To choose between two types of culinary utensils is not an easy job, hence, this story gives you a detailed list of stainless steel flatware vs. silverware.
Whether you are a blushing bride or an anxious mother of the bride buying a flatware set, buying the perfect one can be a daunting task. If you can't decide on what you should get, the contemporary stainless steel or traditional silverware, you are not alone in the quest for the perfect choice. Yes, flatware is important, whether you are buying a set for daily use or for those special occasions. But how do you choose between the two kinds? There is no perfect answer for this option. Both the kinds are great, but you have to decide the perfect choice for you?
Guidelines to Choose
When you are comparing both the types of kitchenware, the comparison should be done based on some attributes. The table given below lists out various categories, like price, use, etc., based on which a comparison is made between the two types of flatware.
Criteria - Price Stainless steel - It is cheaper and affordable. Go for it if you want something cost-effective. Silverware - Since silver is a precious metal, and utensils made of it are considered as heirlooms, it is more expensive. If you can afford it, nothing like it.
Criteria - Use Stainless steel - Buy this for daily use, as you won't mind it being subjected to wear and tear. Silverware - It is better only for special and rare occasions.
Criteria - Maintenance Stainless steel - It doesn't scratch, stain, or bend, and is practically maintenance free. Silverware - It requires a lot of maintenance, regular polishing, and buffing so that it doesn't go dull. It is also prone to bending, as silver is a soft metal and has only 7.5% copper to make it stronger.
Criteria - Durability Stainless steel - It is very durable, almost indestructible, as it will never break, dent, or bend. Silverware - Silver being a softer and more pliable metal, is prone to breakage and bending, and consequently, is less durable.
Criteria - Designs Stainless steel - It can be more contemporary in style and design, so, choose according to your need. Silverware - It tends to be more traditional in design.
Criteria - Cleaning Stainless steel - It is quite easy to clean, and does not require special cleaning agents, warm water and detergent will work fine. Silverware - It cannot be cleaned with regular detergent, as it will dull and tarnish. It needs to be cleaned with appropriate cleaners.
Criteria - Appearance Stainless steel - It depends on maintenance. Since steel requires no maintenance, it will keep looking new. This is because of nickel in the alloy, which keeps it looking highly polished. Silverware - This will begin to look old, dull, and tarnished after a while, unless it is carefully polished and buffed.
Criteria - Food Stains Stainless steel - It is not prone to food stains. Silverware - It will stain from eggs and mustard, and will need to be polished regularly.
Ultimately, it would be prudent to buy what you love and like. Do not be pressurized into buying something that you won't use. The best option though is to get a set of both, stainless steel for daily use, and silverware for occasions such as dinners and parties.