While some of us may desire an aged antique, others may prefer more modern styles. “Try to nail down your own personal ‘pretty’ and select options that align with that,” says Lance Thomas, principal designer at Thomas Guy Interiors. He fondly refers to flatware as “the jewelry of the table.” There are many different styles and options available, so to make it easier for you to choose, we’ve researched the best flatware sets and considered important features like the number of pieces in the set, durability, design, price, and material. Our top pick for best flatware set overall is the Lenox Portola 65-Piece Flatware Set because of its durability, lifetime warranty, value, and versatility. The timeless style easily transitions from everyday meals into more formal settings, making it a great all-purpose set for any family. Keep in Mind: If you opt for the gold or black set, the serving utensils aren’t included. The stainless steel set features a timeless mirror finish, and is durable enough to be used everyday yet elegant enough to be used for special occasions. The design is mostly simple and classic, but the end of each piece shows off a beaded texture to add some personality. Cleaning up is also a breeze with this set since it’s dishwasher safe. The durable flatware is made to last and is rust, tarnish, and corrosion resistant. If you aren’t a fan of the stainless steel look, the set is also available in a 60-piece gold set or a 20-piece black set. However, with these color options the serving utensils aren’t included. Price at time of publish: $190 Product Details: Material: 18/10 stainless steel | Care instructions: Dishwasher safe | Number of pieces: 65 Keep in Mind: If you frequently host dinner for more than four people, you’ll have to purchase an additional set. 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. Price at time of publish: $24 Product Details: Material: 18/10 stainless steel | Care instructions: Dishwasher safe | Number of pieces: 20 Keep in Mind: While it’s dishwasher safe, it’s recommended to hand wash for longevity. 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. Price at time of publish: $324 Product Details: Material: Stainless steel, molded resin | Care instructions: Dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended | Number of pieces: 20 Keep in Mind: To keep them in good condition, avoid using steel wool or citric acid detergent when cleaning the utensils. 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 clean up 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. Price at time of publish: $129 Product Details: Material: Stainless steel | Care instructions: Dishwasher safe | Number of pieces: 20 Keep in Mind: The utensils have a shiny, mirror finish, so if you prefer a matte look this may not be the set for you. With a glossy, mirror finish, the utensils will add an exquisite sparkle to your dining table. The flatware set includes settings for four, and all of the pieces are dishwasher safe so you can spend more time eating and gathering and less time cleaning. The stainless steel set is also corrosion resistant and rust proof, so you don’t have to worry about this set losing its initial glow. To help store and organize your utensils, the set also comes with an organizer tray with a rubber base to keep it in place. However, if you already have a tray, it’s not possible to purchase flatware without it. Price at time of publish: $25 Product Details: Material: 18/8 stainless steel | Care instructions: Dishwasher safe | Number of pieces: 20 Keep in Mind: It may look too formal for casual dining. 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. Price at time of publish: $100 Product Details: Material: 18/10 stainless steel | Care instructions: Dishwasher safe | Number of pieces: 45 Keep in Mind: This set should be hand washed. With this 65-piece set, you’ll receive enough utensils for service for twelve 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. Price at time of publish: $645 Product Details: Material: Stainless steel | Care instructions: Hand wash | Number of pieces: 65 Keep in Mind: Most sets that include bonus servingware have five pieces, but this one only has four pieces. 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. Price at time of publish: $222 Product Details: Material: Stainless steel | Care instructions: Dishwasher safe | Number of pieces: 64 Keep in Mind: Servingware isn’t included. 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. Price at time of publish: $28 Product Details: Material: Stainless steel | Care instructions: Dishwasher safe |Number of pieces: 20 Keep in Mind: If you prefer a more modern or masculine design, another option may be better. 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. Price at time of publish: $100 Product Details: Material: Stainless steel | Care Instructions: Dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended | Number of pieces: 45 Keep in Mind: This set is regal and elegant, but the price may be too high for modest budgets. 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. Price at time of publish: $98 Product Details: Material: 18/10 Stainless steel | Care Instructions: Dishwasher-safe | Number of pieces: 5 Keep in Mind: It may not be quite as long lasting as more high-end sets on our list. 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. Price at time of publish: $50 Product Details: Material: Stainless steel | Care Instructions: Dishwasher safe | Number of pieces: 20 Keep in Mind: No serveware is included with this set. 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. Price at time of publish: $158 Product Details: Material: Stainless steel | Care Instructions: Dishwasher safe | Number of pieces: 20 Keep in Mind: It only includes three utensils per setting. 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. Price at time of publish: $16 Product Details: Material: Wood | Care Instructions: Hand wash | Number of pieces: 20
What to Know About Flatware Sets Before Shopping
Number of Pieces in the Set
When choosing a flatware set, it’s important to consider the number of pieces in a set. To determine the best number for you, think about what occasion you will be using your flatware for, how many people you will be serving, and how often you are able to wash your flatware. A busy family may find it ideal to opt for a larger 65-piece flatware set to ensure they have enough utensils for unexpected friends stopping in, or just so they don’t have to wash dishes every day. Conversely, someone who lives alone or only rarely hosts friends or family may opt for a smaller 20-piece set.
Intended Use
Understanding intention is an important part of choosing the right flatware set for you. Before you begin searching for your perfect flatware, ask yourself how you plan to use the set. If you are purchasing a set specifically for special occasions, splurge a little on a set that has intricate, elegant details. On the other hand, if your purchase is primarily for everyday use, focus on sets that are functional, simple, and easy to clean. If you are planning to use your flatware set for special occasions, you should also think about what those events will typically look like. If you are hosting backyard barbecues on the patio, a classic, casual set will be sufficient. However, if you intend to host upscale dinner parties, choose a set that reflects the formality of the occasion.
Materials
There are two main types of flatware: stainless steel and silver. Stainless steel is a popular choice because it is durable, easy to care for, and relatively affordable. On the other hand, silverware has a classic look and feel but is more costly and high-maintenance. For formal seated meals, sterling silver continues to be the gold standard, and many people have sentimental value to vintage, antique, or inherited pieces. For practicality and functionality, many modern families focus on stainless steel for daily use. Wood is a less-popular, but eco-friendly flatware choice. It is lightweight and easy to use, but it is not dishwasher safe like many stainless steel options.
Care Instructions
Each flatware set includes its own specific care instructions, so be sure to read the care manual that comes with your set. Some stainless steel sets recommend hand washing, while others are dishwasher safe. However, with different materials, like wood, hand washing is best, but it’s also important to the longevity of the set to avoid soaking the utensils for prolonged periods of time.
Your Questions, Answered
Does flatware have to be hand-washed?
In the past, hand-washing flatware was commonly necessary. Sterling silver, especially, required cleaning and regular polishing. However, many modern flatware sets use durable materials, like stainless steel, which can typically be washed in a dishwasher and do not require polishing. Pay careful attention to this detail when choosing the right flatware set for you. Look at the materials listed in the description and consult the care instructions before purchasing.
How many sets of flatware should you have?
How many sets of flatware you own depends on your lifestyle. If you will only use your flatware for everyday meals, one set will usually suffice. However, if you host dinners, parties, or other events, you may want to invest in multiple options.
What is the best size flatware set to have at home?
The size of your flatware set should be based on your family’s needs. If your home consists of you and your partner, a typical 20-piece set with service for four will work well for you. If you have four to six people in your home, you may want a 40- to 45-piece set, in case pieces are lost or you have extra dinner guests. For large families or families who host frequent large gatherings, consider purchasing a flatware set with around 64 or 65 pieces.
Who We Are
Dr. Nafeesah Allen is a multilingual freelance writer who has been writing about homes and decor for Better Homes & Gardens since 2021. To better understand the role flatware plays in our homes and eating habits, Nafeesah consulted Lance Thomas, principal designer at Thomas Guy Interiors. She researched well-reviewed cutlery, flatware, and silverware sets to determine the best flatware sets. Brandi Fuller is an Associate Commerce Editor for Better Homes & Gardens who writes about the best home products.
