When choosing a cutlery set, considerations such as durability, price, and style all play a part in the decision process. The material the cutlery is made of, the overall number of utensils, and the specific pieces included in the cutlery set are also points to compare. All of these factors should be taken into consideration, though some may be more important to you than others.
In order to select the best cutlery you must first evaluate what you will be using the cutlery for. For instance, everyday kitchen utensils need to be more durable than silverware that will be used only on holidays or special occaisions. Stainless steel is one of the most common materials used to make silverware for every day use because it can withstand daily usage, requires minimal care, and is dishwasher safe. Other materials, such as sterling silver, are also sturdy but require special care to avoid pitting and tarnishing.
Price also plays a role in choosing a cutlery set, but choosing by price alone isn't always a good idea. Some sets that are cheap are not well made and may not last as long as a set that is moderately priced. Generally, cutlery with plastic handles is the least expensive, followed by stainless steel and silver plate. Sterling silver is usually the most expensive of all flatware. This price scale provides a good rule of thumb, but there are instances when the price ranges overlap.
Design and style of the cutlery may be one of the most important factors in choosing the best cutlery set. You want a set that will complement your dishes, and you probably do not want to purchase a cutlery set that you don't like just because it is durable and fits into your budget. When looking at cutlery, choose pieces that stand out and that you immediately feel drawn too. Hold the individual pieces to see if they seem sturdy and feel comfortable in your hand. Some patterns may be visually appealing, but they may be too heavy, too flimsy, or feel uncomfortable in your hand.
Decide how many pieces of cutlery you need, and choose a set that provides enough utensils. Some sets include only the basic place settings, while others may include a hostess set of serving spoons. Other bonus features sometimes included with cutlery sets are a utensil caddy or a drawer storage container. If you use extra pieces like iced tea spoons, look for a set that includes the extra pieces you are looking for or that makes them available for purchase separately.
