Shopping for my first set of dishes felt very “grown up.” I remember how overwhelmed I got standing in Macy’s trying to pick a fine china pattern ahead of our wedding. Now, looking back, I wish I had made a more practical choice. Those dishes felt too precious, which meant I needed to find some dishes I could use without worry for everyday meals that also looked good enough to entertain with.

There are several points to consider when buying a set of dishes since no matter how fancy you decide to go, the bill will typically still be hefty. Use these steps to help you narrow it down:

1. Think about your dining routine.

Everyone has different cooking habits and styles. If you’re someone who rarely turns on the stove, you can opt for a less-expensive set of dishes that you won’t be heartbroken over if a couple of them break. But if you cook regularly, delicate bone china that has to be hand washed is probably not the best option compared to more durable stoneware. Choose dishes that suit your lifestyle and the types of dishes you make most often.

2. Evaluate different pricing options.

Shopping for dishes is usually done by the individual piece or as a complete place setting. While a complete place setting may be tempting, it can also mean ending up with items you won’t use very often. The pieces you’ll need depend entirely on how you typically cook and eat. There are no rules saying you have to have smaller dessert plates or keep pasta bowls and cereal bowls in the cupboard. Shopping per piece can help you expand your collection as needed, but if you’re just starting out or looking to overhaul your entire selection, a set may be more economical. No matter which option you choose, it’s important to remember one thing: Dishes break and you have to be prepared to eat the cost of losing some.

3. Keep it neutral.

When it comes to everyday dishes, a neutral shade is the easiest to deal with. And I don’t just mean white. You can opt for a pale blush or go dark as well with slate or even black. A solid color is easy to match with table linens and other decor and can be used for multiple occasions. Save the patterns for special meals if you have room for more than one set.

4. Check out your storage options.

Map out where and how you will store your new dishes before making a purchase. You want to make sure you have adequate room for everything to prevent damage. Adding risers or vertical holders can help in smaller spaces. But some dishes need a protective layer between them when stacking to avoid scratches and chips.

5. Don’t forget about cleanup.

No one likes a pile of dirty dishes, especially if they’re a pain to clean. Make sure to check the care instructions for your dishes, including if they can be put into the dishwasher and microwave. If you’re going to use them regularly, they shouldn’t create a ton of extra work for you.

Want more tips? Learn how to shop for shapewear here.

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