Getting a Good Cutlery Set For Your Home

If you want a good cutlery set for your home, but were not fortunate enough to inherit one, you will have to purchase your own. But how do you tell what is ‘good’, and how do you know that what you are buying is worth the money you are paying?

Not all cutlery sets are equal. The materials used, the way it is made, and the decoration can determine price and quality. If you can, buy your flatware at a store where you can look at and hold it. Quality cutlery will feel good in your hand and have an elegant polish. It should come with a warranty and a Good Housekeeping seal of approval.

Look for flatware that is made with 18/10 metal. This means that the metal has 18% chromium and 10% nickel. Some have less nickel, but the higher the amount of nickel, the more protection it will have from corrosion.

Flatware is made by two processes. The first method is called forged. The pieces are molded for a smoother finish. They are heavier, stronger, and safer, and they don’t damage easily. Stainless steel would be treated and sealed at this point to resist tarnishing.

Die cut or stamped cutlery, on the other hand, is cut from lower quality metal and then formed. It has rougher edges, is not generally treated, so it will stain eventually, and can have contaminants in the metal. They cost less than forged.

The cutlery’s purpose should guide your choice. Stainless steel is good for daily use. It doesn’t need constant polishing, but it is not stain proof. It may need cleaning with a stainless steel cleanser. Nickel-plated flatware needs polishing and is not good for daily use. Repeated exposure to nickel can be dangerous. Pewter contains lead, and should never contact food. It is best for display only.

Sterling silver stains and must be polished, but is beautiful and has an elegant shine. Silver polish is toxic, so use hydrogen peroxide, vinegar, lemon juice, or baking soda to clean it. Gold-plated cutlery needs the same care as sterling silver, but the metal plating may become damaged.

After choosing the type of cutlery, there is the design to consider. Cutlery sets come in patterns or series so you can order replacements or add matching pieces later on. The three main styles are: classic, with simple shapes and little decoration; contemporary, including geometric and Greek designs and modern art deco; and traditional, which includes flowers and scrollwork. Buy at least 8 settings for entertaining.

Store nickel, sterling silver, and gold-plated cutlery in a fabric-lined wooden box to protect it from damage. Cutlery should be insured separately or listed specifically in your homeowner’s insurance.

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