Best Overall
Party Dimensions Plastic Utensils
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When it comes to providing convenience for the whole family, plastic utensils never disappoint. From the basic types to the silver-coated types, there are a ton of options you can pick to get the best bang for your buck. Are you tired of shelling out dollars for piles of metal wares that don’t work or even worse – end up losing their shine and turning black? We’ve got you covered – we’re bringing you the premium plastic utensils for 2024 starting off with our top pick the Party Dimensions Plastic Utensils. Not sure where to get started? Don't worry, our buying guide breaks down everything you need to keep in mind before buying plastic utensils. Keep reading to shop confidently!
Buying Guide: Plastic Utensils
Why Do You Need Plastic Utensils?
Cost
It is crystal clear that plastic utensils are one of the most affordable utensils you can find in any store. Unlike actual cutlery, they cost next to nothing. If you’re buying on a budget or you’ve got no extra cash to spare, this is for you. A set of silver utensils could be three times or four times more expensive than plastic utensils, and that’s a bad deal for businesses with limited income. With plastic, you can save costs while getting the best value for your money.
Convenience
With plastic cutlery, businesses can allow customers to throw off their utensils soon after eating. This works better than washing piles of spoons, knives, and forks made of metal. It also eases the burden on consumers looking to host several guests. No clean-up, no stress–kick the utensils right to the curb.
How to Keep Your Plastic Utensils Clean
Despite Dustin Hoffman’s inward cringing in the movie ‘The Graduate,’ plastic was, in fact, the future. Regardless of how you feel, you can’t get away from the ever-present piece. You also can hardly fly the coop when it comes to debates about cleaning. Ask a couple of users how to clean plastic ware, and you’ll be amazed by how conflicting they sound. What makes plastic so difficult to clean or dry? Our eyes trick us. Yes, plastic may appear smooth, but according to Carolyn Forte, it is not. Place it under a microscope, and you’ll see its true colors – plastic is actually rough. In addition to items sticking to plastic utensils, they retain water much more than is necessary. Unlike glasswares, they hardly dry up when cleaned in a dishwasher. Below are a few tips to help you keep your plastic spotless: If you’re washing by hand: Then you’ll need warm water, an ideal liquid for grease-cutting dishwashing, and a wand (a dish brush may work too, though wands prevent excessive scrubbing). Hand washing works much better for reaching tight spots. If you’re cleaning threads attached to lids or straws built-in on bottles, then you should try this. Get a tiny brush (preferably made with nylon) and scrub out the deposits. If you’re using a dishwasher: Place your plastic utensils, particularly food containers, on the top rack of your dishwasher–this is to prevent the device’s heating elements from melting up your wares. Then proceed to wash and clean up safely.
What to Consider When Buying Plastic Utensils?
Durability
Durability is a top factor to consider when buying plastic utensils, and this is because your investment is expected to satisfy your pressing need. Overall, you should pick a utensil set that withstands heat (to a reasonable extent, though) and will stand up to everyday use. A piece that breaks or cracks up after just a few uses should not be considered at all.
Design and comfort
Another consideration when choosing plastic utensils is design and comfort. Check out the product and consider how convenient it is in your hands. The handles should fit well, and they should not move right out of their place while in use. If you’re a food lover or you enjoy spending hours preparing dishes, chances are high you’ll use these wares daily. So, be sure to pick the best. An ideal way to test and check for comfort is to hold up the utensils and consider how they feel in your hands. You should also check for the level of comfort you enjoy.
Color and finish
The color of your plastic utensils may not be a factor that pops into mind quickly. However, you can choose a color that suits the theme of the occasion or your business’ customary color. Also, you should consider utensils with a silver finish because they look like typical metallic silverware.
Quantity
Pro-tip: Buy your plasticware in bulk, so you don’t have to buy it repeatedly. If you’re hitting the market for plastic wares, you should avoid buying in bits. Though it costs more, buying in sets helps you save more over time. When considering the quantity contained in a utensil set, you shouldn’t limit your consideration to the total number only. You should also consider the ratio of spoons to forks and knives and compare it to your needs. If you need more spoons, that means you should select a set that contains more spoons than forks and knives. If you need all three in the same proportion, you should select as needed.
Top Picks
- Best Overall: Party Dimensions Plastic Utensils
- Best Heavy-Duty Option: Tepco Settings Plastic Utensils
- Best Disposable Pick: Party Bargains Plastic Utensils
- Best Bulk-Value Pack: Prestee Plastic Utensils
- Most Classic: Amazon Basics Plastic Utensils
Reviews
Best Heavy-Duty Option
Tepco Settings Plastic Utensils
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Best Disposable Pick
Party Bargains Plastic Utensils
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Best Bulk-Value Pack
Prestee Plastic Utensils
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Most Classic
Amazon Basics Plastic Utensils
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FAQs
Are plastic utensils safe?
Yes, they are. However, when plastic utensils are placed close to extreme heat sources, they tend to melt. This melting could result in chemical extracts being ingested while eating.
Can I use my plastic utensils more than once?
Absolutely. With proper care, plastic wares and utensils may be used as many times as possible. You must ensure they are cleaned up and washed in warm water regularly.
Do plastic wares expire?
Not exactly. But in most cases, aging wares may be just as bad as the expired ones. If you're buying plastic utensils, you must be sure to get a warranty. Refrain from buying pieces that last just a few days and do a proper check.
What kind of materials are used for plastic utensils?
Typically, plastic utensils are made from two kinds of plastics - polystyrene and polypropylene.