Types of Flatware

Flatware Weight

Restaurant flatware comes in four different weights: forged, extra-heavy, heavy, and medium weight. Read on to learn about each flatware weight so you can decide which is best for your business.

1. Forged Flatware:

Forged flatware is the thickest and strongest type of flatware. It is made from a single piece of thick stainless steel which creates the pattern on all sides of the handle rather than just stamped on the top. It is extremely durable and built to withstand any commercial environment, while also fitting in well with upscale dining.

2. Extra Heavy Weight Flatware:

As our premium grade of flatware, extra heavy weight flatware exudes a level of quality that you will see at most finer restaurants and hotels. It feels very sturdy in your hand and is very difficult to bend, compared to medium or even heavy weight flatware.

3. Heavy Weight Flatware:

Heavy weight flatware is more durable than medium weight flatware, not easily bent, and makes for a nice presentation. As a definitive step-up in quality from medium weight, it is commonly used in fast-casual dining establishments and many other mid-level eateries.

4. Medium Weight Flatware:

Medium weight flatware is the lightest flatware that we carry. This is primarily called medium weight flatware in the industry, but it can also be called economy weight and is commonly sought by the value-minded buyer. Medium weight flatware is often bendable in your hand and commonly found in cafeterias, schools, and other institutional settings.

Back to Top

How to Clean Stainless Steel Flatware

Whether you're using a three-compartment sink or a commercial dishwasher, stainless steel flatware will last longer and look better if you keep the following tips in mind:

1. Remove all food remnants from your flatware as soon as possible.
2. Sort and handle properly. It's a good idea to sort the tines, blades, and bowls down if you transport and wash flatware in the same cylinders. When washing in the flatware cylinders, it's a good idea to mix up the flatware so forks and spoons don't "nest" and to wash with the business end up.
3. Presoak for approximately 20 minutes. Noble Chemical's Silva Soak presoak powder is a great choice for presoaking your stainless steel flatware. This concentrated powder penetrates and saturates soils for more effective removal in your wash cycle.
• Don't forget to change your soaking solution after a few cycles; otherwise, chemicals and food particles will accumulate and reduce its effectiveness.
4. Like all stainless steel, hard water and detergents high in chlorides will eventually break down the protective film. As long as you follow proper presoaking and drying procedures and your dish machine is rinsing correctly, any high quality detergent and sanitizer should not harm your flatware.
5. To ensure your flatware always looks its best, be sure to polish immediately with a microfiber cloth or mitt, eliminating any water spots or smudges.