5 signs you need to replace your flatware – according to a master event planner

Given we use them every single day, our flatware sets go through a lot. From eating to dishwasher cycles (to the occasional use of a knife as a makeshift screwdriver), it is no wonder that they start to show some wear and tear over time.

While many flatware sets are generally hardy, when it comes to kitchen items you need to upgrade, there can come a time when a collection will need replacing, hosting experts say.

From discoloration to damage, these are the five signs you need to replace your old cutlery with new flatware, and why it is so important to keep them sharp.

Signs you need to replace your flatware

There is only so much that polishing flatware can do for an old rusty or dull cutlery set. These are the five irrefutable signs you need to go shopping.

1. They have rusted or discolored

One of the most obvious signs your flatware needs replacing is signs of rust and discoloration that don't go away, even when you try cleaning rust with aluminum foil.

Cameron Forbes, event planner and founder of Forbes Functions says, 'If your flatware starts showing rust spots or unsightly discoloration, it's time to consider replacing it. Rust can happen even with stainless steel if it's exposed to moisture for too long or runs through the dishwasher too often without proper drying. To keep your utensils looking their best, try hand-washing them and drying them immediately. But if that rust isn’t going away, or the discoloration is permanent, it’s time to invest in a new set.'

However, it is important to distinguish between tarnish and rust before throwing your old sets out. While rough, red rust is a surefire sign of damage, dull grey or rainbow-colored tarnishing is usually just a sign of surface oxidization and can usually be polished away by cleaning with vinegar.

Combine one cup of white vinegar, available at Walmart, with one liter of hot water and allow the flatware to soak in the mixture for 30 minutes. Finish by washing with warm soapy water and drying thoroughly.

All prices correct at time of publication.

2. They are scratched or broken

Another reason you might look to replace your flatware is heavy scratching or broken knife tips. These usually occur from storing flatware incorrectly, or washing them in the dishwasher when they are better cared for by hand.

While some slight scratching might not be enough to warrant a full replacement set, heavy scratching that visually dulls the surface of the flatware might be unsightly. Not to mention that very deep scratches can make your flatware harder to clean, resulting in a build-up of bacteria that could cause food contamination.

Before tossing everything out, try out our expert hack for polishing silverware to see if that will ease any surface-level scratches. If it does not, then you can consider tossing the offending pieces.

3. They are blunt or bent

Blunt or bent flatware won't just affect the look of your tablescape, it can make it more difficult (and potentially dangerous) to eat, too.

Cameron Forbes, event planner says, 'Knives naturally dull over time, and forks or spoons might start bending under pressure – especially if you’re using them for tasks they weren’t designed for.

'If your knives are no longer sharp or your forks feel flimsy, that’s a clear sign they’ve seen better days. You can try the best ways to sharpen kitchen knives at home, but if the dullness persists or the blades are bent, it’s wiser to replace them. A good flatware set should feel balanced and sturdy in your hand.'

Dull knives and forks are more than a simple inconvenience. They can make it harder to cut and stab food, meaning you need to apply more pressure that could crack or damage your dishes, or send food flying. A replacement is more than worth the investment at this stage.

4. The handles are loose or damaged

Much like the signs it's time to replace your pots and pans, if your flatware handles are loose, you should probably say goodbye.

Cameron Forbes, event planner, agrees, 'If the handles on your utensils are loose or wobbly, that’s a safety hazard waiting to happen. If tightening the screws or bolts doesn’t work, it’s time to upgrade to a new, cohesive set.'

5. They are mismatched

Cameron Forbes points out, 'Have you ever gone to set the table and realized you’re missing key pieces? A disappearing fork or spoon is frustrating and a sign that your flatware set may need refreshing.'

While you could go for a mismatched look to spruce up your whimsical summer tablescaping ideas a complete set is usually easier for your guests to use, and feels more balanced, especially if you are hosting formal parties at home. Complete sets make it a lot easier to set a table for any occasion.

FAQs

How do you make flatware last longer?

Given that your flatware was well made, it is relatively easy to keep it in top condition and make flatware last longer.

The first step is to perfect your tablescaping storage, keeping your flatware divided by type so spoons and forks can nestle against one another to limit scratching, and knives and be stacked together to limit bending or chipping.

Then, consider following some expert tips for washing dishes by hand to keep your flatware from blunting in your dishwasher. Ensuring every piece is dried quickly and thoroughly will help prevent tarnishing and rust.

Meet the expert

Cameron Forbes

With a background in public relations and design, Cameron has planned everything from dinner parties to multiple-day events. The goal is always the same: to see the host actually enjoy themselves the day of.

Keeping your flatware in top condition will only do so much to elevate your table scaping if you do not also pay attention to the tell-tale signs you need new dishes, too.