Best Tried & True Brand: Dixie 10 Inch Paper Plates, Dinner Size Printed Disposable Plate

Yes, we tried out a wide variety of paper plates to figure out what is best for different occasions. And yes, there are some well-known brands and others that were lesser known, but still were impressive in their real-world performance.

That said, we know that some folks prefer a tried and true brand when it comes to paper plates for an important occasion. In that case, we recommend Dixie Everyday Paper Plates. This pack of 204 plates fits the bill—no leaks, sturdy and they even look nice.

What We Liked

• Made in the USA.

• Microwaveable.

• 10″ size is perfect for most everyday uses.

• Simple design works well for most occasions.

What Needs Work

• Not as strong as other Dixie plates. These are part of Dixie’s basic line. If you want something stronger, you should consider one of their heavier duty plates that have more layers. 

Best Eco-Friendly: Eco247 100% Compostable Large Plates

We tried out several fully compostable/recyclable plates before deciding this one by Eco247 is the best bet for most folk—it is sturdy and durable . . . yet hits all the eco-friendly points.

What We Liked

• Microwave safe.

• Made of 100% sugarcane bagasse.

• Didn’t leak in our tests.

 What Needs Work

• Pricey.

Best For Fancy Party: [60 Piece] Combo Silver Trim Plastic Plates

When we asked our parent readers for their favorite paper plates, this brand (Comfy) was mentioned by more than one person—especially for a fancier look that would be right at home at high style soirees. We especially liked the silver trim on this plate combo. And yes, this package includes both 10″ dinner plates and smaller 7″ salad plates . . . a good combination for most events.

What We Liked

• Great for festive celebrations.

• Sturdy.

• Can wash and reuse.

• Includes both 10″ dinner plates and 7″ salad plates.

What Needs Work

• Pricey.

About the Authors

Denise & Alan Fields are consumer advocates and best-selling authors. The Fields have authored 12 books with three million copies in print, including the best-selling guide to baby gear, Baby Bargains.

The Fields have been featured and quoted in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and Los Angeles Times.

As consumer products experts, the Fields have been guests on the NBC Today Show, Good Morning America and ABC’s 20/20.

How We Pick Products To Recommend

We often turn to our readers (3 million strong!) to find products to recommend. We ask our parent readers for their favorites and consider their real-world experiences in our recommendations.

When we test a product, we always purchase it with our own monies. We do not take free samples, as we believe that compromises our independence.

We also fact check manufacturer information with our own measurements. If a maker claims a product weighs X pounds, we will weigh it to make sure. If the battery life is supposed to be six hours, we will see how it stands up in the real world.

In some cases, we will do interviews with experts in the field to get additional feedback on products.

To get hands-on time with products, we regularly meet one-on-one with gear companies and even tour manufacturing facilities. (When we do this, we pay our own travel expenses).

Why Trust Us

We’ve been rating and reviewing products for the home and families since 1994. We do extensive research, evaluating products with an eye toward quality, ease of use and affordability.

We make our living from affiliate commissions, but we always recommend what we think are the best bets for our readers (not the ones that are the most expensive). We are always looking for products that offer the best bang for the buck.

Our independence is a key reason why we have been doing this so long. As we mentioned above, when we purchase a product for hands-on testing, we do so with our own money.

Here’s another key point: we don’t take money from the brands we review. No free samples, no sponsors, no “partnerships.” Our work is 100% reader-supported!