Dining outdoors calls for the right dinner plates. Outdoor dinner plates should be durable, lightweight, easy to clean, and safe for dishwashers. In this comprehensive guide, we explore everything you need to know to select the best outdoor dinner plates that meet your needs and style.
Table of Contents
Why Choose Dishwasher-Safe Outdoor Dinner Plates?
Dishwasher-safe dinner plates add convenience to functionality for outdoor dining. From barbecues to picnics and garden parties, they save your time and effort by not requiring any hand washing. Moreover, dishwasher-safe materials are mostly resistant to wear and tear and will provide a longer life for your dinnerware.
Best Materials for Dinner Plates for Outdoor Use
1. Melamine Dinner Plates
It’s one of the most famous materials for dinner plates outdoor usage because it’s light and unbreakable. Melamine looks just like ceramic but is far stronger; thus, it is just perfect for outdoor purposes.
- Pros: Scratch-resistant, shatterproof, available in a wide range of colors and designs.
- Cons: Cannot be used in a microwave.
2. Bamboo Dinner Plates
Eco-friendly and fashionably appealing, bamboo plates are ideal for the conscious consumer. They are biodegradable and usually combined with melamine for added strength.
- Pros: Sustainable, light, and aesthetically pleasing.
- Cons: Do not hold up well to extreme heat in a dishwasher.
3. Stainless Steel Dinner Plates
For ultimate durability in dinnerware, stainless steel dinner plates are among the best options. They are rust-proof, easy to clean, and virtually indestructible.
- Pros: Durable, heat-tolerant, and dishwasher-friendly.
- Cons: Few design options available as compared to melamine and bamboo.
4. Hard Plastic Dinner Plates
Hard plastic made from polypropylene or acrylic plates are affordable and multi-purpose. They are solid enough to be used outside but light enough to walk around with.
- Pros: Affordable, bright-colored options, dishwasher safe.
- Cons: It scratches after a while.
Key Features to Look for in Outdoor Dinner Plates
1. Durability
Outdoor dinner plates must be resistant to accidental falls and harsh handling. To ensure this, use melamine or stainless steel to keep the dinner plates lasting longer.
2. Lightweight
Lightweight plates are easy to carry, especially in the case of picnics and camping. This aspect becomes vital when it is time to serve many people.
3. Dishwasher Safety
Make sure that the plates are dishwasher-safe, or else they might warp or fade after some time. The good quality of melamine and stainless steel will survive several washes.
4. Aesthetic Appeal
Outdoor dining is all about presentation, not just functionality. Opt for serving dishes with lively patterns and hues that elevate the dining experience.
5. Stackability
Stackable plates take up less storage space and are easier to carry. Designs featuring nesting will add more handiness to the service.
Best Brands For Dishwasher Safe Outdoor Dinner Plates
1. Corelle
Corelle is known for their strong, lightweight dinnerware. They have a wide range of dishwasher-safe plates for outdoor use. Their unique glass-laminate technology helps in scratch resistance and makes the dishes last longer.
2. Zak Designs
Zak Designs is a specialist in melamine dinnerware with attractive designs. Their plates are light, dishwasher-safe, and perfect for outdoor use.
3. YETI
YETI embodies rough outdoor gear, and that is no different with these stainless steel plates. Durably built, this serves perfectly for camping and outdoor parties.
4. Bamboozle
Bamboozle sells environmentally friendly bamboo plates. With a great sense of style, they are functional at the same time. Their dishwasher-safe options merge sustainability with practicality.
How to Take Care of Your Dinner Plates Outdoors
- Avoid Harsh Cleaners: For protecting the finish and color, use mild detergents.
- Check Dishwasher Settings: Use low-heat settings for materials like bamboo and melamine.
- Store Properly: Stack plates neatly to avoid scratches or cracks during storage.
Best Uses for Outdoor Dinner Plates
1. Backyard Barbecues
Durable and easy-to-clean plates make serving and cleaning up a breeze.
2. Camping Trips
Lightweight, stackable plates are essential for campers. Look for unbreakable materials like stainless steel.
3. Picnics
Stylish yet practical plates create an added picnic experience. Opt for those with appealing, lively designs to compliment your setup.
4. For Poolside Dining
Slip-resistant and non-shattering plates will set up perfectly for wet, slippery poolside areas.
Best Ways to Choose the Finest Outdoor Dinner Plates
- Get the Theme: Find plates with designs that match your outdoors dinner theme.
- Safety First: Ensure all the plates are BPA-free and food-safe.
- Invest in Quality: While budget-friendly options are tempting, investing in high-quality dinnerware ensures durability and long-term savings.
Conclusion
Choosing the right outdoor dinner plates can elevate your outdoor dining experience. Whether you prefer the eco-friendly charm of bamboo or the durability of melamine, the options are endless. Always prioritize dishwasher-safe plates to make cleanup effortless and ensure long-lasting use.