When choosing the best dinnerware material, there is usually a toss between Porcelain and Stoneware. Porcelain is the non-porous ceramic which hails its origin from China. It is made from refined kaolin clay fired at a higher temperature than Stoneware. It comes with an incredible period of durability. It is far more expensive than stoneware.
While stoneware is a less porous ceramic made from stoneware clay that has been fired at a temperature between 2150 and 2330 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if you have a fancy dinner or party organized at your home, the delicate porcelain dinnerware is something which is required the most. Rest, both are considered beautiful dinnerware pieces and can be used for different purposes. They feature different patterns, colors, shapes, uses, longevity, price, and characteristics.
To ensure an informed decision-making process, you need to understand what makes each dinnerware or cookware unique and what are the differences between both based on varied factors.
Stoneware versus Porcelain - How They Are Made And What They Look Like?
Porcelain
The Porcelain cookware is made using a white refined clay known as Kaolin Clay. This clay is fired at more than 2300 degrees Fahrenheit. Once fired, it is covered with a clear glaze that helps the white color show more prominently. Talking about its appearance, they are non-porous, translucent, delicate, and thinner to look at. It is usually found in white color.
Stoneware
The stoneware cookware is made using stoneware clay that has been fired at a temperature between 2150 and 2330 degrees Fahrenheit. Talking about its appearance, they are porous, opaque, thicker, and less delicate than porcelain. Unlike porcelain, it is available in a variety of colors and finishes such as shiny, satin or matte.
Purpose
Porcelain
Besides the daily use, the porcelain dinnerware is the best fit for parties, formal dinners, and special occasions.
Stoneware
While stoneware dinnerware is meant for casual restaurants for those who are looking for a farm-to-table feel.
Heating, Cooking and Cleaning
It is recommended that both porcelain and stoneware cookware should not be placed on the direct heating source. But, they are microwave safe. However, if porcelain has a metal rim, avoid placing it in the microwave. If placed from fridge to oven to the dishwasher, be careful and avoid sudden temperature change. However, both are dishwasher safe.
Baking
For a good baking experience, Porcelain dishes are a great option above the stoneware dishes. Since they are non-porous, therefore heat distributes evenly resulting in a perfect baked dish.
Longevity
Do you know porcelain has ground animal bone added to the clay to create an even more durable material? So, if you are looking for highly durable cookware and dinnerware where the issue of chipping doesn’t arise, then porcelain is something meant for you.
Scaling Your Choice
Upon closer inspection, it has been clear that both Porcelain as well as Stoneware has their individual distinctions, pros, and cons. If you are out in the market, choosing the type of dinnerware for your family, you need to consider a number of factors.
-
Cost- Consider the cost of both. If you have an expansive budget, you can go for Porcelain. While, if you have less budget at your disposal, you can choose Stoneware.
-
Purpose- Second thing to consider is how the dinnerware will be used. If it is meant for dinners and special occasions, consider Porcelain as it is delicately crafted. Else, for normal use, stoneware can be used.
-
Pattern- If you are a type of a person who loves dinnerware covered with a delicate glaze of white, then Porcelain is the best choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a shiny, satin or matte finished dinnerware in a variety of colors, you can opt Stoneware.
Conclusion
After learning and knowing the differences between both Porcelain and Stoneware, it would be wise on the part of the buyer to choose the one that works best for him. Before making a final purchase, consider how the dinnerware will be used. Each comes with its own novelty, appeal, pattern, and durability. Pick out the one that comes with the durability tag and can even be passed unto the future generations.
Rest, the final choice lies upon the available budget and the individual preference.
FAQ’s
In Terms Of Durability, Which Is Better Porcelain or Stoneware?
If you are looking for something more durable, classy, and doesn’t even want to confront the risk of chipping; then Porcelain is a better choice than Stoneware.
Is Stoneware Microwave Safe?
Yes, stoneware can be microwaved. However, it must be taken care that Stoneware does not touch the sides of the door of the microwave.
What Is The Difference Between The Manufacturing Of Porcelain And Stoneware?
Porcelain is made up of finer particle clay that is fired at a higher temperature than stoneware. This results in thinner construction and more translucent body. Whereas, Stoneware is made up of stoneware clay that is fired at a temperature between 2150 and 2330 degrees Fahrenheit which is less than that of Porcelain.
Which Is The Best Dinnerware For Daily Use?
Porcelain dinnerware is considered as the more preferred choice for daily use as well as for formal dinners.
