Not all stainless steel flatware is created equally. Close inspection of flatware packaging for dinner knives, forks, and spoons will usually list a numerical identification that might initially puzzle you. The designations 18/10, 18/0, or 13/0 indicate the percentages of chromium and nickel included in the stainless steel alloy. These numbers also give you an accurate way to judge the quality of the flatware, as higher percentages of nickel are generally regarded as superior. Thus, 18/10 flatware is widely understood to be the best quality.
Keep reading to better understand stainless steel grades for flatware so you can best determine the quality of the flatware you are buying.
The Composition of Stainless Steel
The stainless steel used in flatware is an alloy— a composite of various types of steel along with additional metals that lend improved appearance and performance. In the case of the stainless steel used in flatware, chromium is added to the blend to create an alloy with good rust resistance, while nickel is added to provide a silver-like shine along with some additional rust resistance. Typically, the higher the percentage of each additional metal, the higher the quality of the stainless steel alloy.
18/10 Stainless Steel
This grade of stainless steel is comprised of 18 percent chromium and 10 percent nickel, with the remaining 72 percent comprised of steel. The alloy composition makes everyday stainless steel cutlery easy to care for, and for the most part, it has some amount of resistance when it comes to pitting or rusting. It is an extremely durable grade of steel and can last for decades when properly cared for.
18/8 Stainless Steel
Not very different than 18/10 or Grade 304 stainless steel, 18/8 typically has a chromium percentage of 18% and a nickel percentage of about 8%. It is resistant to most corrosion but more vulnerable to water and salt wear over time. This grade—which can last for 50 years—can also withstand more heat than lower-graded stainless steel.
18/0 Stainless Steel
Compared to 18/10 and 18/8, 18/0 cutlery uses Grade 400 stainless steel, which is 18% chromium and 0% nickel. This grade has less longevity and shiny stain resistance than its higher-grade counterparts. Although it is the most vulnerable to corrosion, it is dishwasher safe and a good quality for its less expensive price. Since it is less durable, 18/0 stainless steel will likely only last for a few years.
13/0 Stainless Steel
A 13/0 grade of stainless steel contains 13% chromium and 0% nickel. Similar to 18/0, this grade also has less stain resistance and longevity compared to 18/10 and 18/8. As the least expensive grade of stainless steel, 13/0 flatware is usually found in institutions where quantity is valued over quality (such as some restaurant chains and hospitals.) It is the most suitable for knives, yet bends easily., so expect this grade level to last for a few years.
Flatware Weights
Composition of the stainless steel is not the only criterion for judging the quality of flatware. Within each grade category, flatware is available in various weights:
- Forged: This flatware is the thickest and strongest, made from a single piece of metal with embossing forged into all sides, not just stamped on the surface. This flatware has maximum durability and is often the choice for high-end commercial restaurants. This flatware will be notably heavy in the hand.
- Extra heavy weight: This is a premium grade of flatware that is also often found in restaurants and hotels. Compared to lesser grades, it is quite hard to bend and feels very sturdy.
- Heavy weight: This flatware is also of fairly high quality and is a good choice for durable everyday home use. It is found in many mid-level restaurants.
- Medium weight: Also known as economy weight, this is a fairly lightweight class of flatware that is fairly easily flexed and bent. Institutional settings such as school cafeterias often use this weight. For the home, medium-weight flatware represents the bargain offerings at mass merchant retailers.
Thus, the very best cutlery is represented by forged 18/10 stainless steel, while the least expensive bargain flatware would be medium-weight 18/0 or 13/0 stainless steel.
Stainless Steel Flatware Costs
No matter what stainless steel composition is used, flatware costs can vary widely depending on the metal weight used. Some forged 18/0 flatware is more expensive than heavy-weight cutlery using 18/10 stainless steel.
Assuming metal weights and style are comparable, 18/0 cutlery will be at least half the cost of fine 18/10 cutlery. One prominent manufacturer, for example, recently offered a 20-piece (four place settings) set of 18/10 cutlery in a simple, unadorned style for about $140, while the same place setting in 18/0 stainless steel sold for $48. A similar cost range is found in other manufacturers offering the same styles in different grades.
Shopping Tips
- When shopping, take the time to open the flatware package and handle a utensil. An 18/10 spoon has a great "feel" in your hand—somewhat heavy but well-balanced—and the stainless is gleaming. It should look very elegant. Such quality flatware is worth paying the higher price.
- Give some thought to how many flatware servings to buy so you will have a set that meets your immediate and future needs. Quality flatware is sometimes available in sets and also individually with open stock availability. This should be confirmed if you intend to grow your set over time.
- Signs of low-quality stainless are rough edges, lack of luster, lightweight, and lacking balance when handled. These would also probably have no stainless specifications to confirm metal details. You can still use such flatware, and it might be ideal for starter cutlery; you can upgrade as your budget allows.
- Check the flatware packaging for other product information, especially international or national standards, to ensure this flatware product meets acceptable standards for your area.
Care Tips
It should be noted that even the best stainless steel flatware is subject to occasional pitting and corrosion if not properly cared for. Here are some tips for keeping your stainless steel flatware looking and performing its best:
- Dishwasher detergents tend to be harsh to stainless steel flatware and that can sometimes cause blemishes. These can often be removed with a stainless steel cleaner, but pitting, chipping, or rusting is sometimes permanent.
- Immediately after washing, polish your flatware with a microfiber cloth to remove water spots or smudges.
- Presoaking for about 20 minutes before washing will help cutlery washed in the dishwasher get completely clean.
