You’re planning an exciting dinner party or having the in-laws over for a meal, only to realize that your normal set of eating utensils just won’t do. When it’s time to pull out all the stops, a set of special occasion silverware can make your table setting shine. A set of spoons should be included in this set, but if you’re not familiar with the various types you may not be certain which spoons should be included and which can be left in the drawer.
What types of spoons are there?
Your table setting should always include a teaspoon. While you may be thinking of the measuring spoon and wondering how it earned a place at the table, you’ll easily recognize the teaspoon as the everyday utensil used for soup, cereal, coffee, desserts and so much more. Of course, you can still find a specially designed soup spoon, as well. Other alternatives include a bouillon spoon, which is used for eating thin soup broths, and the demitasse spoon, which features a longer handle that makes it perfect for stirring coffee. Last but not least, the tablespoon is a bit larger than your teaspoon and may be used to serve food or eat from a bowl. Of course, there are dozens more specialty spoon designs available, such as a grapefruit spoon, dessert spoon and more.
What do the numbers 18/10 or 18/0 mean?
While you’re shopping for a stunning set of spoons and other silverware pieces, you may encounter the numbers “18/0” and “18/10.” If you’re curious about what these mean, you’re not alone. These numbers simply refer to the amount of chromium and nickel in the stainless steel. Chromium, more commonly known as chrome, is durable and stain resistant, while nickel is corrosion-resistant and shiny.
• 18/10: If your flatware features these numbers, they’re made of 18 percent chromium and 10 percent nickel. These tend to have a brilliant, shiny luster, are rust resistant, durable and easy to maintain.
• 18/0: If your silverware is marked with these numbers, it has 18 percent chromium and 0 percent nickel. These have a softer shine than their nickel-infused counterparts and are economical but also prone to staining.
How do I care for my spoons?
When it comes to taking care of your silverware, there are certain rules you can follow to keep them from showing their age too soon.
• Don’t leave your spoons and other utensils sitting in water. This can permanently damage the metal and cause rust spots to form.
• If you’re cleaning sterling silver and stainless steel flatware at the same time, place them in separate baskets inside your dishwasher. Sterling silver requires minimal detergent and should be removed before the dry cycle begins, then promptly dried.
• Make sure you polish any sterling silver pieces at least once or twice a year to remove tarnish and prevent corrosion.
• Your stainless steel flatware is fairly hassle free and can be cleaned and dried in the dishwasher after each use.
