic dinnerware is microwave and dishwasher-safe.
When choosing the right plastic dinnerware for your event, make sure it doesn't bend easily, can be used to serve hot food, and is leak-proof.
Conclusion
The measure of durability can sometimes be subjective, but in the materials department, a long-lasting item is generally considered durable. Additionally, properties like break resistant and scratch-resistant add to the durability of an item. Among the most popular options for dinnerware, most exhibit beautiful aesthetic qualities as a must on any dining table. However, the quality of durability may vary from material to material. Before buying dinnerware you should have a look at its durability parameters.
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