The Ultimate Dinnerware Showdown: Melamine vs Plastic Plates
Many people don’t realize this, but man-made plastics have actually been on the market since the late 1800s. Perfecting them took time, though. They didn’t become mainstream until several decades later. When they did, they definitely brought about a revolution in consumer goods. By the 1950s, manufacturers were using synthetic plastics in a variety of items, including kitchenware.
Based on historical accounts, versions of melamine have also been available for much longer than most people think. In fact, chemists started experimenting with this material around the same time that fully synthetic plastics came into play. In the beginning, producing melamine was too expensive to be practical. As is the case with plastics, though, the material and its manufacturing processes were eventually honed enough to bring melamine dinnerware to the masses.
Comparing Plastic and Melamine
Though there are several types of dinnerware on the market at this point, plastic and melamine are a couple of the top contenders. Each material has its own qualities and characteristics. Let’s take a closer look at both of them to help you decide which one might be best for your family.
Dishwasher Proof
We’ll start with the matter of being safe to put in the dishwasher. It’s no secret that plastic has a tendency to warp when it’s exposed to high heat and pressure. While some of the higher quality versions can withstand heat to an extent, cheaper plastic dishes have been known to actually melt when exposed to high temperatures. Melamine dishes don’t warp or melt in the dishwasher. That makes them easy to clean and take care of.
Safety
Whether plastic and melamine dishes are safe is also a major concern. That’s where much of the debate over microwaving them comes into play. Plenty of “food-safe” plastic dinnerware is available at this point, but even that can leach hazardous chemicals into foods and drinks, especially when it’s exposed to prolonged heat.
Studies have shown that greasy and acidic foods can break down plastics as well, which makes them more likely to release BPA, phthalates, and other harmful compounds. Old plastic dishes and those that have scratches or heat damage have been found to release even more toxic chemicals into foods than new ones. With that being the case, experts warn against using old or damaged plasticware.
Melamine contains certain compounds that could be considered unsafe at high levels in their raw forms. During manufacturing, though, melamine dishes are processed and molded using high levels of heat. That heat neutralizes the dangerous compounds well before melamine products reach store shelves, so they’re completely safe for everyday use.
From a scientific perspective, melamine has a simpler, stabler chemical composition than plastic. It’s not as vulnerable to degradation, and it doesn’t have adverse reactions to outside forces. Of course, the quality of your melamine dishes makes all the difference.
Durability
Now, let’s look at the durability of plastic and melamine dishes. Neither is breakable, so you don’t have to worry about dropping them or dropping other items on them. That makes both of them wonderful choices for barbecues, outdoor kitchens, camping, and picnics. They’re great for families with children and pets as well because you don’t have to worry about anyone getting cut on broken shards or chipped edges.
As mentioned, though, most plastic dishes are vulnerable to heat damage. Since they warp or melt fairly easily and become more dangerous when they sustain wear or damage, they need to be replaced more frequently. They tend to become stained and unsightly as well. Though some plastic dinnerware is designed to be reusable, it doesn’t necessarily last very long.
Melamine is made for long-term use. It’s not vulnerable to heat damage. Since it doesn’t react with certain foods the way plastic does, it doesn’t stain as easily. Its protective finish doesn’t wear off with repeated use, either. It’s a truly reusable option that can last for years if you take care of it.
Aesthetic Appeal
Another important consideration is the aesthetic appeal of your dinnerware. Both plastic and melamine come in numerous colors and designs. That gives you an array of options to choose from, and you’re likely to find sets that work well with your kitchen and dining room decor. This is where plastic and melamine diverge, though.
Plastic dinnerware has a way of looking and feeling cheap. Some sets are better than others, but most just seem to have a chintzy essence. That’s especially the case once they start looking worn, faded, and stained. Though it’s good for daily use, you probably wouldn’t want to serve guests on plastic dishes.
Melamine looks and feels much like ceramic. Many people can’t tell the difference between the two. It’s not flimsy; it has a thick, sturdy, high-quality feel to it. Its resistance to wear and tear keeps it looking like new. With all that being the case, melamine dinnerware is as suitable for dinner parties as it is for everyday use.
Cost
There’s little denying that plastic is usually less expensive than melamine. Many people choose plastic dishes for that very reason. It’s important to consider the cost from a long-term perspective, though.
Although plastic dishes cost less upfront, they’re not as durable, and they don’t last as long. That means you’ll probably need to replace them more often. Keep in mind that you get what you pay for. Melamine dishes cost more initially, but they also last much longer. On top of that, you won’t need to invest in a separate set of dishes for special occasions if you choose melamine.
Environmental Impact
There’s also the environmental impact of plastic and melamine dishes to take into account. Plastics are notorious for their negative effects on the planet. More than 70 percent of discarded plastics end up in landfills rather than recycling centers, and that includes reusable dishes. They’re not biodegradable, but they do break down over time. That process leaves behind harmful toxins and microplastics that contaminate the air, soil, and water.
Melamine isn’t biodegradable, either. Still, there are a few key differences here. For one, since melamine dishes last longer, people rarely throw them away. That means far fewer of them end up in landfills. Secondly, the few pieces that do make their way out of people’s homes don’t give off the same toxins as plastics, so they don’t have as much of an impact on the environment.
Additional Considerations
Finally, let’s explore a few other factors to think about when you’re choosing dinnerware for your family. Plastic and melamine are both lightweight materials. That makes them easy to handle even for little hands. They won’t weigh on your shelves, either.
Both are stackable and nestable too. That save space and makes for convenient storage. Since melamine dishes are sturdier and more durable, though, you don’t have to worry about them getting deformed while they’re in storage.
Are Plastic or Melamine Dishes Better?
With all that being said, which of these options is better? If you’re looking for an inexpensive set of dishes for everyday use, plastic will fill the bill. Plastic dishes work well as a temporary solution until you can find a more permanent set of dinnerware. They’re an acceptable alternative to styrofoam or other single-use options.
On the other hand, if you want a set of dishes that’s durable, versatile, safe, and long lasting, melamine is the best choice. It’s fantastic for both daily use and special occasions. It’s dishwasher safe, it’s lightweight, and it comes in numerous beautiful colors and patterns. Though melamine dinnerware is more expensive, it’s safer for your family and the environment, and it may actually save you money over time.
