How to Compare Stainless Steel Flatware

Stainless steel flatware is an investment that can last a lifetime. Choosing a pattern and brand can be intimidating but doesn't have to be. There's only a few things you need to know to compare stainless steel flatware so you can make an informed choice.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Compare retailers. Deal with a retailer you know and trust. Department stores have a greater selection of high quality patterns and styles. Discount stores usually offer the best prices, but lower quality.

2. Compare quality. Is the stainless flatware 18/10 stainless steel? Stainless labeled "18/10" is the highest quality available. The first number refers to the percentage of chromium in the stainless and is what makes stainless rust resistant. The second number refers to the percentage of nickel in the stainless. Nickel is what gives stainless steel its hardness and durability. If the pattern you've selected is labeled "18/8" or "18/0" stainless, the flatware will be softer and more likely to bend with everyday use. Stainless labeled "18/0" has no nickel in it; expect an "18/0" spoon to bend when dishing up well-frozen ice cream.

3. Compare patterns. Choose your pattern carefully. Some of the most popular patterns are guaranteed by the manufacturer to never go out of production, making the addition or replacement of pieces relatively simple. Finding a bargain on these types of patterns is rare, but not unheard of. If price is a major consideration, you can find discounted prices on discontinued patterns from reputable manufacturers at department stores. Discount retailers offer stainless flatware from many manufacturers, although some may be of lower quality.

4. Compare place settings. Most sets of stainless come with five pieces for each place setting: dinner fork, salad fork, tablespoon, teaspoon and rounded butter knife. Other sets come with only three pieces for each place setting by leaving out the salad fork and tablespoon. These sets tend to be less expensive and lower in quality.

5. Compare performance of individual patterns. Hold each individual piece as though you are eating with it. Does it fit well in your hand? Does the piece feel balanced? Can you eat with this utensil without struggling? Will other family members be able to use them? Can you see yourself eating with this fork for the next twenty or thirty years?

Tips & Warnings

• Plan for the future when buying stainless flatware. If you plan to purchase more place settings of your china pattern, purchase enough flatware to allow for this expansion in case the manufacturer discontinues your pattern. Higher quality stainless flatware sets often include free serving pieces.