All about PLATES: All kinds of DISHES are essential to any kitchen or dining room. They come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each having unique benefits and aesthetics. Whether setting the table for a relaxed supper or an elegant soirée, the right choice of dishes can heighten the dining experience. Let’s explore the world of dining plates and turn up how to choose the best ones for your needs.
All types of crockery plates
DINNER DISHES
The most common type of dish is the dinner plate. Normally used for the main course. They are generally about 10 to 12 inches in diameter. These plates can be made from different materials, including porcelain, ceramic, glass, wood and even metal.
SALAD DISHES
Salad plates are small in size than dinner dishes , generally about 7 to 8 inches in diameter. They are ideally for serving salads, appetizers, or desserts. Salad plates often characterize to intricate designs and patterns to tribute the main dinnerware.
BREAD DISHES
Bread plates are even smaller, generally around 5 to 6 inches in diameter. They are utilized for serving bread, butter, or small appetizers. These plates can add a sprinkle of elegance to your table and dinnerware.
SOUP BOWLS
Technically bowls are not dishes, bowls or soup bowls are an important part of a complete dining set. They come in different shapes and sizes, from shallow bowls to deep ones, perfect for serving dipping, soups, stews, and pasta.
MATERIALS
PORCELAIN
Porcelain is the first and most popular choice for dining plates due to its longevity and elegant appearance. It is non-porous, waterproof, and sealed making it resistant to stains and easy to clean. Porcelain dishes are generally used in formal dining settings
CERAMIC
Ceramic dishes are versatile, and variable and come in a wide range of designs, patterns, and colors. They are cheap and more affordable than porcelain and are great for day to day use. However, they can be more prone and susceptible to chipping or damage.
GLASS
Glass dishes add a touch of sophistication worldliness and smoothness to any table setting. They are non-porous, waterproof, sealed, and resistant to odors and stains. However, they can be heavy and fragile, requiring much care to handle.
MELAMINE
Melamine dishes are durable, long-lasting, and lightweight, they are ideal for outdoor dining, picnic, and casual gatherings. They are resistant to damage, breaking, and chipping, but they are not satisfactory and suitable for microwave use.
STONEWARE
Stoneware dishes are solid, well-made, sturdy, and have a rustic, earthy appearance. They are perfect for daily, casual dining and can withstand regular use. However, they can be heavy and may crack or damage if exposed to sudden temperature changes or unexpected heat.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT-ONE
When selecting dining dishes, consider and contemplate the following elements:
- Occasions: For everyday use choose durable materials like ceramic or melamine. For special occasion choose glass and porcelain.
- Designs: dishes come in different designs; from simple, basic, and minimalist to intricate, complex, and decorative. Choose designs that complement your dining room décor, look, furbish, and personal style.
- Size: Make sure that the plates you choose fit well on your dining table and are appropriate, suitable, proper, and relevant for the types of meals you typically serve.
- Care and Maintenance: Consider, study, and review how easy the plates are to clean and whether they are dishwasher and microwave-safe. Some materials need and require more careful handling and attention than others.
CARING FOR YOUR DISHES
Use these maintenance suggestions to help your dinner plates last longer:
(i) To prevent damage, chipping, and cracking wash porcelain and glass dishes by hand.
(ii) If subjected to abrupt temperature changes, stoneware and ceramic plates may crack. Allow them to gradually warm up or cool down.
(iii) To avoid scratching the surface of your plates, clean them using mild detergents.
(iv) To avoid scratches, sandwich a paper towel or soft cloth between each plates before storing them and stacking them.
CONCLUTION
Use these care instructions to prolong the life of your dinner dishes. Dining plates are an essential component of your eating experience, not just useful objects. You can improve your meals and wow your visitors by selecting the appropriate plates for your needs and caring for them properly. There is an ideal set of plates for every occasion, whether you choose the beauty of porcelain, the adaptability of ceramic, or the robustness of melamine.