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Melamine Dinnerware

Since the 1950's melamine dinnerware has not gone out of style. Affordable, unbreakable and available in endless colors and patterns, its appeal endures. Today's melamine is available in a wide assortment of bright colors and patterns that will liven up any kitchen or dining table.

First introduced in the 1930s, melamine dishware gained its first widespread use in the military during WWII. The Navy bought it to replace enameled metal plates that were apt to corrode after rough use.

After the war, various melamine manufacturers, such as American Cyanamid, Branchell and Northern Plastic, contacted well-known designers such as Russel Wright, Joan Luntz and Kaye LaMoyne to create elegant designs that are in high demand today by collectors. It was promoted as an easy-care modern alternative to heavy, traditional breakable china.

Because of its durability, it was and is still in demand by institutions such as schools and hospitals where it withstands repeated use. This same durability accounts for the availability of vintage melamine today. You can always find melamine dinner sets or individual pieces on eBay. You might get lucky in a thrift store, but the quality may not be as good as you can find online.

The best way to care for vintage melamine is to hand wash it with liquid dish detergent and warm water. If you display your melamine vs. serving food on it, you can seal it any dulled pieces with an acrylic spray. Some of the pieces with printed patterns have been known to bubble and crack over time (I have a plate in this condition as well as a burlap-insulated mug with a big bubble inside from when I ignorantly used to to heat up water for tea in my microwave oven).

You should never put melamine products in the microwave; not only will the melamine be heated before (or instead of) the food, but you can damage the product. Other than these caveats, melamine is perfectly safe for everyday use by anyone--babies included. Don't let recent scares over melamine in milk (in China) or pet food stop you from using either vintage or modern melamine. This is something entirely different from eating off of it. So don't let that stop you from enjoying your melamine, whether it's vintage or bright new moderns!