Looking for silverware that strikes the perfect balance between style and durability?
Well, Cambridge silverware might have caught your eye—and for good reason. At first glance, this set offers an appealing satin finish, contemporary design, and convenience for both everyday use and special gatherings.
But let me tell you, it’s worth taking a closer look before you make your decision. I’ll share my experience, along with a detailed analysis of the pros, cons, comparisons with other brands, and maintenance tips to give you the full picture.
First Impressions of Cambridge Silverware
Cambridge silverware certainly has an eye-catching design.
The satin-finish stainless steel gives it a sophisticated, slightly matte look that reminds me of fine pewter.
It’s contemporary without being too flashy, which makes it adaptable for a variety of table settings—from casual weeknight dinners to family gatherings where you want to add a touch of elegance.
The set includes everything you need for a full dinner service. You’ve got your dinner forks, salad forks, soup spoons, teaspoons, and knives—plus an added bonus: a hostess set that includes a meat fork, butter knife, sugar spoon, and pierced and solid serving spoons.
On paper, it sounds like a well-rounded package that’s perfect for any occasion.
But, as they say, the devil is in the details. Let’s break down the pros and cons of Cambridge silverware and see if it’s truly worth your money.
The Pros of cambridge Silverware
- Elegant Satin Finish: One of the first things that drew me to this set is the satin finish. It’s got that sophisticated pewter-like appearance, which makes the set visually appealing without overpowering your table setup. It’s ideal for anyone who likes a more understated but still classy look. Plus, the satin finish means you won’t have to deal with the glare of polished stainless steel.
- Comfortable Balance and Weight: If you’ve ever held a fork that feels either too flimsy or too heavy, you know how much the weight of silverware matters. Cambridge silverware strikes a nice balance between light and heavy, offering a comfortable grip without being awkward or unwieldy. The balance of these pieces makes them enjoyable to use, whether you’re just having a simple dinner or hosting guests.
- Service for Eight Plus Hostess Set: The fact that the set includes service for eight, plus a full hostess set, is a major plus for those of us who enjoy hosting dinners. The hostess set adds versatility to the whole package, covering almost all your serving needs without having to dig around for mismatched serving pieces.
- Dishwasher Safe: Dishwasher compatibility is a huge deal in my household. This set promises to be dishwasher-safe, making it convenient for everyday use. Not having to hand wash the pieces is definitely a time saver, and this promise appeals to anyone looking for hassle-free cleaning.
The Cons of cambridge Silverware
Unfortunately, not everything about Cambridge silverware lives up to the initial promise. I’ve encountered some frustrating issues that definitely need to be highlighted before you decide whether this set is right for you.
- Rust Issues: The biggest issue I’ve noticed—and that others have also pointed out—is rust. Although the set claims to be stainless and resistant to discoloration, I’ve seen rust develop after only a few months of use. This problem seems to appear particularly after dishwashing, even when taking precautions to dry them immediately. For a product that advertises “no discoloring” and “never needs polishing,” this is a major disappointment.
- Metallic Taste: I also found that, especially when new, these pieces have an unpleasant metallic taste. While it does fade after repeated washing, it’s not what you’d expect from quality stainless steel cutlery. Several users have pointed this out, and I can confirm it’s not the kind of thing that makes you want to reach for a second spoonful.
- Durability Concerns: Another problem is the staining. While the satin finish is beautiful, I’ve found that the pieces are more prone to developing water stains and other discolorations than other sets I’ve owned. This seems counterintuitive since stainless steel is supposed to resist these very issues. It detracts from the set’s overall aesthetic appeal and means extra work in cleaning and polishing.
Comparing Cambridge Silverware With Other Brands
So, how does Cambridge stack up against other brands out there? I’ve used several different sets over the years, so I’ll provide some comparisons to help put things into perspective.
- Cambridge Vs. Oneida
Oneida is one of the more popular names in the flatware world, and I’ve had a far more positive experience with their products. Compared to Cambridge, Oneida offers much better durability.
They also tend to have a similar weight, but without the rust and staining issues. Oneida silverware has remained shiny and rust-free even after years of dishwasher use, while Cambridge just hasn’t held up as well.
- Cambridge Vs. Zwilling JA Henckels
Another brand that comes to mind is Zwilling JA Henckels. While Henckels might be best known for their knives, they also offer silverware that is significantly higher in quality. I noticed no rusting issues with Henckels, and the pieces have a high-quality polish that’s easy to maintain.
In comparison, Cambridge feels more like a budget option—better for short-term or occasional use, but not ideal if you want something that’s going to look pristine in the long run.
- Cambridge Vs. Liberty Tabletop Flatware
Liberty Tabletop stands out as the only flatware manufacturer producing 100% American-made products, crafted in Sherrill, New York.
They utilize high-quality 18/10 stainless steel, ensuring superior rust resistance and a lasting shine.
In contrast, Cambridge silverware is typically manufactured in various international locations, often using lower-grade stainless steel, which may contribute to issues like rust and discoloration.
Users of Liberty Tabletop flatware frequently praise its durability and the company’s commitment to American craftsmanship. The brand offers a variety of designs, from classic to contemporary, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences.
While Liberty Tabletop products are generally priced higher than Cambridge, the investment reflects the quality and longevity of the flatware.
Maintenance Tips For Cambridge Silverware
If you decide to go with Cambridge despite some of the drawbacks, you can take a few steps to extend its life and keep it looking as good as possible:
- Hand Wash When Possible: Even though it says dishwasher-safe, I would strongly recommend hand washing these pieces. The dishwasher seems to encourage rust and spotting, so a quick hand wash can make a big difference.
- Dry Immediately: Don’t leave your silverware to air dry. Instead, towel dry immediately after washing to prevent water stains and rust from forming.
- Avoid Harsh Detergents: Use mild dish soap to wash your flatware. Harsh chemicals can damage the satin finish and exacerbate rusting issues.
- Polishing Occasionally: A light polish every now and then can help maintain that satin look and prevent discoloration, especially if you’re noticing water spots that just won’t go away.
- Store Properly: Make sure your silverware is completely dry before storing it. A dry environment will help prevent any rust from forming, especially on the tines of forks or other thinner areas.
Should You Buy Cambridge Silverware?
Ultimately, I wouldn’t recommend Cambridge silverware if you’re looking for something truly durable or long-lasting. The initial appeal is strong—I mean, it looks great, and the satin finish gives it a contemporary edge that’s hard to find at this price point.
However, the rust issues and durability concerns are too significant to ignore.
If you’re just looking for an affordable set that you’ll use for special occasions or are willing to take extra care of, then Cambridge could work for you. But for everyday use, where convenience and reliability are key, you’d be better off investing in a higher-quality brand like Oneida, Henckels, or Lenox.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Good quality silverware usually has a weight that feels comfortable in your hand—not too light and not too heavy. Look for a polished finish without blemishes, as well as markings like “18/10” stainless steel, which indicates a higher quality alloy with added nickel for shine and rust resistance.
Cambridge cutlery is typically manufactured in several locations, including China and other countries where production is cost-effective. This is part of the reason why it’s more affordable compared to other high-end brands.
The best grade for stainless steel flatware is 18/10. The “18” refers to the percentage of chromium, which adds durability and rust resistance, and the “10” is the percentage of nickel, which adds shine. Cambridge silverware is generally not 18/10, which is why it may not resist rust as well as other high-quality sets.
Yes, JA Henckels is well-regarded for its silverware. Their flatware is known for being sturdy, well-balanced, and resistant to rust and stains. Henckels pieces also have a polished finish that makes them suitable for both casual and formal dining, without the quality issues that tend to plague more budget-friendly sets.
Final Thoughts
At first glance, Cambridge silverware offers an attractive design and good value, but when it comes to everyday practicality and durability, there are better choices out there.
If you’re after a set that will stand the test of time and look great doing it, I’d suggest looking at brands like Oneida or Henckels—they might cost more upfront, but they’re ultimately a far better investment.