Dining al fresco is one of the most pleasant ways to experience spring, summer, and fall. However, while it may be tempting to drag all of your indoor dishes outside for a few dinners and brunches, or resort to paper plates and plastic cups, it is important to consider the benefits of using separate tableware for outdoor dining.

Choosing The Best Place Settings, Dinnerware, and Glassware For Outdoor Dining

If you have an outdoor dining area in your backyard or garden, and want to experience the fun and excitement of dining outdoors, consider the following.

• Dinnerware- For many, dining outdoors involves paper plates or dishes normally reserved for indoor use. While this is obviously an option, it may not be the best one for your dining experience. Even though paper plates make clean-up simple, they are environmentally-unfriendly and are often a big no-no in today's world. They are often hard to control on a breezy day as well. Indoor dishes may be a better choice for the environment, but can easily be broken in an outdoor setting.

When it comes to dinnerware, you should consider outdoor-ready options. Hard plastics, like acrylic or melamine, are a great choice for your outdoor table. They are virtually unbreakable, making them perfect for both children and adults to use in an outdoor setting. They are also more environmentally friendly, because they can be washed and reused. Another benefit to these types of dishes is their weight. They are very light, making them easy to pack up for a picnic by the beach or in the park. When choosing dinnerware, make sure you remember the basics, such as flatware, bowls, and plates, but don't forget other essential items like dessert cups, serving dishes, pitchers, and vegetable trays.

• Glassware- Glassware for outdoor use is just as important as dinnerware, and the same considerations should be kept in mind. Use melamine or acrylic glassware for casual brunches or dinners, and always provide this durable option for children, no matter what type of party or event you are having. For more formal events, you may want to consider purchasing clear, shatter-resistant polycarbonate glasses for adults. These glasses come in many forms, from margarita glass to wine glasses, and won't crack, break, cloud, or discolour.


• Place Settings- Choosing the placemats and napkins for your outdoor table can be difficult. After all, you don't want these items to end up in your neighbour's yard with the slightest breeze. For this reason, you should never choose paper napkins and placemats. Instead, consider cloth napkins and woven placemats. Not only will woven placemats add to your outdoor décor, but they are sturdy, durable, and easy to wipe clean once your meal is complete. You can also choose from a variety of other options, such as rattan, ribbed linen, and polyester.

When it comes to outdoor dining, you need to be sure you have the right glassware, place settings, and dinnerware available. With the correct products, you will be able to enjoy dining al fresco even more and be a little more environmentally conscious.  Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6781716