All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
A good set of stainless-steel flatware is one of first things you buy for your kitchen, and most people rarely, if ever, replace it. But lets say youre about to move into your first real kitchen, or youve finally had it with the desperation forks you bought at Ikea 20 years ago. How much are you going to spend on your flatware? The prices of a standard four-person flatware set with five-piece place settings (dinner fork, salad fork, soup spoon, dinner knife, teaspoon) start at $8 (the price of Ikeas ubiqutious Förnuft set) and climb to a couple hundred. So how much should you spend to ensure youre getting a long-lasting set that can be served to your family and dinner guests alike? You need some shopping criteria and a few good examples to help you decide.
Using premium materials such as stainless steel or sterling silver adds to the price. The craftsmanship and attention to detail required in creating fine flatware also contribute to its expense.
Crate & Barrel Clark Mirror Set
This 20-piece set is made from 18/10 forged stainless steel, so it passes our quality test. It has a mirror finish that gives it enough shine to work for formal parties, but a minimalist design that fits in at casual dinners. Its dishwasher-safe and has a 25-year warranty. The $160 price tag boils down to $40 per setting.
Clark Mirror 20-Piece Flatware Set
Oneida Sheraton Fine Flatware Set
Oneida has been making flatware since 1880 and has a solid reputation as a high-quality, classic utensil brand. Their Sheraton set perfectly embodies this, with its etched, teardrop-shaped handles and weighty feel. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Sheraton 5-Piece Fine Flatware Set
Cutlery Expert Breaks Down Cheap and Expensive Silverware
FAQ
Why is silverware so expensive?
How can you tell if flatware is good quality?
Is there a difference between flatware and silverware?
How long should flatware last?
Who makes the best flatware?
We go deep into the world of flatware, sourcing the best in silverware and stainless steel sets, from brands including Oneida, Cutipol, Sabre, Sambonet, Fortessa, Crate & Barrel, Alessi, Mepra, Zwilling, John Pawson, and more.
How much should you spend on flatware?
How much are you going to spend on your flatware? The prices of a standard four-person flatware set with five-piece place settings (dinner fork, salad fork, soup spoon, dinner knife, teaspoon) start at $8 (the price of Ikea’s ubiqutious Förnuft set) and climb to a couple hundred.
How much does a set of 18/10 stainless steel flatware cost?
On average, one 5-piece set of 18/10 stainless steel flatware should cost around $15 to $20 but there are huge variables, so don’t get stuck on the number. Instead, consider the brand’s heritage, the look and feel of the flatware, its care instructions and what occasions you intend to use it for.
How do you know if a set of flatware is good?
When determining a set of flatware’s quality, you’ll want to look at the chromium and nickel percentages, the latter of which adds luster and provides resistance to corrosion. Stainless steel flatware sets are labeled with one of three ratios indicating the amount of chromium and nickel: 18/10, 18/8, or 18/0.