We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Shopping Food and Kitchen Reviews Dishware Reviews The 17 Best Flatware Sets of 2024 We cut through protein and slurped soup to find the best flatware sets. By Michelle Love Michelle Love Michelle has spent the past 9 years working as a journalist. She has worked for publications that span from news organizations to magazines. She most recently worked for Shelby County Newspapers as a staff writer and currently does freelance for a variety of publications. Learn about BHG's Editorial Process and Nafeesah Allen Updated on January 17, 2024 In This Article Expand Jump to a Section Our top picks Reviews The Bottom Line Our Testing Process What to Know Before Shopping Others We Tested Your Questions, Answered Who We Are What Is BHG Recommends? Better Homes & Gardens / Tina DiRosa When hosting a dinner party or family gathering, a flatware set is not only essential to the meal, but it’s an important part of the tablescape design as well. Flatware can complement your style or aesthetic, and as someone who has worked in the catering and fine dining industry for 13 years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the importance of a quality flatware set. Purchasing a first flatware set can be intimidating for those who don’t know where to start, so we’ve compiled a list of the best flatware sets and tested a few of our favorites while eating chicken breast, soup, and a farro grain salad. We also determined how easy or difficult it was to clean the sets. Additionally, we spoke with Caron Woolsey, the founder and principal designer for CW Interiors, LLC, to help provide insights about what to look for in the best flatware sets. “My suggestion is to select something neutral in terms of style—not too modern, not too frilly—so that it does not have to be replaced as frequently as your style evolves,” Woolsey says. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Oneida Voss 45-Piece Flatware Set at Amazon ($110) Jump to Review Best Budget: Radley & Stowe Silverware Set at Amazon ($24) Jump to Review Best Splurge: Made In Flatware 4 Place Settings Set at Amazon ($199) Jump to Review Best Large Set: Lenox Portola 65-Piece Flatware Set at Amazon ($121) Jump to Review Best Minimalist: Oneida Mooncrest Flatware Set at Amazon ($95) Jump to Review Best Stainless Steel: Zwilling 45-Piece Set at Zwilling.com (See Price) Jump to Review Best Gold: CB2 20-Piece Rush Brushed Gold Flatware Set at CB2 ($100) Jump to Review Best Black: Gaze Stainless Steel Flatware Set at Pottery Barn ($129) Jump to Review Best Modern: Villeroy and Boch New Wave Flatware Set at Amazon ($249) Jump to Review Best Laguiole: Jean Dubost Laguiole Flatware at Amazon ($399) Jump to Review Best Overall Oneida Voss 45-Piece Flatware Set Amazon View On Amazon $110 View On Wayfair View On Jcpenney.com Our Ratings Design 4/5 Durability 5/5 Comfort in Hand 4/5 Performance 4/5 Cleanup 5/5 Why You Should Get It This 45-piece flatware set is a fantastic value for someone starting their flatware collection. Keep in Mind The edges of the fork tines seemed a little sharp. We chose the Oneida Voss 45-Piece Flatware Set as our choice for the best overall flatware set because it earned high marks throughout our testing process. This set covers all flatware needs as it contains five place settings including eight five-piece place settings and one five-piece serving set. During testing, we noticed that the weight was comfortable and balanced, and we liked the thumb depression in the handle as it gave a sturdy grip of the flatware during eating. The design was simple, yet effective and classic. For the chicken breast portion of the testing, we noted that the knife was not sharp to the touch, but the blade cut through the chicken effortlessly. The spoons also performed well during the soup portion of testing—they held an adequate amount and didn’t spill. While testing the forks, the tines were sharp and we were able to easily pick up chicken with them. However, we did notice that the edges of the forks seemed a little sharper than other forks we tested. To add to its appeal, the set was easy to clean since it is dishwasher safe, and it doesn’t need to be polished, which saves hosts time that they can spend elsewhere. Product Details: Material: 18/0 Stainless steel | Number of Pieces: 45 pieces | Care: Dishwasher safe Best Budget Radley & Stowe Silverware Set Amazon View On Amazon $24 View On Walmart $43 Why You Should Get It This simple set has smooth finished edges that are easy for kids and adults to hold. Keep in Mind If you frequently host dinner for more than four people, you’ll have to purchase an additional set. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Radley & Stove 20-Piece Silverware Set is the best flatware set for you. It includes four settings, and each set includes a dinner fork, salad fork, teaspoon, tablespoon, and dinner knife. With a classic, simple design, this set is perfect for everyday meals. The casual flatware set is made out of FDA-safe stainless steel and has a matte silver finish. For the price, the utensils are durable and are rust and bend resistant. You also don’t have to worry about polishing or hand washing this set—you can simply put them in the dishwasher to be cleaned. If matte silver doesn’t match your style, the set is also available in matte black for a more modern look. If your family is larger than four people or if you often have several dinner guests, you’ll need to purchase an additional set to accommodate all the place settings at your table. But because this flatware set is affordable, rust resistant, and dishwasher safe, it’s the best flatware set for those looking for a less expensive option. Product Details: Material: 18/10 stainless steel | Number of pieces: 20 | Care instructions: Dishwasher safe Best Splurge Made In Flatware 4 Place Settings Set Made In Flatware View On Amazon $199 View On Walmart $199 View On Madeincookware.com Our Ratings Design 5/5 Durability 5/5 Comfort in Hand 5/5 Performance 5/5 Cleanup 5/5 Why You Should Get It This flatware set has a versatile design that can fit any kitchen aesthetic. Keep in Mind This flatware set comes with four settings so it is not ideal for large parties. This Made In stainless steel set has a simple yet elegant design that will complement any tablescape. With this set, hosts aren’t just paying for a nice flatware set, they’re paying for an investment they’ll have for years to come. Made in Italy, the forks and spoons are constructed from 18/10 stainless steel while the knives are made from a single piece of 18/0 stainless steel. This combination of steels leads to a strong defense against aging and any other external damage. This setting is worth the splurge since it’s formed with a special finish that makes it more resistant to corrosion than other flatware settings. During testing, we noticed the knife was nicely balanced and sharp enough to cut the chicken breast, but not too sharp to the touch. The soup spoons were the biggest of the spoons we tested, which we noted made it easier to eat with. Like the knife, the spoon had a comfortable weight which made eating enjoyable, but it also had a thin handle with an elegant design. The forks performed efficiently and with ease all around—the rounded tines and balanced weight yielded a high-quality product. This flatware set is dishwasher safe and durable, and we found this is a versatile set that would fit any kitchen. The only downside is this setting only comes with four settings, so it’s more ideal for everyday eating as opposed to special occasion settings. Product Details: Material: 18/10 stainless steel for the forks and spoons; 18/0 stainless steel for the knives | Number of Pieces: 20 pieces | Care: Dishwasher safe Best Large Set Lenox Portola 65-Piece Flatware Set Amazon View On Amazon $121 View On Wayfair $163 View On Lenox.com Our Ratings Design 5/5 Durability 5/5 Comfort in Hand 4/5 Cleanup 5/5 Why You Should Get It This 65-piece flatware set includes a subtle, yet fun design on the end of each handle. Keep in Mind Some pieces are a little undersized. The Lenox 815486 Portola 65-Piece Flatware Set is the best flatware set for those looking for a stylish set that’s also a solid value. This set provides 65 pieces of flatware all adorned with an embellished design flair. The set is made from 18/10 stainless steel, and includes 65 pieces of quality flatware including everyday flatware and serving pieces such as a serving spoon, sugar spoon, butter knife, and serving fork. During testing, the knife was nicely balanced with the blade being long and thin enough to cut the chicken easily, but not so big that it was difficult to handle. While the soup spoon had an impressively wide width for a soup spoon, we did note that it was a little small for our preference. The forks performed well during the chicken and the salad portion with the tines efficiently piercing and scooping the food off the plate. We determined this set’s best feature was its subtle yet decorative embellishment, while its worst feature was that the spoons seemed a little undersized for our taste compared to the rest of the pieces. While the spoon held plenty of soup, its small size made it awkward to handle. This set is dishwasher safe, but it needs hand polishing afterwards. Product Details: Material: 18/10 Stainless steel | Number of Pieces: 65 | Care: Dishwasher safe Best Minimalist Oneida Mooncrest Flatware Set Amazon View On Amazon $95 View On Wayfair $94 Our Ratings Design 4.5/5 Durability 4/5 Comfort in Hand 4/5 Cleanup 4.5/5 Why You Should Get It This flatware set comes with service for eight as well as several serving pieces. Keep in Mind While this set is dishwasher safe, it will need to be polished after washing. The Oneida B336045A Mooncrest 45-Piece Flatware Set provides 45 pieces of chic and modern tableware. Not only does this set come with a full set of flatware, but it also includes several serving pieces as well including a butter knife, a slotted serving spoon, a serving fork, and citrus spoon. This setting is made of 18/0 and 18/10 stainless steel, and we noted during testing that all the pieces had thick handles that were pleasant to hold. The serrated knife worked well in the chicken testing because the weight was nicely balanced. We felt the same about the spoon, although we felt it was a tad bit too industrial looking for a soup spoon. We found the fork tines were slightly rough in that the edges were sharp, but this didn’t hinder the process of cutting or eating. We found it to be a little lighter in weight than other sets we tested, which made our culinary experience more enjoyable. We also appreciate that the set is backed by Oneida’s 25-year warranty, ensuring it will last for years to come. The set is dishwasher safe, and users should hand polish after washing. Product Details: Material: 18/10 and 18/0 Stainless steel | Number of Pieces: 45 pieces | Care: Dishwasher safe Best Stainless Steel Zwilling 45-Piece Set Zwilling View On Zwilling.com Why You Should Get It This high-quality stainless steel set provides a modern elegance. Keep in Mind It may look too formal for casual dining. Because of its high quality, the Zwilling Angelico, 45-Piece Set is the best stainless steel flatware set. Fashionable and functional, this corrosion-resistant set is made with the highest standards. A dinner fork, salad fork, soup spoon, teaspoon, and dinner knife are included in each setting, and there are eight settings available. The set also comes with five service items: a scalloped sugar spoon, a butter knife, a slotted spoon, and a serving fork and spoon. Each dining utensil features a flared handle with subtle rounded edges, and the neck of the utensils showcases two raised horizontal lines that provide an elegant, modern look. The flatware set was designed using a monoblock construction, and the stainless steel is balanced with an appropriate weight. Although the set is dishwasher safe and can be used for every meal, its sophisticated design may be better suited for special gatherings or dinner parties. Product Details: Material: 18/10 stainless steel | Number of pieces: 45 | Care instructions: Dishwasher safe Best Gold CB2 20-Piece Rush Brushed Gold Flatware Set CB2 View On CB2 $100 Why You Should Get It This 20-piece flatware set combines sturdiness with a sophisticated aesthetic. Keep in Mind This flatware set is not dishwasher safe. For those looking for a sleek and modern setting that is sure to grab their guests’ attention, the CB2 20-Piece Rush Brushed Gold Flatware Set is the best flatware set. While Woolsey recommends not looking for something too modern, we love this set because it has contemporary qualities without being too trendy. This flatware set is made of stainless steel (18/0 stainless steel for forks and spoons; 13/0 for the knife) that is brushed to a warm gold finish on the handles and polished to a mirror-like finish on the heads. The set will look right at home in a modern dining room or on a cottagecore tablescape. Keep in mind that this set must be hand washed—the finish may discolor over time or if placed in the dishwasher. The brand also recommends hand drying the utensils to avoid film buildup. Product Details: Material: 18/0 Stainless steel for forks and spoons; 13/0 for the knives | Number of Pieces: 20 pieces | Care: Not dishwasher safe; hand washing and drying recommended Best Black Gaze Stainless Steel Flatware Set Pottery Barn View On Pottery Barn $129 Why You Should Get It The lead-free stainless steel set will look harmonious on a modern tablescape. Keep in Mind To keep them in good condition, avoid using steel wool or citric acid detergent when cleaning the utensils. If you have a minimalist or modern aesthetic, the Gaze Stainless Steel 20-Piece Flatware Set will seamlessly blend in with your style. The sleek, black flatware set includes settings for four, and each set includes two forks, two spoons, and a knife. This lead-free flatware set will stand out on top of a white tablecloth or offer an industrial look when set on top of a wooden tabletop. They can be used for dinner parties or casual lunches, and cleanup is simple since they are dishwasher safe. To keep them in the best shape, be sure to rinse any food or residue off the utensils before placing them in the dishwasher. You’ll also want to avoid using steel wool or detergents that contain citric acid so that the finish will remain unblemished. Although the black is our favorite pick, the set is available in a few other colors including champagne, dark copper, and stainless steel. But because the black set is perfectly suited for a modern style, it’s our top pick for the best black flatware set. Product Details: Material: Stainless steel | Number of pieces: 20 | Care instructions: Dishwasher safe Best Modern Villeroy and Boch New Wave Flatware Set Amazon View On Amazon $249 View On Wayfair $250 View On Villeroy-boch.com Why You Should Get It The ultramodern stainless steel set includes service for 12 dinner guests. Keep in Mind Most sets that include bonus servingware have five pieces, but this one only has four pieces. The best flatware set for a modern aesthetic is the Villeroy and Boch New Wave Flatware 64-Piece Set. The set features service for 12 and four extra pieces of servingware. Each utensil is made of stainless steel and has a slim, stylish design. When laid flat, the flatware has crisp straight lines; however, the three dimensional waves on the handle give the pieces a weighty, luxurious feel in-hand. Since the Villeroy & Boch brand is built to last, you can enjoy this rust-resistant set for many years to come. Although the set looks high-end and like it needs to be polished by hand, the utensils are all dishwasher safe. While the design of these pieces is simple, the small details add elegance and make this set feel simultaneously contemporary and timeless. To match the modern flatware set, you can also purchase trendy tableware to complement the utensils. Product Details: Material: Stainless steel | Number of pieces: 64 | Care instructions: Dishwasher safe Best Laguiole Jean Dubost Laguiole Flatware Sur La Table View On Amazon $399 View On Williams-Sonoma $100 View On Sur La Table $245 Why You Should Get It Made in France, each piece is polished and finished by hand. Keep in Mind While it’s dishwasher safe, it’s recommended to hand wash for longevity. The Jean Dubost Laguiole Flatware Set is the best flatware set for you if you want to feel like you are living a simple yet luxurious life in the French countryside. The 20-piece set is made of stainless steel and includes five place settings. Each utensil is hand polished and finished. You can purchase the set in either stainless steel or ivory to match your dining style. The ivory option has stainless steel ends, and the handle features molded resin with three rivets. Each knife bolster proudly displays the iconic bee, which signifies that it was made in the French region of Laguiole. The French-made set is dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended to help extend the life of the pieces. Although they can be used every day, their elegance may best be used for formal dinners or special occasions. Product Details: Material: Stainless steel, molded resin | Number of pieces: 20 | Care instructions: Dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended Best Mixed Metals Mikasa Cameo Gold Flatware Set Mikasa View On Wayfair $247 Why You Should Get It The 65-piece set features a 24 carat gold design on each utensil. Keep in Mind This set should be hand washed. If you often host a sizable crowd, the Mikasa Cameo Gold 65-Piece Flatware Set is the best large flatware set for you. The Mikasa brand has been known for its fashionable dinnerware since the company was founded in California in the 1940s, and the current style still harkens back to those roots, while still feeling modern. With this 65-piece set, you’ll receive enough utensils for service for 12 diners. Additionally, there are five serving utensils included in the set including a tablespoon, a pierced tablespoon, a serving fork, a sugar spoon, and a butter knife. The edge of each stainless steel utensil is adorned with a stunning 24-carat cameo gold pattern. The sophisticated handiwork makes this set perfect for a luncheon with friends or a dinner party. Each piece in the set is stain resistant, but the set in mint condition, avoid using the dishwasher and wash the utensils by hand instead. Product Details: Material: Stainless steel | Number of pieces: 65 | Care instructions: Hand wash Best Vintage Oneida Wordsworth Flatware Amazon View On Amazon $110 View On Wayfair $108 View On Oneida.com Why You Should Get It This flatware set has a romantic design, and it includes a few serving utensils. Keep in Mind If you prefer a more modern or masculine design, another option may be better. For vintage lovers, the Oneida Wordsworth Flatware will add a bit of floral romance to your table setting. It includes eight five-piece place settings, and as bonus you’ll also receive a serving spoon, a pierced serving spoon, a sugar spoon, a butter knife, and a serving fork. Each utensil features delicate beading, roses, and various other flowers. The stainless steel set features a mirror finish which looks elegant and formal enough to use for special occasions. But, because it’s dishwasher safe, it can also be used on a regular basis to help elevate a simple meal. In addition to being dishwasher safe, the utensils are also stain resistant so you can use them to eat pastas or curries without fretting. Since the durable and high-quality product also comes with a lifetime warranty, you can enjoy your flatware without worry. If your kitchen or dining area has a more sleek and modern aesthetic, you may not enjoy this pick—but for those who love vintage charm, this is the best flatware set for you. Product Details: Material: Stainless steel | Number of pieces: 45 | Care Instructions: Dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended Best Matte Sharecook Matte Silverware Set Amazon View On Amazon $31 View On Walmart $37 Why You Should Get It This flatware set is available in several colors, so there are options for different styles. Keep in Mind It may not be quite as long lasting as more high-end sets on our list. A matte finish offers a more subtle look for your tablescape, and the Sharecook Matte 20-Piece Silverware Set is the best matte flatware set for an understated style. The set includes service for four, and is available in several different matte colors including copper, gold, silver, black, champagne, and blue. Because of the various colors available, there is an option for every aesthetic. The design of the set is simple and classic, and each utensil features a flared handle. Cleaning is a breeze since they are dishwasher safe, so you can use them every day. Though they are durable enough to be used everyday, they are also tasteful enough to use for more special occasions. They are also affordably priced, so you can get a few sets if you like to switch up your aesthetic or want certain finishes for different seasons. Product Details: Material: Stainless steel | Number of pieces: 20 | Care Instructions: Dishwasher safe Best Formal Juliska Berry & Thread Place Setting Perigold View On Perigold.com Why You Should Get It Priced as individual sets, it can be a great option for those who are wanting an exact number of sets for their home. Keep in Mind This set is regal and elegant, but the price may be too high for modest budgets. For formal tableware that is unforgettable, the Juliska brand Berry & Thread set is a cut above the rest. Although the company is based in Charleston, South Carolina, the sets are made in the old-world French tradition. With its classic motif, this high-end set is perfect for special occasions, and the classic design makes it a timeless piece to be coveted for generations. The formal flatware set is made out of stainless steel with a silver mirrored finish. Even though they look exquisite, you don’t have to spend time polishing them—they can easily be washed in the dishwasher and are rust resistant. Unlike most options on our list, this flatware set is sold in a set for one table setting, and each set includes a dinner fork, salad fork, dinner knife, teaspoon, and dessert spoon. Because you can buy however many sets you want, it’s perfect for those who have an odd or specific number of settings. However, for the number of pieces in a set, the price is a bit steep and can add up quickly. Product Details: Material: 18/10 Stainless steel | Number of pieces: 5 | Care Instructions: Dishwasher-safe Best Colorful Berglander Rainbow Flatware Set Amazon View On Amazon $28 Why You Should Get It For a lighthearted experience, this set makes mealtime a burst of fun. Keep in Mind Servingware isn’t included. Whether you're hosting a wedding, birthday party, or other festive gatherings, the Berglander Rainbow 20-Piece Flatware Set is the best colorful flatware set. This festive set includes service for four, and the pieces are rust resistant and dishwasher safe. The utensils feature fabulous rainbow coloring and a sleek, modern design with straight lines and subtle curves. Paired with solid colors or a theme party motif, this flatware set is likely to be the talk of the party. This set is perfect for a themed get-together or for everyday use if you love a maximalist aesthetic. Product Details: Material: Stainless steel | Care instructions: Dishwasher safe |Number of pieces: 20 Best Textured Towle Living Texture Flatware Set Amazon View On Amazon $61 Why You Should Get It It provides visual interest and is easy to grip. Keep in Mind No serveware is included with this set. The Towle Living 20-Piece Texture Stainless Steel Flatware is stunning for entertaining, yet perfectly practical for everyday use. For those looking for practical, ergonomic design without sacrificing style, this set is ideal. These chunky cutlery pieces are an excellent choice for anyone who needs extra grip beyond what thin and modernist designs typically offer. In addition to providing an easy grip, the textured design also offers visual interest on your tablescape. The handles are flared on all of the utensils except for the knife, which has a slightly curved design. This flatware set includes service for four, and each setting includes a dinner fork, salad fork, dinner knife, dinner spoon, and teaspoon. The stainless steel utensils are dishwasher safe and are ideal for everyday use since they don’t require polishing. Because of their distinctive design, this set also makes a thoughtful gift for newlyweds or a host. Product Details: Material: Stainless steel | Number of pieces: 20 | Care Instructions: Dishwasher safe Best Wood Geiserailie Wooden Flatware Set Amazon View On Amazon $16 Why You Should Get It Wooden cutlery is heat resistant and will not scratch pots, plates, or other kitchenware. Keep in Mind It only includes three utensils per setting. For a casual alternative to stainless steel, the Geiserailie Wooden Flatware Set is the best wood flatware set. The eco-friendly set is made out of natural phoebe wood, so it is lightweight and easy to use. Because they are lightweight, they are also easy to tote on a camping trip or for a picnic in the park. Their natural, casual look is also perfect for backyard gatherings during the spring and summer. Since this set is more casual, it only includes three utensils per setting—a fork, a spoon, and a knife. The fork and spoon have a slightly flared handle, while the knife has an ergonomic, curved handle. The 12-piece set is simple to clean with warm water and soap. To prolong the life of your set, avoid washing your utensils in the dishwasher or soaking them in water. Product Details: Material: Wood | Number of pieces: 20 | Care Instructions: Hand wash The Bottom Line We chose the Oneida Voss 45-Piece Flatware set as the best overall flatware set. During testing, the set performed efficiently at both cutting a chicken breast and eating soup. It’s made of quality stainless steel, which means it will last for years, and it’s dishwasher safe. Our Testing Process To find the best flatware sets, we tested four of our favorite flatware sets from this list in our testing lab. We placed each flatware set through four levels of testing and considered factors such as material, care, weight, shape, and value. The four testing levels included how the flatware performed cutting through a 6- to-8 ounce cooked chicken breast, eating a bowl of soup, and eating a farro salad. The final level of testing determined how the flatware stood up in a dishwasher and how easy it was to clean. We recorded the various characteristics for each flatware set after each tasting, and determined the best flatware sets based on performance. What to Know About Flatware Sets Before Shopping Style When shopping for flatware sets, consider the style of your dining room or the specific aesthetic you’re hoping to achieve for a gathering or party. If you love a vintage look, opt for a flatware set that has ornate or floral details on the handles. However, for a more modern dining room, choose a set that has straight lines or a dark finish. Based on our testing, the ideal style is a well-balanced set with an understated design. Woolsey also recommends purchasing a neutral (not too ornate and not too simple) style of flatware so that you can continue to use it years down the line when your tastes have evolved. The Lenox 815486 Portola 65-Piece Flatware Set has a simple yet elegant design that your guests will notice and appreciate, but it won’t take away from any other elements of your tablescape. Its classic design that will never go out of style. For a more contemporary style, consider the CB2 20-Piece Rush Brushed Gold Flatware Set that has a sleek and modern design paired with a brushed black finish. Material There are several different types of flatware materials that all hold their own in some way whether it be style, durability, or if they stand out in special occasions. Steve Holmes, owner of Timeless Interiors in Mountain Brook, Alabama, says there are several different types of flatware that serve all purposes. “For your formal occasions, sterling silver is high-end,” Holmes says. “It needs regular polishing, but it holds its value. Now silver-plated is less expensive, but the silver can wear off after usage.” Stainless steel is the only trustworthy option when it comes to quality flatware. Stainless steel is not only durable, it’s easy to clean and is almost guaranteed to not tarnish. Most stainless steel flatware is dishwasher safe and doesn’t require polishing, leaving you with more time to deal with other hosting duties. As you’re shopping, you may find some flatware sets say 18/0, 18/8, or 18/10 stainless steel. These numbers refer to the ratio of chromium and nickel in stainless steel alloy. The 18 is the chromium percentage, and the zero, eight, or 10 is the nickel content. Of the three, 18/10 is the higher quality of stainless steel to choose from as it has a significantly lower chance of rusting or corroding over time. Holmes says to be wary of cheaper flatware that isn’t made from a quality material as it can lessen the overall value of the set. “Cheaper flatware often includes forks with rough, unfinished areas between the tines, indicating that the manufacturer skimped on polishing the entire piece,” Holmes says. Care A quality flatware set will last many years as long as it is taken care of and cleaned properly. When flatware is purchased, it typically comes with a set of cleaning and care instructions. Most flatware is dishwasher safe, however there are still several brands that require hand washing, such as the CB2 20-Piece Rush Brushed Gold Flatware Set. If a particular set requires hand washing, there’s a very good chance it also requires polishing. When purchasing, pay attention to the set’s individual care instructions, as it plays a huge role in the flatware set’s lifespan. Other Flatware We Tested Knork Original Collection Cutlery Utensils We found that the Knork Original Collection Cutlery Utensils did not meet our standards for an ideal flatware set. The handles of the utensils were rather thick, which made handling during eating and storing them rather difficult. The knife was also dull during the chicken testing, which made cutting more of a sawing experience. The spoon was not comfortable to handle during the soup portion, and the fork tines on both the dinner and salad fork were very dull. Overall, this flatware set scored poorly on all fronts, so we eliminated it from our list. Zwilling J.A. Henckels Opus Flatware, 45-Piece Set During testing, we found that the Zwilling J.A. Henckels Opus Flatware 45-Piece Set performed adequately throughout each process. The knife performed efficiently during the chicken cutting process as did the spoon in the soup testing. We did note that the forks were a tad wider than typical dinner or salad forks, but they also performed well. We noted however that the tines of the fork were a bit too dull to pierce the chicken, so scooping was a more effective method. While it was a decent flatware set, we felt it didn’t hold up against some of its competitors. Your Questions, Answered How many place settings should you have? With so many different varieties of flatware settings available, some people may wonder exactly how many settings is the appropriate number to have. Holmes says people should own one reliable set for everyday use and another for more elaborate place settings. “You should have eight settings of a five-piece place setting for everyday use—high quality stainless steel preferred,” he says. “You also need eight settings of the five piece place setting of either Sterling silver, silver plated, or gold plated.” However, if you don’t frequently host gatherings, just having one set will be sufficient for your needs. Before purchasing a flatware set, consider how many people are in your household and how often everyone will sit down at the dining table to eat together. For example, a flatware set with four to five place settings would be more than enough for a family of two who doesn’t host very often. How often should flatware be replaced? According to Woolsey, quality flatware won’t need to be replaced unless lost over time. “While people are more inclined to upgrade dishes and table linens over time, flatware is a staple that many choose to keep for as long as possible,” Woolsey says. “Now, if you want to replace it, well...that’s different. I recommend going with an 18/10 stainless steel for beauty, durability, and regular dishwasher use,” she says. How much does quality flatware cost? For this testing process, we tested flatware settings that ranged from $16 to $200, and we found that the higher quality flatware tends to cost $50 and over. “Quality flatware typically ranges between $40 to $50 per place setting,” Woolsey says. “More for certain design characteristics or brand names, less if purchased in bulk at big box stores or if you’re lucky enough to score them on sale.” Who We Are Michelle Love is a freelance commerce writer for Better Homes & Gardens. Through her years of experience writing freelance for countless publications in Birmingham, Alabama, and her 13 years of experience working in the restaurant and catering industry, Michelle works to provide the most thorough information possible when it comes to dining etiquette and culture. For this article she also spoke with Caron Woolsey, the founder and principal designer for CW Interiors, LLC, on what people should keep in mind when purchasing flatware. She also spoke with Steve Holmes, the owner of Timeless Interiors in Mountain Brook, Alabama, about how many place settings one should own. Dr. Nafeesah Allen also contributed to this article. She is a multilingual freelance writer who has been writing about homes and decor for Better Homes & Gardens since 2021. She researched well-reviewed cutlery, flatware, and silverware sets to determine the best flatware sets. What Is BHG Recommends? Next to all of the products on this list, you may have noticed our BHG Recommends seal of approval. Products that earn the seal have been put through rigorous testing to make sure they're worth a spot in your home. We buy most of the products we test ourselves, but occasionally we are provided samples by companies if buying isn't an option. In these cases, we use the same testing criteria we use to test the purchased products. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit