The Best Dinner Plates

Buying Guide

A dinner plate is a plate on which the main course is served. They are typically 10.5 inches in diameter; however, it is becoming more common for plates’ diameter to be 11 to 12 inches.

There are countless dinner plate shape and color combinations. While the traditional design is a circular, white plate with a smaller indented circle in the center, plates can range from square to round plates with lipped edges and feature every color and pattern possible.

When shopping for new dinner plates, it is easy to get hung up on the design, but there are other important aspects to consider, such as material and maintenance.

Dinner plates can be made from porcelain, ceramic, plastic and glass, among other materials. When deciding on a material, consider the practicality. Sturdier materials such as plastic or durable layered glass are ideal if your household often breaks plates.

Look for phrases such as “chip” or “scratch-resistant.” These indicate that the plate is made from more durable materials and can withstand wear and tear better than more delicate materials.

The material also influences whether a plate is microwave, oven and freezer safe. If these aspects are essential to you, look for these phrases when shopping.

It is also vital to consider maintenance. Some plates are dishwasher safe, while others can only be washed by hand with warm water and soap.

When buying new dinner plates, be sure to choose plates that suit your aesthetic and your lifestyle.

• Consider whether porcelain, ceramic, plastic or glass plates best suit your needs.
• Only place a plate in the dishwasher, microwave or freezer if the manufacturer states it is safe.
• “Chip-resistant” and “scratch-resistant” plates will look new for longer.
• Durable materials for plates include plastic and layered glass.
• Use dinner plates as an opportunity to have fun with colors and patterns.
• Determine the number of plates in a set that best suits your needs.