Melamine is a type of plastic made from an organic-based and nitrogen-rich chemical compound. Its durable and heat-resistant qualities make it a great choice for long-lasting dishes that won't shatter if dropped.
You can find melamine dinnerware sets in a variety of colors and designs that fit with any decor. Whether you want a classic white set or desire to add some color, a rustic vibe or cool pattern to your table setting, you can achieve whatever look you're going for with a melamine dinnerware set.
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What To Consider When Purchasing A Melamine Dinnerware Set
Number of Pieces: Most melamine dinnerware sets serve four people with a total of 12 pieces, including dinner plates, bowls and salad or dessert plates. You can find some sets that have as few as four pieces or as many as 18 or more pieces for larger families or if you plan on entertaining.
Size: You'll find that the size of the dinner plates, bowls and salad or dessert plates can vary from brand to brand, but they're all usually within a few inches of each other. Dinner plates tend to be anywhere from 8 to 12 inches, bowls around 6 to 8 inches and salad/dessert plates ranging from 7 to 9 inches.
Color: There are more colors, styles and designs to choose from with melamine dinnerware sets than with any other type of dinnerware. When you're searching for the right set, the color options almost feel endless—which is both a positive and a negative. Of course, the selection is huge with colors ranging from basics to bright colors to fun patterns to rustic appeal, but it can also feel overwhelming. It might be best to narrow things down based on the color theme or style you prefer and go from there.
We've rounded up our top picks for the best melamine dinnerware sets of 2022, including a wide variety of colors and designs.
1. Gianna's Home Farmhouse Melamine Dinnerware Set
Whether you want a 12-piece dinnerware set for your family of four or just four dinner plates, you can choose from either option with Gianna's Home Rustic Dinnerware Set. The dishes feel like ceramic, but lighter and less prone to chipping and breaking. This set is, however, heavier and sturdier than typical melamine dinnerware. Choose from six colors.
Included: 4 dinner plates (11 in.), 4 salad plates (8.5 in.), 4 bowls (7.5 in.)
2. Amazon Basics Melamine Dinnerware Set
If you're looking for an affordable melamine dinnerware set that also happens to be BPA-free and made from 100% melamine material with no fillers, this Amazon Basics set is the way to go. With 27 vibrant colors and designs to choose from, you're bound to find something that aligns perfectly with your style. The dishes are lightweight, durable and sturdy, and they're backed by Amazon Basics' one-year limited warranty.
Included: 4 dinner plates (10.5 in.), 4 salad plates (8.8 in.), 4 bowls (7.5 in.)
3. The Pioneer Woman Country Melamine Dinnerware Set
There are two sets of designs to choose from with this 12-piece melamine dinnerware set from The Pioneer Woman, and both would make your grandma proud. There's a vibrance to these country style dinnerware sets that's full of color and floral blooms with vintage-inspired scalloped edges. Each piece is constructed from durable, dishwasher safe melamine, and four different colors make up each set. They're perfect for indoor or outdoor entertaining in the spring and summer.
Included: 4 dinner plates (10.7 in.), 4 salad plates (8.7 in.), 4 bowls (8.8 in.)
4. Gibson Home Round Almira Melamine Dinnerware Set
Add some fun and beauty to your dining table with Gibson Home's BPA-free, break-resistant, chip-resistant and scratch-resistant melamine dinnerware set. There are 10 designs options, including citrus, watermelon and galactic designs, as well as basic, yet bright colors. They are great for outdoor entertaining, indoor use for your family and even to use as a dinnerware set while camping or on an RV trip.
Included: 4 dinner plates (10.5 in.), 4 salad plates (9 in.), 4 bowls (6 in.)
5. Elama Fran Melamine Dinnerware Set
Perfect for everyday use with your kids or to enjoy during your backyard barbecues, this 12-piece melamine dinnerware set features pretty blue and white swirly plates and bowls with a black speckled rim. If you or someone in your family drops a plate, you won't have to worry about it shattering, as this set is resistant to breakage.
Included: 4 dinner plates (10.75 in.), 4 salad plates, 4 bowls
6. Zak Designs Medallion Cool Melamine Dinnerware Set
If you like to bring the fun to meal time, Zak Designs' Melamine Dinnerware Set will get the job done. This 12-piece set is ideal for a family of four for everyday use, birthday parties, family events, or to use all year-round for any occasion. There are six unique designs to choose from, and all make a bold statement. The dishes are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.
Included: 4 dinner plates (11 in.), 4 salad plates (9 in.), 4 bowls (8 in.)
7. Bowla Melamine Dinnerware Set
Bowla's selection of melamine plates and bowls are less about bright colors and more about cool designs, although you can also find some vibrant colors mixed in the collection as well. All seven designs offered are so pretty and unique, they could pass as artwork if they were hanging on a wall. The dishes are all BPA-free, stain-resistant, lightweight and dishwasher-safe. If you want a 12-piece dinnerware set that looks fancier than it is, this one's a great option.
Included: 4 dinner plates (11 in.), 4 salad plates (9 in.), 4 bowls (6 in.)
8. TP Store Melamine Dinnerware Set
This 18-piece white melamine dinnerware set can take the place of your current ceramic dishes if you want them to—especially if you don't want to worry about your dinnerware breaking or chipping. They can also serve as excellent party dishes as a step up from disposable plates and bowls—not to mention an eco-friendly option, as well. There are eight basic colors to choose from, including white, ivory, light gray, cyan, wood grain, teal and red.
Included: 6 dinner plates (11 in.), 6 salad plates (9 in.), 6 bowls (32 oz.)
9. Better Homes & Gardens Melamine Dinnerware Set
Bring some chic modern style to your dining room or backyard table with this Better Homes & Gardens Melamine 12-piece Dinnerware Set. If bright and colorful dishes aren't your thing, this black marble set will keep things classic. Even though these BPA-free dishes are technically made of plastic, they can pass as high end dinnerware—at least while on display.
Included: 4 dinner plates (10.85 in.), 4 salad plates (8.45 in.), 4 bowls (7.45 in.)
10. Gibson USA Melamine Dinnerware Set
Whether you're having a party or feeding your family, Gibson USA's 12-piece melamine dinnerware set provides all the dishes you need, including dinner plates, salad plates and bowls. These dishes offer durability and style. This set is dishwasher safe but hand washing is recommended to prolong the lifespan of the dishes.
Included: 4 dinner plates (10.75 in.), 4 salad plates (8.25 in.), 4 bowls (7.45 in.)