Pre-Owned Porcelain Dinnerware: A Fresh Start

Porcelain dinnerware is a great addition to any contemporary space. From porcelain plates for a casual dinner with friends to porcelain mugs for your morning coffee ritual, porcelain dinner sets are chip-resistant and microwave and dishwasher safe, making them ideal for everyday dining.

Whether you're looking for dishes to use every day or want something fancier to complete your perfect dinner party tablescape, a good dinnerware set is a must. Personal style can play a large role in making your decision, but the best dinnerware sets should also be durable enough to withstand frequent use and cleanings.

There are plenty of great places to buy dinnerware, and all of our favourite dinnerware sets are available for purchase online—some at multiple retailers.

Porcelain dinnerware for everyday use

Porcelain dinnerware is a great choice for everyday use, as it is durable, versatile, and often chip-resistant, microwave-safe, and dishwasher-safe. Here are some options for porcelain dinnerware sets that are perfect for daily use:

Royal Doulton Porcelain Dinnerware:

Royal Doulton offers a range of porcelain dinnerware, including plates, mugs, and bowls, that are ideal for casual dinners with friends or your morning coffee ritual. Their dinner sets are chip-resistant and safe for use in microwaves and dishwashers, making them perfect for everyday dining.

Target Porcelain Dinnerware Sets:

Target offers a variety of porcelain dinnerware sets to match your style and needs. You can find classic white ceramic plates, stylish stoneware, or elegant bone china to elevate your dining experience. Their dinnerware is also microwave-safe, dishwasher-safe, and chip-resistant, ensuring durability and convenience.

The Home Depot Porcelain Dinnerware Sets:

The Home Depot offers a wide range of porcelain dinnerware sets, such as the 222 Fifth Adelaide 16-piece set and the Lenox Butterfly Meadow 18-piece set. These sets typically include dinner plates, salad plates, bowls, and mugs, providing a complete dining experience.

Good Housekeeping Recommendations:

Good Housekeeping recommends several porcelain dinnerware sets suitable for everyday use. The Williams Sonoma Apilco Porcelain Dinnerware Set is a classic choice with wide rims for easy handling. It performed well in scratch and stain resistance tests and is microwave and dishwasher-safe. Another option is the Gibson Home Zen Buffet 30-Piece Dinnerware Set, which offers versatility and durability at an affordable price.

Serious Eats Recommendations:

Serious Eats has curated a list of dinnerware sets, including porcelain options suitable for everyday use. The Open Kitchen by Williams Sonoma 16-Piece Dinnerware Set is a crowd-pleaser, offering a simple yet elegant design. The Fable Base Dinnerware Set adds a modern touch with its earthy tones and matte finish. For a budget-friendly option, the AmazonBasics 16-Piece Porcelain Dinnerware Set provides service for four at a reasonable price.

Porcelain dinnerware for special occasions

Porcelain dinnerware is a great way to elevate your dining experience, whether it's a casual get-together or a special occasion. Here are some tips and recommendations for choosing the perfect porcelain dinnerware set for those memorable meals:

Choosing the Right Porcelain Dinnerware:

• Consider the Occasion: Porcelain dinnerware can range from casual, everyday sets to more elegant and sophisticated designs. Think about the type of occasions you'll be using the dinnerware for and choose a style that fits the mood and atmosphere you want to create.
• Material and Durability: Porcelain is known for its durability, but it's important to check the quality and thickness of the pieces. Look for chip-resistant and scratch-resistant options that can withstand everyday use and frequent washing.
• Design and Aesthetics: Choose a design that reflects your personal style and complements your dining table setting. Consider the shape of the plates and bowls—some sets have wide rims, while others have straight walls or gently sloped sides. Select a style that not only looks appealing but also provides a functional eating surface.
• Microwave and Dishwasher Safe: Ensure that the porcelain dinnerware is microwave and dishwasher safe. This will make your life easier when it comes to reheating food and cleaning up after meals.
• Number of Settings: Decide on the number of place settings you need. If you entertain frequently, consider getting a larger set or purchasing additional place settings separately.
• Brand and Price: There are various brands offering porcelain dinnerware at different price points. While more expensive sets may offer higher quality, it's not always necessary to spend a fortune. Decide on a budget that works for you and explore options within that range.

Recommended Porcelain Dinnerware Sets for Special Occasions:

• Royal Doulton Porcelain Dinnerware: Royal Doulton offers a range of porcelain plates, mugs, and bowls that are chip-resistant and safe for both the microwave and dishwasher. Their sets often include modern twists on classic styles, making them perfect for casual dinners or more formal gatherings.
• Williams Sonoma Dinnerware Sets: Williams Sonoma has a variety of porcelain dinnerware options, including the Open Kitchen 16-piece set, which is an excellent choice for everyday use and special occasions. The set features wide-rimmed plates and bowls, and the pieces are microwave and dishwasher safe.
• Lenox Blue Bay 12-Piece Dinnerware Set: This set stands out with its organic, wavy shape and gold rims. It adds a touch of elegance to your table and is both microwave and dishwasher safe.
• Le Creuset San Francisco Coupe 16-Piece Dinnerware Set: Le Creuset is known for its durable and stylish dinnerware. This set features three concentric rings on each piece, giving it a unique look. The pieces are lightweight yet substantial and are safe for the microwave, dishwasher, oven, and broiler.
• AmazonBasics 16-Piece Porcelain Dinnerware Set: If you're looking for an affordable option, the AmazonBasics set offers service for four at a reasonable price. The all-white dinnerware is simple and functional, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Villeroy & Boch Artesano 4-Piece Place Setting: This German-made set exudes elegance and sophistication. The creamy, off-white color and flat rims give it a classic yet modern feel. The set includes a small, tapered mug with a squared-off handle, making it a unique and charming addition to your table.

Porcelain dinnerware for outdoor use

Porcelain dinnerware is a great option for outdoor use. It is chip-resistant, microwave-safe, and dishwasher-safe, making it ideal for everyday dining and outdoor meals. Here are some tips and recommendations for choosing and using porcelain dinnerware for outdoor use:

Choosing the Right Porcelain Dinnerware for Outdoor Use:

• Consider the size of the dinnerware: Choose dinnerware that is easy to carry and store, especially if you plan to use it for picnics or outdoor gatherings. Look for sets that include plates, bowls, and mugs of various sizes to suit different occasions.
• Durability: Opt for porcelain dinnerware that is known for its durability. Look for brands that advertise chip-resistance and durability, such as Corelle or Royal Doulton. This is especially important if you plan to use the dinnerware outdoors, where it may be more prone to breakage.
• Style: Choose a style that suits your taste and the occasion. Porcelain dinnerware comes in various styles, from classic white sets to colourful and patterned options. You can also find porcelain dinnerware with modern or rustic designs.
• Microwave and dishwasher safety: Ensure that the porcelain dinnerware you choose is safe for use in the microwave and dishwasher. This is important for convenience and easy cleaning, especially after outdoor meals.

Using and Caring for Your Porcelain Dinnerware Outdoors:

• Handling: When carrying a stack of porcelain plates, retrieve them from the top of the stack rather than sliding them out from the middle. This will help prevent scratches or breakage.
• Temperature changes: Avoid subjecting your porcelain dinnerware to extreme temperature changes. Do not pour boiling water into cold dishes, as it may cause thermal shock and breakage. Similarly, do not place cold dishes from the refrigerator directly into the oven or microwave.
• Cleaning: Rinse mugs and teacups with water after drinking coffee or tea to prevent staining. For deeper cleaning, always use gentle, environmentally friendly detergents and soft sponges when washing your porcelain dinnerware. Avoid abrasive sponges or brushes, especially on glazed surfaces.
• Storage: To maximise space when storing your porcelain dinnerware, consider using shelf risers in your cupboards. This will help you stack your dinnerware compactly and safely.
• Replacement: If a piece of your porcelain dinnerware breaks, you can often find replacement pieces from the same brand or similar styles from other brands. Sites like Replacements, Ltd. specialise in selling discontinued dinnerware, so you can maintain your set even if the brand no longer carries it.

Recommended Porcelain Dinnerware Sets for Outdoor Use:

• Gibson Home Zen Buffet 30-Piece Dinnerware Set: This set includes mugs, dinner plates, dessert plates, bowls, and salad bowls. It is made of porcelain, resists scratches and stains, and is microwave and dishwasher safe.
• Corelle Vitrelle 18-Piece Dinnerware Set: This set is chip-resistant, microwave-safe, and dishwasher-safe, making it a great option for outdoor use. It comes in various patterns and is durable enough for both indoor and outdoor dining.
• Williams Sonoma Apilco Tradition Blue-Banded Porcelain Dinnerware Set: This set features classic white dishes with elegant blue bands. It is scratch and stain-resistant, microwave and dishwasher safe, and perfect for daily use or outdoor gatherings.
• Royal Doulton Porcelain Dinner Sets: Royal Doulton offers a range of porcelain dinnerware that is chip-resistant, microwave-safe, and dishwasher-safe. Their sets include plates, bowls, and mugs, making them ideal for outdoor dining and everyday use.

Porcelain dinnerware for display

Porcelain dinnerware is a great way to add a touch of elegance to your dining table. Whether you're looking for a casual dinner with friends or a more formal gathering, here are some tips and suggestions for choosing and displaying porcelain dinnerware:

Choosing Porcelain Dinnerware:

• Consider the occasion: Determine whether you need dinnerware for everyday use or special occasions. This will help you choose between more durable, casual sets or delicate, formal ones.
• Think about your style: Do you prefer a classic, all-white set or something more colourful and modern? You can opt for sets with fun patterns, gold rims, or even hand-thrown, asymmetrical designs.
• Check the pieces included: Look for sets that include a variety of plates (dinner, salad/dessert) and bowls (cereal, soup/pasta). Mugs are optional, especially if you already have a favourite set.
• Material matters: Porcelain is a popular choice for dinnerware due to its durability, weight, and affordability. It is often microwave, dishwasher, and oven-safe. Bone china is another option, known for its delicate and translucent appearance, but it tends to be more expensive.
• Durability: Look for dinnerware that is chip-resistant and scratch-resistant. Some sets may also be oven-safe and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
• Size and shape: Consider the size of your table and storage space when choosing dinnerware. Larger plates and bowls may not fit well in smaller dishwashers or cabinets. Also, think about the shape of the rims and walls – wide rims provide a good grip, while straight walls give a modern look and more usable plate space.
• Additional considerations: If you plan to expand your collection or replace broken pieces, look for sets that offer individual place settings or additional pieces for purchase. Also, check the care instructions to ensure the dinnerware is dishwasher and microwave-safe.

Displaying Porcelain Dinnerware:

• Everyday display: If you want to display your porcelain dinnerware, consider investing in a plate rack or hutch. This way, you can showcase your dinnerware while keeping it easily accessible.
• Open shelving: If you have open shelving in your kitchen, you can arrange your dinnerware to create a stylish display. Try stacking plates and bowls neatly or arranging them by colour or pattern to create a visually appealing setup.
• Wall display: For a more unique display, consider hanging your porcelain plates on a wall. Use plate hangers or plate racks to create an eye-catching feature wall in your dining room or kitchen.
• Mix and match: Don't be afraid to mix and match different pieces from various sets. Combining colours, patterns, or styles can add interest and personality to your table setting.
• Table setting: When setting the table, consider layering your porcelain plates. Start with a charger plate, then add a dinner plate, followed by a salad/dessert plate. This creates a sophisticated look and also gives you the option to remove plates between courses.
• Centrepiece: Create a stunning table centrepiece by stacking multiple plates or bowls of varying sizes and colours. Add some flowers, candles, or other decorative elements to complete the look.
• Creative displays: Get creative with your display by using unconventional items like plate stands, wall-mounted plate racks, or even plate frames. You can also incorporate other tableware items like cutlery and napkins to create a cohesive look.

Porcelain dinnerware for gifting

Porcelain dinnerware is a great gift option for housewarmings, weddings, and other special occasions. Here are some ideas for porcelain dinnerware sets that will impress and delight the recipient:

Royal Doulton Porcelain Dinnerware :

Royal Doulton offers a range of elegant and contemporary porcelain dinnerware sets. Their collection includes plates, bowls, and mugs in classic styles with a modern twist. The sets are chip-resistant and safe for use in microwaves and dishwashers, making them ideal for everyday dining.

Target Porcelain Dinnerware Sets:

Target has a wide variety of porcelain dinnerware sets to match any style and occasion. You can find timeless white ceramic plates, classy stoneware, or bone china to impress your guests. Their collection also includes microwave-safe and dishwasher-safe options with trusted brands like Corelle, Elama, and Fortessa.

The Home Depot Porcelain Dinnerware Sets:

The Home Depot offers a range of porcelain dinnerware sets with different designs and pieces. You can find sets with elegant blue and white patterns, such as the 222 Fifth Adelaide 16-piece set, or opt for something more unique like the Lenox Butterfly Meadow 18-piece set with a whimsical butterfly design. These sets are perfect for those who want to add a touch of style to their dining experience.

Gibson Home Zen Buffet 30-Piece Porcelain Dinnerware Set:

This set impressed testers with its quality and versatility. It includes mugs, dinner plates, dessert plates, standard bowls, and salad bowls, all made of simple white porcelain. The set is scratch-resistant, stain-resistant, microwave-safe, and dishwasher-safe. It's a durable and affordable option, perfect for those who want a large and versatile set without breaking the bank.

Williams Sonoma Apilco Porcelain Dinnerware Set:

This set combines classic white dishes with classy blue bands, making it perfect for daily use or formal dinners. The wide rims allow for easy handling without getting food on your hands. The set includes dinner plates, salad plates, soup bowls, cups, and saucers, and it performed exceptionally well in scratch and stain resistance tests. It's a great option for those who want a durable and stylish set.

Fable Base Dinnerware Set:

The Fable Base Dinnerware Set offers a minimalist and modern aesthetic with a touch of earthiness. The set is made of stoneware, a dense and durable type of ceramic. It includes dinner plates, salad plates, large pasta bowls, and small breakfast bowls. The set performed well in scratch and stain resistance tests and is microwave-safe and dishwasher-safe. It's a great choice for those who want a sleek and durable set.

These suggestions provide a range of options to suit different tastes and budgets. Porcelain dinnerware is a practical and thoughtful gift that will surely be appreciated by the recipient.

Frequently asked questions