Ceramic bowl VS. Porcelain bowl - Which Is Better To Use In Family?

Ceramic and porcelain are two familiar materials in our daily lives, however they have distinct characteristics as well as different applications. Let's explore with CHUS the differences between "ceramic" and "porcelain" and understand clearly whether you should use ceramic or porcelain cups!

“Ceramic” and “Porcelain” are the same or different?

Ceramic is a material that dates back to about 25,000 years ago,  created from clay and some other minerals, then fired at a temperature of about 700 - 800 degrees. Ceramic products are often brown, red or gray in color, depending on the type of clay and minerals used. Ceramic is highly durable, resistant to temperature and abrasion, but is not as smooth and shiny as porcelain.

Ceramics appeared a long time ago in human history

Porcelain is a type of ceramic material and is made from pure white clay (kaolin), then undergoes a firing process at very high temperatures, ranging from 1200 degrees - 1300 degrees. Porcelain is white, smooth and shiny, waterproof and very durable. The toughness and brilliance of porcelain mainly come  from the formation of glass and mineral mullite in the material components fired at high temperatures.

Whether it's ceramic or porcelain, it goes through a very elaborate process

The similarity between ceramic and porcelain is that they are both made from clay and must undergo high-temperature firing to achieve the necessary hardness and durability. Both types of materials have good heat and abrasion resistance, so they are widely used both in everyday life and in industry.

However, ceramic and porcelain also have many obvious differences. Ceramics often have inconsistent colors and surfaces, and may have small holes because they are not fired at high temperatures like porcelain. Porcelain, on the contrary, has a smooth, bright white and waterproof surface thanks to being fired at very high temperatures. In addition, the porcelain production process is also more complex and requires higher techniques than ceramic.

Ceramics can be applied in many fields, for example making bricks in construction

Ceramic is often used in applications that require high mechanical strength, but do not need the smoothness and high aesthetics of porcelain. Ceramic is often used to make flower pots, kitchen utensils, decorations and construction materials, etc.  On the contrary, porcelain is popular in applications that require high aesthetics, smoothness and resistance. absorb water such as dining utensils and high-end decorations. Besides, porcelain is also used in industry to manufacture electronic components and medical equipment.

You can look more at: Ceramic & Porcelain - Are You Confusing These Two Concepts?

Should I use a ceramic bowl or a porcelain bowl?

As mentioned above, ceramic and porcelain both have their own advantages and disadvantages. But CHUS believes that the following are the reasons you should choose porcelain cups instead of ceramic cups.

1. Durability

Ceramic cups are more durable. Porcelain is fired at very high temperatures, making porcelain cups harder and less susceptible to scratches than ceramic cups. This durability helps ceramic cups withstand impacts better, reducing the risk of chipping or breaking during daily use.

Porcelain undergoes a high-temperature firing process to increase its durability

2. Waterproof

Porcelain bowls are waterproof. Due to the special manufacturing process, the ceramic bowl has a smooth surface and no small holes, helping to prevent water from seeping in. This not only makes ceramic cups easier to clean but also helps maintain better food hygiene and safety. Meanwhile, ceramic cups may have tiny holes that make it easy for water and bacteria to seep in, making cleaning difficult and posing a potential health risk.

3. Aesthetics

Porcelain bowls have a more aesthetic appearance. Porcelain has a bright white color, smooth and glossy surface, bringing a luxurious and sophisticated feeling to meals. Porcelain bowl also often have sophisticated and diverse decorative patterns, making your dining table more beautiful and rich. In contrast, ceramic bowls often have simpler colors and patterns, which do not create a strong aesthetic impression.

Aesthetics is one of the important factors that influence the decision to choose a ceramic or porcelain cup

4. Retains heat well

Ceramic bowls retain heat better. When used to hold hot food, ceramic bowls have the ability to retain heat longer, helping dishes stay warm longer and retain better flavor. Ceramic bowls, although also capable of retaining heat, are not as good as porcelain ones.

5. Diversity

Finally, porcelain bowls come in a variety of designs and sizes. On the market, you can easily find porcelain cups with many different designs, sizes and patterns, suitable for many decorative styles and usage needs. This makes it easy for you to choose products that suit your family's preferences and needs.

Thanks to the talent and techniques of the ceramic makers, the "appearance" of Vietnamese ceramics is very diverse and outstanding

However, porcelain bowls also have some disadvantages such as higher cost than ceramic cups. But considering durability, aesthetics and hygiene, investing in ceramic cups is a reasonable and long-term choice.

You can look more at: Famous Glaze Styles of Vietnamese Ceramics

Conclusion

Hopefully through the above article, CHUS has partly helped you compare the similarities and differences, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of "ceramic" and "porcelain". Choosing ceramic bowls brings many benefits in terms of durability, aesthetics, heat retention and hygiene safety for you and your family. Especially when Vietnamese ceramics are famous for their diverse designs, quality and skillfully crafted by skilled artisans not only in the past but also in modern times.

Visit CHUS today for the opportunity to own unique and beautiful porcelain and ceramic bowls!