What Does 18/10 Stainless Steel Mean in Flatware?

When purchasing stainless steel flatware, you may have noticed a label like “18/10” stamped on the back of spoons, forks, or knives. But what does it actually mean?

As an experienced stainless steel flatware manufacturer, FANGYUAN is here to help you understand what 18/10 stainless steel stands for, why it matters, and why it’s a top choice for high-quality flatware—especially for premium brands, hotels, and international retailers.

What Is 18/10 Stainless Steel?

The numbers “18/10” indicate the proportion of stainless steel:

• “18” represents 18% Chromium, providing excellent corrosion resistance and protecting the steel from rusting and staining.
• “10” refers to 10% Nickel, which hardens the steel and gives the steel a brighter, shiner, and cleaner finish.

In short, 18/10 stainless steel is a superior-grade alloy that combines strength, shine, and corrosion resistance—making it ideal for long-lasting flatware.

Valuable Benefits of 18/10 Stainless Steel

Exceptional Rust & Corrosion Resistance

Designed to withstand moisture, acids, and everyday wear, 18/10 steel stays rust-free and maintains its appearance over time.

Elegant Shine and Polished Appearance

Thanks to the large content of nickel utilized, the material gives a vibrant, mirror-like appearance and polished finish, which makes every meal sophisticated.

Food-Safe and Non-Reactive

18/10 stainless steel is also BPA-free and non-toxic and won’t react with acidic or hot foods and therefore keep food hygiene and safety intact.

Easy to Clean and Dishwasher-Safe

It resists frequent washing, such as from dishwasher and high-volume commercial kitchen washings, without fading its luster.

18/10 vs. 18/8 vs. 18/0 Stainless Steel

Not all stainless steels are created equal. Here’s a quick comparison of common types:

For premium hospitality or consumer brands that value quality and longevity, 18/10 stainless steel stands out as the gold standard.

Why FANGYUAN Recommends 18/10 Stainless Steel?

At FANGYUAN, We offer a range of stainless steels from 18/0 through 13/0 and beyond—adapted to a number of different markets and pricing plans. However, we strongly recommend utilizing 18/10 stainless steel in a high-quality flatware set. Here is why:

• Perfect for export-oriented markets such as Europe and North America, where quality, strength, and looks are priorities.
• Enhances brand and product worth and thus makes it easier to position your flatware line as upscale.
• Perfect for high-usage environments such as hotels, fine dining restaurants, and catering services.
• Ensures long-term customer satisfaction by delivering a better tactile experience, corrosion resistance, and a timeless look.

Whether you’re building a luxury flatware brand or supplying large-scale commercial clients, 18/10 is the material that aligns with top-tier performance expectations.

Conclusion: Material Quality Defines Flatware Excellence

Understanding 18/10 stainless steel will assist businesses and consumers in making an informed choice. For manufacturers and retailers, using this premium-grade material can greatly improve the value and quality of their flatware.

As a trusted stainless steel flatware manufacturer, FANGYUAN is committed to delivering excellence through advanced materials, customizable designs, and strict quality control.

Contact us today to learn more about our 18/10 stainless steel products, OEM/ODM capabilities, or wholesale partnerships.