Eating is one of life’s great joys. Fish fingers need cutting, pasta needs spearing with a fork, and indulgent tubs of ice cream need a spoon, so whatever the meal or treat, you'll need a decent cutlery set for your home.
The best cutlery for you and your family might be practical budget knives and forks suitable for a teenager heading to university or a flatware set with anti-slip textured handles. It could be dinner party-worthy premium 18/10 stainless steel or dishwasher-safe mini cutlery perfect for picnics, children and lunch boxes.
Like the best saucepans and chopping boards, silverware is an everyday kitchen essential, but it can also add a glamorous gloss to a special occasion table or bring a touch of luxury to a delicious pudding at the end of a long day. The best cutlery sets have the correct number of place settings for your family, plus a couple more for guests or as spares.
To help you choose the right set for your family, we’ve extensively researched the views ofour trusty, discerning Mumsnet users, along with the opinions of food industry experts and verified consumer reviewers. Through this thorough analysis, we have found the best cutlery sets for durability, design and weight.We also thought carefully about each set of silverware’s ergonomics, how easy it is to maintain a shine and the variety of cutlery pieces it includes.
Plus, for more high-quality kitchen utensils, don’t miss our guides to the best can opener and most accurate kitchen scales, as suggested by Mumsnet users.
Best cutlery set 2024: at a glance
Best overall: Arthur Price Monsoon Sahara 32-Piece Set, £62
Best budget: IKEA Dragon Stainless Steel 60-Piece Set, £39
Best stainless steel: Alessi Nouvo Milano 24-Piece 18/10 Set, £134
Best everyday: Judge Windsor 58-Piece Stainless Steel Set, £80
Best 18/10 set: Villeroy and Boch Vivo 24-Piece Stainless Steel Set, £70
Best heavy set: Habitat Hammered Steel 16-Piece Set, £30
Best for entertaining: Stellar Rochester 32-Piece Set, £110
Best modern set: Viners Flair 24-Piece Stainless Steel Set, £30
Best for luxury: Robert Welch Malvern Bright 84-Piece Set, £340
Best for children: TeamFar Kids 9-Piece Cutlery Set, £10
1. Best overall cutlery set: Arthur Price Monsoon Sahara 32-Piece Stainless Steel Cutlery Set
Advertisem*nt
Price on writing: £62 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Number of place settings: Eight | Material: 18/10 stainless steel | Finish: Bright | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Includes: 8 x table knives, 8 x table forks, 8 x dessert spoons and 8 x teaspoons | Guarantee: 50-year manufacturers’ guarantee
What we like
Great value
Long guarantee
Curvy design
What we don’t like
You may need an extra set if you have guests or as spares
What Mumsnet users say
“Our ‘best’ cutlery is the Monsoon Arthur Price range to match our Monsoon crockery. It’s gorgeous.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user Sleepyteach)
Our verdict
We love the curvy shape of the Arthur Price Monsoon Sahara 32-piece cutlery set. It is beautifully crafted from superior quality 18/10 stainless steel and should last a lifetime.
This robust cutlery is dishwasher safe, but where possible, stick to hand-washing to keep the brilliant shine without polishing. The 50-year guarantee should give peace of mind, too.
Reviewers were impressed with the balanced weight of each piece; despite the rounded outline of the handles, they feel nice in the palm and provide a good grip. The price for this quality silverware set is also affordable, considering it’s large enough for the average family plus spares.
Buy now from Selfridges
Buy now from House of Fraser
2. Best budget cutlery set: IKEA Dragon Stainless Steel 60-Piece Cutlery Set
Price on writing: £39 | Buy now from IKEA
Key specs
Number of place settings: 12 | Material: Stainless steel | Finish: Satin | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Includes: 12 x teaspoons; 12x spoons; 12x forks; 12x salad forks; 12x knives | Guarantee: IKEA guarantee against faults
What we like
Excellent value
Long-term product, so you can buy replacements
Great longevity
What we don’t like
Some consumer reviewers felt the teaspoons were too small
What Mumsnet users say
“IKEA Dragon is a very solid, pleasingly plain cutlery set. Nice to use and lasts forever.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user HerNameIsIncontinentiaButtocks)
Our verdict
The IKEA Dragon Cutlery Set is an excellent quality set at an affordable price. There is enough cutlery here for 12 people, and it includes a bonus set of salad forks perfect for popping in your packed lunch box or taking on picnics.
Plain but not dull, we love the look of this set; the table knife is especially pleasing. They also have a streamlined, monobloc design, so there are no gaps or ridges that might collect food debris. It also means they are easy to wash, but you can pop them in the dishwasher if needed.
Dragon cutlery has been a much-loved part of the IKEA range for years, and other types of flatware will complement your set. In addition, if you’re forever losing teaspoons like us, you can pick up a spare next time you’re in the store.
Related: Discover the best frying pans and woks for cooking up a storm
Buy now from IKEA
3. Best stainless steel cutlery set: Alessi Nouvo Milano 24-Piece 18/10 Stainless Steel Cutlery Set
Price on writing: £134 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Number of place settings: Six | Material: 18/10 stainless steel | Finish: Bright | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Includes: Knifes x 6; Forks x 6; Spoons x 6; Coffee spoons x 6 | Guarantee: Yes
What we like
Excellent quality
Elegant design
Dishwasher safe
What we don’t like
Expensive
Coffee spoons are included in the set and they are smaller than teaspoons
What Mumsnet users say
“We have Alessi Nouvo Milano for everyday.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user SnoopsCaliforniaRoll)
“I got those about 12 years ago when Tesco did the collect stamps for certain items, still my fave set!” (Loved by Mumsnet user Lilipops)
Our verdict
The Alessi Nuovo Milano 24-piece cutlery set has a classic, elegant shape that will suit all table design styles. Made from 18/10 stainless steel, this set is durable, resists rust and will maintain its bright lustre throughout its life.
Alessi is a premium silverware brand, so the cost may seem steep at nearly £140 for six place settings. However, we think it is worth the investment as the price per use is minuscule for an everyday cutlery set that will look stunning for decades.
This set includes coffee spoons rather than teaspoons, and it’s worth noting that they are smaller. This might be useful for a coffee lover or parent of small children. Smaller spoons are also great for getting into the corner of bowls and yoghurt pots, and, of course, they look sophisticated with after-dinner coffee. That said, you may prefer a set with standard teaspoons instead.
4. Best everyday cutlery set: Judge Windsor 58-Piece Stainless Steel Cutlery Set
Price on writing: £80 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Number of place settings: Eight | Material: Stainless steel | Finish: Bright | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Includes: 8 x table knives; 8 x table forks; 8 x dessert knives; 8 x dessert forks; 8 x dessert spoons; 8 x soup spoons; 8 x teaspoons; 2 x serving spoons | Guarantee: 25-year manufacturers’ guarantee
What we like
A large range of cutlery is included
Great value
Dishwasher safe - excellent for everyday use
What we don’t like
Very simple design
What Mumsnet users say
“I love my Judge cutlery. It’s lasted years and it’s reasonably priced.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user CurlsandCurves)
Our verdict
The Judge Windsor Stainless Steel 58-Piece Cutlery Set has everything you need for eight place settings and much more. We’re thrilled it includes serving spoons, dessert forks and soup spoons alongside the usual suspects. It’s a brilliant price, too.
This is a great cutlery set for everything from everyday meals to a Christmas banquet. It is all dishwasher safe, feels balanced in hand and has a 25-year guarantee.
The Windsor set is ideal if you’re looking for a classic cutlery design. It won’t make a bold statement or ooze sophistication, but sometimes all you need is simple and unobtrusive.
Related: The best knife sharpeners, as recommended by Mumsnet users
Buy now from Wayfair
Buy now from Harts of Stur
5. Best 18/10 cutlery set: Villeroy and Boch Vivo 24-Piece Stainless Steel Cutlery Set
Price on writing: £70 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Number of place settings: Six | Material: 18/10 stainless steel | Finish: Bright | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Includes: Spoons x 6; knives x 6; forks x 6; coffee spoons x 6 | Guarantee: Yes
What we like
Long-lasting
Streamlined design
They feel nicely heavy
What we don’t like
The set includes coffee spoons which are smaller than teaspoons
What Mumsnet users say
“We have the Villeroy and Boch Vivo set. It's not expensive so we bought three sets and never run out even when the dishwasher is full. It has a nice hand feel, and comes with dessert forks which we use more than I thought.” (Brand suggested by Mumsnet user Frenchfancy)
Our verdict
The Villeroy and Boch Vivo 24-Piece Cutlery Set is made from premium 18/10 stainless steel, so they will last for years and maintain their elegant looks throughout. We love the small coffee spoons; they are great for enjoying an espresso with friends or for kids to use.
Vivo Silverware is dishwasher-proof, though it will need a quick polish to return them to peak shine. They are also beautifully balanced, making them a joy to use daily and on special occasions.
This is a small set for six place settings, but the quality and affordable price means it’s an excellent choice for a new home or wedding gift. The design is a lovely combination of classic and modern; they will match most kitchens and dining rooms.
6. Best heavy cutlery set: Habitat Hammered Steel 16-Piece Stainless Steel Cutlery Set
Price on writing: £30 | Buy now from Argos
Key specs
Number of place settings: Four | Material: 18/10 stainless steel | Finish: Satin | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Includes: Spoons x 4; Knives x 4; Forks x 4; Teaspoons x 4 | Guarantee: One-year manufacturers’ guarantee
What we like
Stylish design
Nice weight
The textured handle is non-slip - great for young children
What we don’t like
Only suitable for small families
Shorter warranty than some sets
What Mumsnet users say
“I got the Habitat Hammered Steel set from Argos, lovely and heavy, really good. Impressed so far.” (Tried and tested by Mumsnet user Lillipops)
Our verdict
Habitat Hammered Steel is one of the best affordable cutlery sets available in the UK. There’s enough flatware for four people; however, you can buy a couple of sets at this price.
We love the textured handles; they add a fun touch and are perfect for children as they provide extra grip. This set is ideal if you prefer cutlery that feels weighty and solid, yet is still balanced.
Despite the low price, this is a good quality cutlery set, and it should last for years. For extra peace of mind, Habitat provides a year-long warranty, but this is far shorter than some more expensive brands offer.
Related: The best baking trays according to Mumsnet users
Buy now from Argos
Buy now from Dunelm
7. Best cutlery set for entertaining: Stellar Rochester 32-Piece Stainless Steel Cutlery Set
Price on writing: £110 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Number of place settings: Eight | Material: 18/10 stainless steel | Finish: Bright | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Includes: Knives x 8; forks x 8; spoons x 8; teaspoons x 8 | Guarantee: Lifetime manufacturers’ guarantee
What we like
Nice presentation box
Modern design
Lifetime guarantee
What we don’t like
Expensive
What Mumsnet users say
“My Stellar cutlery is still going strong after 20 odd years.” (Tried and tested by GiveMyHeadPeaceffs)
Our verdict
Combining geometric shapes, smooth curves and a high gloss shine, the Stellar Rochester 32-Piece Cutlery Set is worthy of a coveted place on your dining table. Its sophisticated design will look stunning for special occasions and dinner parties, too.
Reviewers were thrilled with the balanced weight of this cutlery set. It feels lovely to hold and will add a touch of class to every mealtime.
There’s no avoiding that this is an expensive bit of kit, but if you want something that extra bit special and can afford to splash out, it definitely deserves a place in your kitchen drawer next to your best spatulas. Each high-quality piece is crafted from 18/10 stainless steel, so your new cutlery will last decades. As proof, Stellar provides a lifetime guarantee.
8. Best modern cutlery set: Viners Flair 24-Piece Stainless Steel Cutlery Set
Price on writing: £30 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Number of place settings: Six | Material: Stainless steel | Finish: Stainless Steel | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Includes: Knives x 6; forks x 6 ; spoons x 6; teaspoons x 6 |Guarantee: 25-year manufacturers’ guarantee
What we like
Stylish, modern design
Long-lasting
25-year guarantee
Good value
What we don’t like
Some reviewers found the knife too long for their cutlery drawer
What Mumsnet users say
“I have had that Viners one for 20 years. Nice set, still looks good.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Hairymuffet)
Our verdict
The Viners Flair 24-Piece Stainless Steel Cutlery Set is affordable and is a great option for students heading to university or as a spare set for guests.
Flair stainless steel cutlery has a simple yet modern design. However, some reviewers found the generously sized knife too long for their cutlery drawer, something to bear in mind if storage space is at a premium.
Presented in an attractive box, this set of high-quality silverware would make a practical new home gift along with a stylish salt and pepper grinder set It will last for years and comes with a reassuring 25-year guarantee, which is pretty impressive at this price point.
9. Best luxury cutlery set: Robert Welch Malvern Bright 84-Piece Stainless Steel Cutlery Set
Price on writing: £340 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Number of place settings: 12 | Material: 18/10 stainless steel | Finish: Bright | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Includes: 12 x Table knife, 12 x table fork, 12 x soup spoon, 12 x side knife, 12 x side fork, 12 x dessert spoon and 12 x teaspoon | Guarantee: Lifetime manufacturers’ guarantee
What we like
A streamlined yet curvy design
Impressive quality
Lovely to hold and use
Large set (84 pieces)
What we don’t like
Very expensive
What Mumsnet users say
“Robert Welch, nothing beats it.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Alwayscheerful)
Our verdict
If money is no object, then may we suggest luxury brand Robert Welch? Their Malvern Bright 84-Piece Set is a beautiful collection of premium cutlery. If you hold regular formal dinner parties, this is the perfect option as it includes enough flatware for 12 whole place settings.
Most pieces are crafted from tarnish-proof premium 18/10 stainless steel. However, the knives are made from extra-hard 420 grade so that they can cut smoothly through meat and root veg. This is heavy yet balanced cutlery; it feels expensive and is a delight to use, as it should do at this price!
We love the curves and shine of Malvern cutlery; the teardrop-shaped spoons are charming. Reviewers were also delighted with the long-lasting gloss and inclusion of a polishing cloth for post-dishwasher maintenance.
10. Best cutlery set for children: TeamFar Kids 9-Piece Cutlery Set
Price on writing: £10 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Number of place settings: Three | Material: Stainless steel | Finish: Satin | Dishwasher safe?: Yes | Includes: Spoons x 3; knives x 3; forks x 3 | Guarantee: None
What we like
The textured handle gives lots of grip
Great value
Makes a perfect gift
What we don’t like
Easy to get them mixed up with adult cutlery - you may end up hunting for the small forks!
Our verdict
The TeamFar Kids’ Cutlery Set is outstanding value, and growing children will be thrilled to have their own set of ‘grown-up’ knives and forks. The textured handles provide lots of grip, so this cute flatware is brilliant as a progression from plastic cutlery.
Made from tough stainless steel, this set will last for generations of children. They are dishwasher safe but may need the occasional polish. If you’re looking for a unique, practical gift for a child, we think this cutlery is an excellent idea.
Alternatively, these are ideal if you are you looking for cutlery that will fit in a lunch box or a picnic basket. Our only suggestion would be to keep this mini flatware separate from your full-size cutlery as they will blend in, and you’ll be hunting around for the right fork in the drawer at lunchtime.
Related: Best cast iron skillets to add to your kitchen
What are the different types of stainless steel?
18/10 stainless steel is the best quality you can buy. If you’re looking for premium flatware that will resist rust, maintain its shine and last for decades, this is the type of stainless steel you should be investing in.
The higher the numbers in the ‘grade’ of stainless steel a cutlery set is made of, the more superior the quality.
18/0 stainless steel is hard-wearing and will look good for years, and cutlery made from 13/10 stainless steel is much cheaper and often has plastic handles.
How to choose the best cutlery set for you
Style: An attractive cutlery set will finish a dining table beautifully or cheer up everyday meals. The style you choose depends on your tastes. Curvy, geometric, colourful and traditional are all options. Think about the finish too; do you love the look of a mirror-polished shine or prefer a sophisticated satin finish?
Number of place settings: If it’s an everyday set for your immediate family, buy a set with a place setting for each person, plus an extra two for spare and unexpected visitors. If you give flamboyant dinner parties every month or want a set that will stretch to Christmas dinners, buy a much bigger one.
What's included in the set:Most cutlery sets include a basic place setting of a knife, fork, dessert spoon and teaspoon.However, silverware sets with many pieces will also include soup spoons, coffee spoons and side forks. If you entertain regularly, or enjoy formal dining, and your budget can stretch, this is the best choice for you.
How we chose our recommendations
Recommendations from real Mumsnet users
Mumsnet users love cooking for their families and friends and have many opinions on the best ways to present a delicious meal. So, the first stop on our journey to find the best cutlery sets was the Mumsnet user forums.
We sought out their trusted opinions, asked for feedback and sought out their recommendations. It was vital for us to know what they rated and used in their own homes. We also took note of the products they felt could have been better value, were poorly made and were ineffective.
Expert opinions
Next, we scrutinised the reviews and feedback from trusted kitchenware and food industry experts. We want to be sure that the products we recommend are fit for purpose, so we focused on award-winning cutlery sets and those well thought of by home economists, interior designers and food writers.
Authentic consumer reviews
Finally, in our definitive list of the best cutlery sets available in the UK, we investigated comprehensive customer reviews on retailer websites such as Amazon, John Lewis and Partners and Harts of Stur. We wanted to take into account a wide range of consumer experiences.
About the author
Gemma Lumley is a Content Writer for Mumsnet; she writes consumer, home and lifestyle articles and specialises in product round-ups and reviews.
With many years of experience as a content and copywriter for her family business Urban Media Publishing, Gemma has written articles and blogs on travel, the outdoor industry, parenting and finance.
Gemma is a mum of two grown-up children and has two dogs and a tortoise. Alongside her writing, she spent many years as a home and travel expert and breastfeeding counsellor at a leading nursery retailer.
Why you should trust us
We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.
Read next: Best egg poacher for perfecting brunch every time
