Originally published: December 20, 2016
Updated: December 28, 2019
For those new to this website:
Tamara Rubin is a multiple-Federal-award-winning independent advocate for childhood Lead poisoning prevention and consumer goods safety, and a documentary filmmaker. She is also a mother of Lead-poisoned children (two of her sons were acutely Lead-poisoned in 2005). Since 2009, Tamara has been using XRF technology (a scientific method used by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission) to test consumer goods for toxicants (specifically heavy metals — including Lead, Cadmium, Mercury, Antimony, and Arsenic). All test results reported on this website are science-based, accurate, and replicable. Items are tested multiple times to confirm the test results for each component tested. Tamara’s work was featured in Consumer Reports Magazine in February of 2023 (March 2023 print edition).
Which dishes are Lead-free?
How can I choose Lead-free dishes for my family?
Question: “What dishes do you use in your home every day?” I get this question several times a day it seems!
Answer: Keep it simple.
To help keep our kitchen (and the food we feed our children!) Lead-free, we have a combination of dishes we have tested and found to be safe — from stainless steel and titanium camping ware to white glass Corelle. We also have a few other pieces of white ceramic ware that I have tested and confirmed as Lead-free with an XRF instrument. The common theme is simplicity. The fewer decorative elements the less likely new/ modern dishes are to have Lead, arsenic, or cadmium. That said, please note that fancy antique/vintage white fine china can have VERY HIGH levels of Lead, so white ceramic is not a guarantee of Lead-free dishes.
We have purchased most of our dishes at either Ikea, K-mart, New Seasons Market or REI — but some of them can also be found on Amazon. I have included the links to our dishes (or dishes very similar to ours that I would confidently use with my family) below.
Plain White Corelle:
All of the plain white Corelle glass dishes I have tested have been Lead-free. Point to note: keep the glass dishes (plates and bowls) and throw out the ceramic mugs that come with this 20-piece set (if you want to live completely Lead-free). Or (I just found out!), you can buy the 12-piece set with no mugs! All of the coffee mugs I have tested from these sets have had at least some Lead in them (the mugs are made of a different material than the plates). Some of the modern colored designs have also been Lead-free, but the same designs are not consistently available so I can’t make a recommendation for currently available designs that include colorful elements.
Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links where aNY purchase made
after clicking will support this website without costing you ANY extra!
Titanium & Stainless Campware:
While the Corelle is super durable (believe me, ours has survived four rowdy boys and all of their friends), titanium and stainless campware take Lead-free durability up a notch. Bonus: You have dishes you can take with you when you go camping! The links here are not the exact ones we have in our home but they are very close to it. We have stainless plates, bowls, and cups as well as stainless food storage containers. When choosing metal dishware, make sure it is not adorned or decorated in any way. Even the markings for product logos (if painted on instead of stamped or etched into the metal) can be Lead-containing paint as Lead paint sticks to metal better than other paints — my advice: AVOID anything with painted-on logos or markings. Enamel-coated metal camping dishware also often has Lead in the enamel, so I avoid those as well.
Here are some campware options I found on Amazon that are the same or similar to what we use in our homes:
- Compact set from HumanCentric
- 3-piece set of 8.5-inch plates
- Set of four bowls for children from Caveman Cups
- Set of four stainless 8 oz cups from HumanCentric
- Set of four stainless divided camping plates (especially fun for kids who don’t want their foods touching each other)!
Important to Note:
Almost ALL vintage china (and a lot of modern china) I have tested with an XRF has had at least some Lead. Most have been at levels that are hundreds or thousands of times the current acceptable level (set as “acceptable” by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission [CPSC]) for items manufactured and sold as intended for children. I have personally tested thousands of dishes in the past eight years! Dishes are not considered “items intended for children” so they can still legally have total Lead content at levels above what is considered safe for kids. The only dishes that legally have to have coatings or glazes below 90 parts per million (90 ppm) Lead (the CPSC standard) are dishes sold as children’s (or baby) dish sets.
Also very important: I am not saying that your specific vintage or other Leaded china will poison you. (I rarely say that!) What I am saying is that there should be no Lead in our kitchens at all. If we can make informed choices as consumers and choose Lead-free options, why wouldn’t we want to do that? Lead is one of the most potent neurotoxins known to man and does not belong anywhere in our kitchens or on our dining tables. Period.
Tamara Rubin
Mother of Lead-poisoned children
Unexpected Lead Expert
To read more about the potential impact of Lead in dishware, click here.
Amazon links are affiliate links. If you purchase something after clicking on one of oUR affiliate links WE may receive a small percentage of what you spend at no extra cost to you.
These are our favorite dishes right now:
Danielle says
Hi, do you ever test items for people? I’ve been given antique China from my grandmother.
Tamara says
Here’s my post about the testing I do that is reported here on my blog: https://tamararubin.com/2019/08/tamara-can-i-send-you-one-of-my-dishes-to-test-for-lead/
Amanda Lawton says
Hi, firstly, thank you for doing this work!
I have my mother in law’s vintage plain white curelle set and can’t seem to find a sentence anywhere that tells me if it contains lead or not. I see the newer one do not but what about these? I’ve email the company and received no response.
Chami says
Hi there I didn’t know how to send a message so using this method to ask a question. Do Ike’s glass dinnerware and glasses have lead in them? On their website it says no lead or cadmium added. Is that a safe assurance no lead in them? I am switching to glass and would really like to confirm before I make a purchase. Thanks so much for this website. I learnt lots
Annabel says
Look at Duralex. They are glass dishes that I believe are lead free. Or buy from the Corelle pure white dishes, such as Winter Frost, Bella Faenza and I think Cherish range. They are made of glass, but very nice for simple and classy elegance, with a fine China feel. I have one of their bones.
Naomi says
Hi Tamara,
Is Walmart’s mainstays stoneware dinner plates, while with wideish blue trim,
Lead, cadmium, etc. free. Are these non toxic dishes. I was not able to get info.
Thank you in advance for any information.
..also, I have a Mikasa whole wheat set from 1982.
Yes there are flowers to the touch. However, they look exactly like the day they were purchased. Are they unsafe as well.
Sorry for 2 part question.
Thank you very much.
L says
Did you get a response on this? I can’t find info either
Adianez Alfonso says
Hi. Is lead and other questionable materials in the clay or material itself or the glaze? Undecided between 2 IKEA sets one feldspar mo glaze the other stoneware with a glaze. The stoneware says specifically no lead or cadmium, but when I wrote them they said none of their dishware has lead or cadmium.
Thanks for your work!!!
Sherrell says
What is the risk for exposure from a (likely) lead set of antique China stored and displayed, but not eaten from?
MARY KNAPP says
I am wondering the same
Me says
Me too
Sheila says
I am wondering. To about. Just. Displaying old antique. Dishes.
Tamara says
Please read this post for the context and concern: https://tamararubin.com/topics/does-vintage-and-new-functional-pottery-and-dishware-have-unsafe-levels-of-lead/
Kelli says
Can you DISPLAY them safely if you never eat off them?
Tamara says
My concern is that future generations might not know why they were display only and might use them for food – so you could be responsible for poisoning / exposing grand kids and great grand kids if you keep them around.
T
Sherine says
What is your opinion of testing plates with swabs? Is it accurate? I would like to test our plates (but cannot afford the XRF).
Emily H Eubank says
I would like to know how accurate this swabs are because I have some old Hull, brown dishes that I would like to test.
Tamara says
Unfortunately the vintage Hull dishes are very high lead. The swabs are not appropriate for testing them.
Read more about testing dishes here: https://tamararubin.com/2017/02/ask-tamara-q-can-i-test-my-dishes-for-lead-with-a-leadcheck-swab-a-sometimes-but-not-always-click-to-read-more/
Read more about some of the Hull dishes I have tested here: https://tamararubin.com/category/hull/
Thanks for commenting, Emily!
Tamara
Allison says
We have Macy’s HOTEL collection bone china 2011, do you know lead info on these? Or Starbucks coffee mugs 2001-now….thanks!
LJ says
To your knowledge, are there any lead/cadmium free “all black” dishes available?
Thank you so much!
Tamara says
Hi There LJ. I try to give things color codes whenever possible – but I am not consistent about that yet – so I may have a few examples of items I have tested under the category “Black Glaze” or “Black Ceramics” or “Black Pottery” – which are each search terms you can enter in the search bar on any page. Here’s one of those categories to start out your search: https://tamararubin.com/category/black-glazed/ For more of the categories look through the tabs at the top of the post, just under the header.
Thanks for commenting!
Tamara
Jenn P says
I currently have a mix of corelle that are 30+ years and 10+ years old. They are not plain white but I can’t afford to replace them. I did get my son lead free marbles for Christmas!
Marta Justiniano says
Hi is Elama free of lead
Tamara says
Hi Marta – I am not familiar with that brand. Can you find me a link? Thank you – Tamara
Natalie says
I have a Elama set also, it’s tan and brown, has trees and wolves print
Debbie says
So glad you are sharing this information. Dinnerware is how we were exposed to lead and we warn everyone about it. Thanks for all you do.
Marie says
What coffee mugs are safe? Looking for possibly white.
Also is Mikasa antique white dinnerware set if 40 safe?
Tamara says
I have quite a few posts about safe coffee mugs – start with this one: https://tamararubin.com/2019/12/which-ceramic-coffee-mugs-are-lead-free/
Kimberly says
Hello,
I personally tested Corelle white only dinnerware a few years ago by using 3M lead swab. I left the orange liquid on over night. It turned a light pink. My Husband called 3M and asked what did this mean. They said it appears there maybe lead in the product ? What is more accurate the 3M liquid or your way of testing ? I would truly be grateful for a response.
Blessings
Tamara says
All of the newer plain white Corelle I have tested has been lead-free – with an XRF and with a swab test. With the XRF “non-detect” for lead. Is there a chance you tested some older dishes? If it turns pink at all there is lead. The liquid is orange if there is no lead. It is possible that there is lead in your house-dust (if you live in an older home) and that the pink was the result of dust settling on the plate over night. I really can’t say without testing the exact same plate you tested.
Tamara says
In general the material used in the creation of the Corelle plates would not test positive with a swab at all (the swabs are designed to test paint – not glass) – so it really seems likely that the lead was from another source (like your house dust) and I would seriously consider getting a dust-wipe sample test done in your home (especially if it is a home built before 1981.)
Kimberly says
I am the mother of three sons and Your answer has given me peace.My youngest son does not like his food touching. I look forward to purchasing Corelle plain white divided plates . Thank You for answering my question. May God bless you and your very important 🙂
Kimberly says
mission in this Life 🙂
Patricia Partington says
I was interested and amused how your youngest doesn’t like his food touching. I am in my 60’s and STILL don’t like my food touching lol! xxx Trishia
Meerah says
Thanks for the info. What do you think of the Corelle Boutique white dishes? They are plain white with embossed design on them. I am interested in buying the Cherish set if it’s lead free. Do you have info on that? Thank you!
Barbara Rychak says
I am also considering an embossed set of Corelle white dinnerware called Bella Faenza. So I too am interested in knowing if the embossing contains any lead.
Tamara says
These are my favorite! And they are lead-free! https://tamararubin.com/2017/03/faenza/
Stephanie says
What are your thoughts on these dishes being made of recycled glass?
Cathy says
Ikea’s website says “No lead and cadmium added” for some of the white ceramic dishware/mugs (I’m looking specifically for the Vardera and Myndig lines and some 365 bowls). Is it safe to assume that means that it is lead-free although the words don’t specifically say so? Other lead-free dishware like HF Coors seem to use the verbiage 100% lead-free. Thanks in advance!
Adianez Alfonso says
Very good question. I have been considering both. But HF is about $10 each as opposed to Ikea’s $3
Joy says
Tamara tested my HF Coors set and it was 100% lead and cadmium free.
Amie says
Hi, we have a white set of HF Coors purchased approximately two years ago (I had Corelle before that), and they tested at 0.1mg/cm2 and bowl at 0.4. Was/is yours white?
Eric says
Hi Amie! You posted this a few years ago, but I am on the hunt for lead free mugs and came across a set of white HF Coors products like you’ve described. I was wondering if you can provide a bit of clarification on the testing units you measured in — did you mean to write that they tested at “0.1mg/cm3” rather than “0.1mg/cm2”? I am new at this, but it appears that “0.1 mg/cm3” would translate to “100,000 ppb” based on this conversion tool: https://www.justintools.com/unit-conversion/density.php?k1=milligrams-per-cubic-centimeter&k2=parts-per-billion
If this is the case, it does make me concerned about HF Coors, because 100,000 ppb would be a heck of a lot for one piece of dishware!
Eric says
[Edit to my previous post]
I realize that I mistakenly converted to “ppb” instead of “ppm”. When converting “0.1mg/cm3” to “ppm” it is 100ppm, which seems more benign. Nevertheless, if you can still confirm that would be very appreciated…thanks!
Wendy says
Hey Joy can you let me know what set Tamara tester for you from HF coors. Thank you.
Tamara says
Here’s the “HF Coors” category on the website. There’s only one post up right now: https://tamararubin.com/category/hf-coors/
Tamara
Suki says
Hi Tamara, I’m also looking into buying the Corelle boutique cherish set…..please let me know if it’s lead free. Also, what cutlery would you recommend that is safe to use. Any information would be helpful. Thanks in advance
TANJA says
IS CORELLE GOOO FOR HOT SOUPS FOR HOT FOOD
Tamara says
Hi Tanja, yes we use ours (in our home) with hot soup and hot food all the time (in the microwave too.)
– Tamara
Kirsten says
Hi Tamara,
I can’t wait to see more dishware listed that you’ve found to be lead free!
Tamara says
The best way is to watch this new video on searching the blog. There are over 2,700 posts and pages with information and most of it is Lead-free. https://tamararubin.com/2020/12/how-to-use-the-lead-safe-mama-website-video/
Marcia says
So the Corelle dishes are lead and cadmium free but the mugs never are? Does this apply to all new Corelle dishes? Thanks so much!
TIFFANY JONAH says
Hello, how about fiestaware? Thank you!
Tamara says
Hi again, Tiffany! I have tested quite a bit of Fiestaware. Check out this link: https://tamararubin.com/category/fiesta/
Pam Mc says
Do you think the white Corelle with the embossed edges (CORELLE Boutique Swept Embossed 16-pc Dinnerware Set) would be lead free or just the plain flat white corelle? Thanks in advance!
Tamara says
Here is the link to all of the Corelle tests on this site, it includes one of the embossed styles: https://tamararubin.com/category/corelle/
Pam Mc says
Thanks SO much!!
BRANDON RYMER says
Any Ikea dishes tested?
Lisa says
Hi! Have you ever tested Potterybarn great white dishes?
Tamara says
Yes – I’ll see if I can find you the link
Lisa says
Any luck finding the link? Thank you so much!
Sarah says
Hi Tamara,
two questions:
Have you tested the simple lines Corelle dishes/ mugs (older version, 9 years-ish old)
Does the current all white Correlle dishes contain arsenic or cadmium?
Thank you for what you do!
Tamara says
Older Corelle can have lead… the mugs especially. I have tested mugs that are in the 9 to 10 year old range and they are posted here on this blog – just put “mug” in the searcher. The new white dishes contain no arsenic and no cadmium.
Mumofnine says
Tamara, can you please define “older Corelle”? We have had some of the pieces in our set (as they break we just go replace at Walmart for new) for over 10 years maybe even longer. We’ve been married for 34 years and I honestly can’t remember when we began using them
Miranda says
Hi Tamara! Have you ever tested “the natural life” brand mugs? That is the brand that touts living naturally and all things “peace and love” for lack of a better description. Oh the irony should they have lead in them. I’m guessing they do because of the cute artwork on the mugs unfortunately, and being made in China.
Tamara says
I don’t believe I have. Is there a picture you can share with me? Or a link to a specific mug (my brain database is very visual!) – Thanks!
Kimberly says
Hello Tamara,
Would you be interested in testing these dishes? I am curious about the matching mugs? Unlike Corelle matching mugs are made from stone. These are apparently made from vitrified glass china. Please let me know what I have to do to get you to test a line from this company. They look so promising:):):)
http://www.fortessa.com/crafthouse
Blessings,
Kimberly
Kimberly says
Fortessa Fortaluxe
Kimberly says
Can I gift this set to you for testing? I do not need it back. To make it easier for you. This is the same Vitrelle Glass as Corelle but stronger. Used in commercial settings. No scratch marks left on plates. However, it is treated with alumina oxide or magnesium oxide for durability. Please let me know what you think. You are so Valued. Thank You for your time, perseverance, truth-seeking and caring. You are an example of One Person Truly changing the World!!!
https://amzn.to/2Wd1hWK (aflink)
Tamara says
Thank you, Kimberly.
You could purchase it and send it to me for testing if you like. I have a long queue right now – but will get to it as soon as I can. If it is something I don’t have to send back I often put things out on our “free table” for someone in the neighborhood to take (we keep things pretty simple around here!)
You could have it shipped to:
Tamara Rubin
Lead Safe Mama, LLC
7933 SE 15th Avenue
Portland, OR 97202
Tamara
P.S. here’s my general policy on how the testing works – although I do make some exceptions: https://tamararubin.com/2017/07/subscribe-in-support-of-my-advocacy-work-you-can-become-eligible-to-send-in-a-box-of-your-things-for-testing/
katie says
Does this include the coral mugs made in china, indonesia and thailand? They all look the same
Maria says
Hi Tamara,
I just came across your blog after doing some research about lead in dishes also found you on a very trusted blog (ireadlabelsforyou). I tested some of my plates with Christmas theme designs using the lead test swabs and they came out positive for lead. Now I am a little bit panicked about lead in other items in my home. Have you ever tested the brand White Elements? The set of dishes is plain white but made in China. I also have a brand name Home and the dishes have a blue rim also mad in China. If you have any information on these brands, specially White Elements, I would extremely appreciate it as lead testing with swabs can be very expensive.
Tamara says
I don’t know that as a brand. you can email me a pic if you like. But if you can’t find it in the search bar it is just possible I have never tested it. There are so so many dishes out there. Most dishes will not test positive with a swab even if they are high lead, I have a post about that here. So your Xmas dishes testing with a swab means it was on the surface and likely very very high! https://tamararubin.com/2016/12/testing/
Maria says
Omg now I feel even more terrible because I have had those dishes for at least 3 years now and have used them periodically 🙁
I will send you an email with the images of the other brands that I currently have.
I also tested my mugs but now I am questioning if they might have lead even though they tested negative with the swab. I will try to replace them with glass as soon as possible but that can be a hardship to do all at once.
Thank you so much for all of your insight!! I am extremely thankful for your blog!!
Maria says
Tamara,
I sent you and email with the images. I would really appreciate your help in finding out if my dishes have lead or other toxic chemicals.
Thank you so much for all of your work!!
Jill says
Hi Tamara, just found your blog and am wondering if there’s a way we can test dishes/etc. in our own home? Can you tell me what you use for testing and where you get it?
Tamara says
Read this post: https://tamararubin.com/2017/02/leadcheck-dishware/
Tamara says
Here’s the post about the instrument I use for testing. https://tamararubin.com/2016/12/ask-tamara-what-do-you-use-to-test-for-lead/
Nikki says
Have you ever tested fiesta ware? I have the newer made… less than five years old.. I have some… also, I’m guessing my white dishes that are 15+ years old from World Market are unsafe… I will probably be going to the Corning outlet store soon…
Tamara says
Just look up “Fiesta” in the search bar on this site! I have tested many pieces.
erin says
HI! Have you ever tested Schott Zwiesel Tritan Crystal (supposedly lead free)?
Tamara says
I don’t believe I have. Do you have a photo you can share with me?
Shauna Madden says
Hi Tamara,
Have you tested Gibson Miranda white ceramic dinner set for lead and other toxic chemicals. It doesn’t say anywhere about lead.
Tamara says
I don’t believe I have tested this line (Gibson Miranda).
Michelle says
Hi! I opened up the bottom of our Thermos Foogo to check for that lead dot and found a bunch of mold. In addition to a black mark by the center that won’t wash off (almost looks like burnt metal). It’s from 2016. Do you know if it’s safe? My daughter loves it.
I looked into the options you posted but read that the life Factory straw is hard to use and as is the Kleen Kanteen sports top. This is for my 3 year old to use at preschool. Thanks!
Tamara says
I tested this exact container (affiliate link) and all accessible parts were negative for lead: http://amzn.to/2DpjCqM
However it is possible that there is a leaded sealing dot under the bottom cap. Did the cap remove easily? Or did you have to pry it off? Plus – MOLD! yuck! Have you looked into the new Hydroflask containers? All of the new Hydroflask products (new in 2017 or later) that I have tested have been lead-free (the older ones are not). Here’s an affiliate link for a similar product from Hydroflask: http://amzn.to/2EzYFZF
Michelle says
In regards to the Thermos foogo- We had to pry it open. It was glued. I think water must’ve just gotten in there through all the washes. The mold washed off but that blackness by the glue didn’t.
I checked out the hydro flask but need something with a straw for my 3.5 year old to take to school. 🙁 Should I be concerned about the mold? I don’t see how it could’ve contacted her water in anyway.
Tamara says
I think the mold is a concern in general and I would definitely mention it to the company! Ask Carissa which cup she uses with her kiddos!
Mara Woodward says
Hi Tamara,
Have you tested the Pottery Barn Cambria dishes for lead ?
Thank you !
Mara
Tamara says
Not sure. I will look.
Mara says
Thank you so much !!
Evie says
So… I have heard that fiesta dinnerware are a great choice, have you ever tested them, by chance?
Tamara says
yes – use the search-bar to look up Fiesta.
Maggie says
I forgot to check Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Thanks again.
Barbara Rychak says
Just wondering if you have ever tested antique Russel Wright dishes made in Stuebenville, OH.
Tamara says
Hi Barbara. These are the only “Made in Ohio” dishes I have on the site right now. I will look around in my archives to see if there are any others that are not currently published on a post. https://tamararubin.com/category/made-in-ohio/
Janee says
I’m disabled I have used Corelle dishes for years because they are less toxic. However if you drop a Corelle dish it shatters and flies like shrapnel. I wear glasses. A piece stuck into my forehead. I dropped one bowl and it blew up into a thousand pieces. My small dogs were in the kitchen at the time. A piece stuck in one dog’s fur. It’s scary. I’m not able to clean this type of dangerous explosion due to health challenges. If I had small children no way I’ve had these in my home. I found your site because I’m looking for new dishes. Just google Corelle dishes shattering and take a look at the photos. Thanks.
Tamara says
Ikea has a similar type now that may be more durable. They appear to be thicker, but are otherwise similar to the Corelle. You might want to check those out.
Miranda says
So funny! I JUST bought them. Its the Ikea 365 Feldspar Porcelain set and I was thinking about asking if I could send the smallest plate in for you to test, especially since its their new line!!
Janee Campagne says
Thanks.
Madalene Tumes says
Hi Tamara! Are the IKEA 365 plates tested? I’d like to get Corelle plates but I’m scared of shards that many have spoken about when they break (I have a very rowdy 2 year old, he breaks everything). Are the ikea ones tested?
Crystal says
Do you know the name of the dishes or a link to them to buy, the ones with the decorated rum that you said are your favorite dishes right now?
Krista says
Hi Tamara! I have a set of Johan Haviland Bavaria White dishes and bowls made in Germany. By chance have you tested these? Also, since it’s made in Germany is it less likely to contain heavy metals?
I have a photo of them if you’d like me to send. Where would I send it?
Tamara says
When were they made?
Krista says
I’m waiting to hear back and answer on that.
In the meantime, I’m seeing that Correlle’s Bella Faenza has a pretty serving Bowl! Have you tested that and or do you think the serving Bowl could be potentially made out of different material and therefore potentially leaded?
Tamara says
I have the Bella Faenza serving bowls. I love them. They are the glass type, same as the dishes and are lead-free!
Krista says
the Johan Haviland Bavaria white dishes were from my friend’s mom who had them before she did so I’m assuming they’re a little bit older.
Tamara says
Very likely highly leaded. Have you looked up the other German pieces here on my site already?
Tamara says
https://tamararubin.com/category/made-in-germany/
That’s the “Made in Germany” category.
Krista says
No. I thought I had seen everything already. Where would I find that? Unless I did see it and just didn’t realize it.
Tamara says
I just posted the link here for you.
Raelynn says
Thank you very much for this information.
Have you tested Wilton water goblets or Macy’s Whiteware Rim Dinnerware?
I’m trying to figure out how to see what you have tested.
Tamara says
Hi Raelynn!
You can start by looking at the Index on my site: https://tamararubin.com/2018/01/index/
and then by clicking keywords at the top of each post to see more posts tagged with that keyword. You can also look things up by brand. I am not familiar with either of the two items you mentioned in your question. It’s helpful for me to see a picture (via a link) and / or know the year of manufacture. Thanks for reading!
Tamara
Melanie says
Hello Tamara,
First of all, thank you for all the work you do! I read the posts on your site often. Recently, I have been thinking of replacing my dishes with a set of plain white Corelle glass dishes. I’m interested to know if you have tested the black Corelle logo on the bottom of the dishes and if it contain any lead or other dangerous metals. Thanks!
Tamara says
I have tested the logo on the bottom and it is also lead-free.
Marta says
Hello, Tamara!
First of all, thank you so, so much for all your help with these dinnerware issues!!
Have you ever tested LNT Home dishes? I have a set that I have been using for more than 10 years, plain white ceramic, some basket-like embossing near the edges.
Thank you so much in advance for your comments. My head is spinning with so many threats from so many angles!!
Best,
Marta
Tamara says
Thank you for being here and for reading my posts, Marta. I don’t recall testing those. The simplest thing you can do is to send me a photo of the back and front of one of the dishes in an e-mail. I have a very visual memory for this sort of thing and it will help me look up similar examples if I have tested them. My best e-mail is TamaraRubin@mac.com. Thanks again!
Marta says
Thank you very much, Tamara! I will do that.
Katy says
Did you by chance get confirmation about the LNT dishes? I have a set that was passed down from family that we’ve been using for 15+ years. Would love to know if they’ve been tested or not!
Larita says
Thank you for the work you have done! Have you tested Cambria dishes in the color celadon that Pottery Barn sells?
Tamara says
You’d have to share a photo with me. TamaraRubin@mac.com
kimberly berghauer says
https://amzn.to/2FJy1CG (Tamara’s affiliate link)
Can I purchase this bowl and have it sent to you to be tested? I do not need it back to make it easier for you. Thank you for the help 🙂
Tamara says
Sure – here’s how the testing works, you can e-mail me with additional questions:
https://tamararubin.com/2017/07/subscribe-in-support-of-my-advocacy-work-you-can-become-eligible-to-send-in-a-box-of-your-things-for-testing/
Larita says
I can not figure out how to send you a picture through this site. If I send it in an email, will you receive it? I’ll go ahead now and send an email in hopes you will receive it. Thank you!!
Tamara says
Yes – I will get a picture sent to TamaraRubin@mac.com
La Rita Gillispie says
Great! I sent it this morning. It went to your assistant, September. Attachment is at the bottom of my emails. Thank you!
brooke says
Thank you so much for your research! I am pregnant right now and have a 2 year old. We are eating on the pottery barn “classic coupe” do you know if these contain lead? Also some of pottery barn dishes state “lead free” next to some of their dishes. Do you think these are truly healthy and lead free if we switched to these ones?
Thank you so much! Brooke
Tamara says
Hi Brooke!
I don’t believe I have tested those and Pottery Barn can go either way. Here’s a link for how to participate in the testing that I do: https://tamararubin.com/2017/07/subscribe-in-support-of-my-advocacy-work-you-can-become-eligible-to-send-in-a-box-of-your-things-for-testing/
Here’s the “Pottery Barn” category on my blog. In general Pottery Barn has had too many Lead violations (either specific recalls or items that were positive for lead that were not recalled because they were “within acceptable levels based on current regulatory standards.”) for my personal taste and I would not purchase anything from them, ever. https://tamararubin.com/category/pottery-barn/
Here’s the product recall they had (one is too many, if you are wondering what my standards are!): https://tamararubin.com/2017/11/recallpb/
That said, depending on the year purchased your dishes may be fine and may actually be lead-free – can you feel the logo on the bottom? Is it raised? That is sometimes an indicator (on recent pieces) that the logo is lead painted (even if the rest of the item is lead free.) I discuss this in several of my posts.
Tamara
Marie says
Hi Tamara, I’m so grateful for your work. Thank you! I just purchased the Corelle Winter Frost White dishes through your affiliate link and was surprised when they arrived with a silver, raised stamp on the bottom of each dish. I saw that you tested a black stamp; I’m not sure if the silver raised/embossed one is more recent? Have you tested the silver stamp for lead? I called Corelle and they couldn’t tell me that the dishes were lead-free—they could only say that the dishes have been tested according to prop 65 protocol.
Tamara says
Does the back stamp look different than this one, Marie? These were purchased about a year ago. I have some others purchased this year as well.
https://tamararubin.com/2018/11/corelle-vitrelle-plain-white-bowl-purchased-new-in-2017-lead-free/
Tamara
Marie says
Thanks, Tamara! I looked at the images and it’s hard to tell if this new set has a different stamp. This stamp is metallic and sparkly silver. Happy to send over a photo!
Nicole says
Oh my gosh, I am so grateful to have found this site… about four years ago I started collecting and using the 1970s vintage stoneware Midwinter series from the UK and now i feel like an idiot because i assumed that they were safer than newly manufactured items today. I know you have your hands full and i would be so grateful to hear back from you none the less. I’m trying to get over various PTSS relating to wildfires and recently relocated from No. CA to So. OR Everything seems to be a challenge. This dishware i have is glazed and painted with beautiful florals but i fear now from reading your blog that they are most likely toxic… can you advise at all? i know you personally use the embossed Corelle but i am concerned about shattered glass etc. any safe stone ware out there? I would be happy to make donation for your advise or send you one of the midwinter pieces for testing. I apologize very low income but hope my place in CA sells soon. thank you.
Betty says
I have a vintage Stonehenge Midwinter (Sun) set used since I was a child. It is the orange/yellow/white set, see link. I had it tested with an XRF this week and each color tested out differently (orange .07 mg/cm2, yellow .11 mg/cm2, white .05 mg/cm2, inside/clay .2 mg/cm2). Apparently .2 is approximately 1000 ppm. I didn’t have it tested for other heavy metals. http://www.potteryhistories.com/page80.html
Sarah Cooley says
Does this mean they are unsafe? I’ve been wondering the same. I have the Sun pattern, too. Thanks!
Tamara says
Hi Sarah,
Does this mean which are unsafe?
Tamara
Sarah says
Thank you for your response. I have the same Sun pattern of Stonehenge Midwinter as Betty does and had tested. I don’t really understand what the numbers mean as far as safety for use. Thank you.
Taylor says
Does this mean midwinter stonehedge dish sets are unsafe and should be avoided? Thanks!
M says
Tamara,
Ever thought of creating your own line of lead-free/toxin free dish/cookware?
I would certainly purchase and feel confident in my purchase. I appreciate your level of dedication to testing these everyday items.
M
Tamara says
YES! I am working on it. My first products are going to be Lead-free glass #LeadSafeMama measuring cups and Lead-free glass #LeadSafeMama baby bottles! I am meeting with my business partner in this endeavor next week! (Saturday/Sunday!)
Tamara
Maria says
Hi Tamara,
If you create options that are not glass that would be awesome. I don’t like how fragile glass is. If the plates etc are microwave safe that is even more awesome. Thanks for all you do!
Lydia says
Hello!
Have you tested Ikea 365 Feldspar
Thank you
Tamara says
Hi Lydia – it’s best to share pictures with me when asking questions like this. Perhaps you can find a link to the product on Ikea’s website? Thank you.
Tamara
MARY KNAPP says
I am wondering the same
muskvar says
Hi Tamara, I am in the process of changing all my plastic dry food storage containers to glass jars and want my kitchenware to be lead free.After a bit of research ,I avoided coloured glass (blue mason )and painted glass jars bcoz of cadmium and lead content. If I go with a plain transparent jar , would that be always lead and cadmium free? some of the ikea jars, they have explicitly mentioned lead and cadmium free. Some of the jars I found in hobby lobby , bed bath and beyond , they have mentioned just food safe. The glass jar lids are stainless steel.I have given the link for your reference.
https://www.hobbylobby.com/Crafts-Hobbies/Glass-Crafting/Glass-Containers/Glass-Jar-with-Lid—71-Ounce/p/21893
Tamara says
Most of the new/modern clear glass jars will be either 100% lead-free (cadmium-free too), or very low for those metals (within safe range, generally below 50 ppm). In general clear glass with a stainless top is a very good choice.
– Tamara
shal says
I use Finlanda Arabia Ruska dishes.1966-99. Very sturdy. And info on their lead risk?
Tamara says
I Shal – here are the Finlandia posts I have: https://tamararubin.com/?s=finlandia
Tamara
Steve says
Any info on the:
ruska of Arabia?
Tamara says
Hi Steve. Here’s the video showing how to search the website: https://tamararubin.com/2020/12/how-to-use-the-lead-safe-mama-website-video/
And if you don’t find your dish or one similar, here’s how to send one in / participate in the testing reported here on the blog:
https://tamararubin.com/2019/08/tamara-can-i-send-you-one-of-my-dishes-to-test-for-lead/
Tamara
shal says
Thank you!
Jan says
Hi, I was wondering if you know about those cute design bowls from Costco (soup bowls – similar to Anthropolgie)? And also the white Crate & Barrel dinnerware? Have you ever tested either of those? Thank you!
Tamara says
Hi Jan, yes, you can find examples of each of those here on the site. Just put “Costco” or “Crate & Barrel” in the search bar.
– Tamara
Caryn says
Have you tested Gibson Home? They’re white. We bought them last year. Also, are there stainless steel water bottles you recommend? I guess the paint on Klean Kanteens is bad?
Tamara says
Hi there Caryn,
Here’s my main water bottle post, I will let you know when I post something from Gibson: https://tamararubin.com/2017/02/which-water-bottles-are-lead-free/
Tamara
Bistra says
Hi
I have all those dishes and cups from the Rosanna Studio, the valentine collection plates, platter and cups
like this tray:https://www.ebay.ca/itm/Rosanna-Studio-Vintage-Valentine-Valentines-Card-Inspired-Divided-Serving-Tray/283330187205?_trkparms=aid%3D555018%26algo%3DPL.SIM%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20180124145912%26meid%3D44183836e5834c48ade933210c941c40%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D12%26sd%3D133035284353%26itm%3D283330187205&_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851.
Have you ever tested those/similar?
thank you
Tamara says
Hands full! Will respond a.s.a.p., but wanted you to know I saw your comment Bistra!
– Tamara
Kim says
Thanks for the great work!
We just saw your GoFundMe link and contributed, so I wanted to make sure your other readers here also had the chance to know how to thank you by making a contribution https://www.gofundme.com/leadsafemama
Sending virtual hugs for all our grandkids here!
Tamara says
Thank you!!
Tiffani Keyes says
Have you ever tested QVC’s Temp-tations? My mom has their dishes and baking dishes. She’s very concerned. I can’t find anything g online.
Thank you!
Tamara says
Hi Tiffani, I don’t believe I have. You could share a link with an image here, or email me a photo: TamaraRubin@mac.com and I will do my best to respond. My concern is really for any dishes that are more than 10 years old (they are almost all very high lead, regardless of the manufacturer or country of origin)… so if it is older it probably has Lead, but send me a picture and I will respond with an educated guess.
Tamara
Tiffani Keyes says
Thank you! These are very popular on QVC currently (they’re not old). I’ll try and find a picture and email it to you.
Thanks again,
Tiffani
Tamara says
K! Thank you.
– Tamara
Alan says
Hi Tamara, purchased Temp-tations Bakers (color: eggplant) in 2018 from QVC, and recently heard they are leaded. Is that true? Have you ever tested them? Link for your reference: https://www.qvc.com/Temp-tations-Floral-Lace-Set-of-4-Oval-Bakers.product.K45969.html?sc=SRCHI
Tamara says
Hi Alan,
I don’t know that they are Leaded as I don’t recall ever testing those, but they certainly look like something that might test positive for Lead. Here’s how to participate in the testing I coordinate with my readers: https://tamararubin.com/2017/07/subscribe-in-support-of-my-advocacy-work-you-can-become-eligible-to-send-in-a-box-of-your-things-for-testing/
Tamara
Marianne Zimmerman says
I hope all is going better for you and I too want to thank you for all you do! I didn’t find these dishes in your index and I was wondering if you would tell me what you think? The discription looks good, but I trust you for the truth. https://amzn.to/30VNgOF (Tamara’s aflink for these dishes.)
Tamara says
Hi Marianne,
I wouldn’t trust these without testing them. Too many brands have claimed to be Lead-free recently and simply are not.
I just started a new thing tonight in case you are interested in participating: https://tamararubin.com/2019/07/christmas-in-july-are-you-ready-for-the-holidays-click-to-read-about-a-72-hour-special-offer-just-for-lead-safe-mama-readers/
– Tamara
Stephanie L mercer says
Hi, is the Corelle break and chip resistant vitrelle plates and bowls lead and cadmium free? Thanks!!
Kristen says
Hello,
Have you tested the Corelle Boutique Swept Embossed dishes. They are plain white but have an embossed pattern like the Bella Faenza. I was wondering if this pattern was also lead, cadmium, and arsenic free? Thank you!
Shawn says
Hello, I would like to purchase the Gibson Elite Dinnerware Set, it is Hand Painted and the set is called Carla. I have tried doing online research but haven’t been able to find any information regarding lead, cadmium or any other toxic chemicals specifically regarding the Gibson Elite dinnerware sets. Do you have any information or testing experience with this brand of dinnerware? Thank you!
Kim says
Hi
Have you tested the Corelle Boutique Swept Embossed dishes. They are plain white and have an embossed pattern like the Bella Faenza. Just wondering if this pattern was also lead, cadmium, and arsenic free? Appreciate your time and all the work you are doing!
Thank you
Tamara says
Hi Kim,
Thank you for commenting. Any of the new / modern plain white Corelle designs (embossed or otherwise) are Lead-free.
Tamara
Laurel says
I have a friend who expressed concern about stainless steel items made in some countries, primarily China, that may be made of waste steel that could have been, for example, part of an x-ray machine. She’s adamant about not having any stainless steel measuring cups, etc. in her house if they’re made in China. Have you heard this concern about items potentially contaminated with radiation? It gave me pause…and the chills.
Tamara says
Hi Laurel,
I haven’t heard that concern before. My husband is the metals expert – I will ask him to weigh in on that.
Thank you for commenting.
Tamara
Karen Shelton says
I recently discovered your website and have purchased the new Corelle Winter white for our home use. Your website is such an informative one and I am sharing it with my children who now have their own children to pass on the info. I am sure it will help our family in many ways. I have been using Corelle Callaway pattern (1995) for over 20 years now and may stop using them according to the response from Corelle I just read on your site. We also have used Pfaltzgraff Folk Art for years but I think they are ok. Thank you for your time; your work is so important..
Tamara says
Hi Karen! Thank you so much for being here and thank you for taking the time to comment.
I haven’t tested enough Pfaltzgraff pieces to render an opinion unfortunately.
Tamara
Karen Shelton says
Tamara,
Thank you for your response. I have one question about our Corningware cookware with the cornflower blue design. They were my Mom’s and I am wondering since they are older if they are safe to cook in. If not, then I will not be using them. I have 3 of the smaller casserole sizes all with the cornflower on them and are all the older ones. Appreciate your advice.
Thank you so much
Carolyn says
I have winter frost white from Corelle. I noticed there is a grey painted logo on the bottom of each dish. Does that paint have lead in it? Trying to achieve a lead-free kitchen too. Thank you.
Connie says
Hi Tamara,
Could you please tell me if you know if Villeroy and Boch Parkland Green dish pattern is lead-free? I’ve been trying to google for info and it says they are safe. But then I read a New York Times article from 1993… Which states Villeroy and Boch are one of the companies that lied (in a California lawsuit) about lead content in their dishes.
Any information you could provide would be much appreciated!
Thanks!
Connie
Susan says
Hi Tamara! Have you tested other H F Coors dishes besides the large mug? Are they a safe choice for dinnerware?
Karen Shelton says
Tamara, looking to keep my dinnerware lead free and purchased the Corelle Winter Frost White set. Can you recommend a lead free butter dish? I have been using the Libbey cups and glasses and thought that might be a good choice and don’t think Corelle makes a white butter dish. Just curious. Thank you so much for all you do with the awareness of the dangers of lead in our dinnerware. I am sure you are making families saver.
Karen
Cathy says
Thank you sooo much for sharing all your experience and wisdom‼️
I gave FRANCISCAN WARE made in England and gave wondered if it was safe. Do you know?
It’s made in England.
I’d ordered mugs but am returning them pronto after reading your article.
I’m glad Lenox Opalescent is okay‼️
J says
Could you do a post or category in your Amazon store of the most lightweight kitchen items (cookware, bakeware, dishes, glasses, mugs, etc) that are safer? Would be greatly appreciated!
Tamara says
Hi J! I will add that to my “To Do” list! Thanks for the suggestion.
– Tamara
Linda Ridinger says
I have 10 pieces of cornflower baking dishes from Corelle that I know are several years old. Karen Shelton had the same question as I do but I didn’t see your response anywhere. Should I replace them with newer pyrex?
Rsb says
Thanks for all the work you do, I have learned a lot from your site! I am looking around my house now with paranoia, wondering what is potentially full of lead. (Like the stoneware I made in my college ceramics class or have bought off of Etsy…) I am thinking about replacing some of our dishes, since those come into the most contact with mouths/acidic foods. I am not particularly excited about correlle or stainless campware, so I am thinking about going for wooden dishes finished with beeswax. Seems like that would be a lead safe option? Just another idea for people on this page who are also thinking about replacing questionable dishware.
Tamara says
Thank you for commenting!
Shannon McCarthy says
Do you by chance know anything about lead and cadmium levels in any of West Elm’s dinnerware?
Thank you!
Tamara says
Hi Shannon,
I don’t believe I have done much testing for that brand.
Here’s how to send a dish in for testing: https://tamararubin.com/2019/08/tamara-can-i-send-you-one-of-my-dishes-to-test-for-lead/
Tamara
bjorn says
any porcelain /chinese style soup spoons which are lead free? thanks
Laverna says
Thank you, Lead free mama!,
Have you tested dishes from Villeroy and Both? They come in many patterns of fine bone and porcelain china. We are purchasing dishes as a wedding gift for a bride who has survived cancer. They need a heavier weight than corolle… and VIlleroy and Both has a white pattern called : Celini that is the perfect…. the manager promises these dishes are lead free.
Please advise
Brenda Larsen says
I contacted Target customer service and he contacted the vendor for the Project 62 Oller dishes made out of porcelain and they advised him that the dishes are lead free. I’m so happy about that. They’re really nice dishes.
Brenda says
Are the mugs that come with the Corelle winter frost lead free?
Tamara says
Hi Brenda,
Thank you for commenting. The newer ones from these sets (that I have tested so far) – in WHITE CERAMIC – have been in the range of either Lead-free or Lead-safe (below 100 ppm.) Although I have not tested very many of them, so I have not yet posted about this.
Tamara
Brenda says
Thank you Tamara. I think I’m going to donate them. I have a lot of newer Fiesta mugs. I’m so disappointed to find it that Desert Rose dishes are full of Lead. I bought them about 15 years ago and it doesn’t even say on the back of them where they were made. I was just wondering if Lead poisoning could cause severe food allergies. That happened to me after I started using the Desert Rose dishes.
Larissa Covato says
Hi Tamara. I’m a new fan and follower. In the article above you say that all the plain white Corelle dishes you have tested are lead free. Have you tested any vintage plain white Corelle? Mine are from the 70s. Plain white. I’m guessing Winter Frost. Made in USA. Just wondering if they are safe. Thank you in advance.
Tamara says
Hi Larissa – yes, those are also Lead-free.
Thanks for commenting! Welcome to the page.
If you have time, I recommend that you watch my film for a good background of the issue: https://youtu.be/eRKlaC2EjL0
Tamara
Larissa Covato says
Thank you so much for the prompt reply, Tamara! And I’m very happy to hear my dishes are lead-free. I look forward to watching your film tonight. Thank you for all the wonderful work you’re doing. So glad I found your page.
Larissa
Leslie says
Does all Franciscan ware have lead?
I have older desert rose dinnerware that I believe is from the 1950s and made in California. I also have newer desert rose from the 1980s that says made in the USA.
Thanks
Tamara says
Yes. All Franciscan ware has lead and I do not consider anything from that brand to be safe for food use.
Here’s the ‘Franciscan” category on the blog to scroll through: https://tamararubin.com/category/franciscan/
Tamara
Leslie says
Thanks for your help and prompt reply. Glad to know it is not safe to use. I also have Kutani Pink Rose china that was made in Japan. My aunt was teaching at an Air Force base in Japan in the 1950’s, so I assume it was produced then. It is very colorful and has a gold rim. Does most china made back then have lead or other harmful ingredients?
Thanks again!!
Tamara says
Yes – most china from that era is toxic. Japanese china made in Japan for the Japanese market can be safe, but that is the exception (it’s not a hard and fast rule.) If it says “Japan” or “Made in Japan” on the back that means it was not made for the Japanese market.
Here’s the “Made in Japan” category for the blog: https://tamararubin.com/category/made-in-japan/
Tamara
Liliana says
Have you tested any of the new ikea sets, including mugs? They all say lead and cadmium free. Thanks for all you do!
Lynn Smith says
i have the corell sunblossoms plates. I have no idea when these were issued. are they safe to use?/
Lynn Smith says
ARE THE CORELLE SUNBLOSSOM DISHES OK TO USE. i HAVE NO IDEA WHEN THESE WERE MADE. tHEY WERE A GIFT TO ME CUZ I LIKE SUNFLOWERS
Kellymh says
When I search on your site, nothing comes up for testing results of any Villeroy &Boch or Denby… am I searching in wrong place? Have you tested any of them? Some articles say they’re both lead free but doesn’t list any of the other toxins (cadmium etc) and V&B Christmas lines are made in China and have a note that they don’t adhere to calif standards- the other lines don’t say (am most interested in petite Fleur, French garden Fleurence, Audon). Can’t tell with denby either… thanks!
maddie says
HI Tamara,
I saw this on amazon and it says lead free. Do you think it is safe to buy? Could it have cadmium and not lead?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07GDHQR39/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_api_fabt1_lPIRFb93SDTVC?th=1
Thanks,
Maddie
Gika says
Hi Tamara,
I know Duralex Picardie glasses are safe. Is there dinnerware also free from all contaminants that you test for including Barium?
thank you!
Rachel says
Hello, I’m probably being a little over analytical, but I just purchased new corelle dishes.. which I love!! However, I own old silverware from the 70s possibly(not sure because they are all hand me downs) and I used these silverware on the corelle dishes. I was wondering if my silverware does have lead in them, would that lead seep into the corelle dishes? I’m planning on purchasing newer silverware, but I want to make sure that the corelle dishes arent ruined now. I would love any insight you may have to ease a worried mind. Thank you so much
Tamara says
Silverware rarely has Lead in the tines of the forks and other food contact components.
vani says
how about mikasa porcelain dinnerware ?
Tamara says
Hi Vani, There are quite a few Mikasa posts on the blog:
Here’s one: https://tamararubin.com/2020/07/mikasa-white-silk-bone-china-saucer-24300-ppm-lead-on-the-food-surface-90-ppm-is-unsafe-for-kids/
Please also watch this video about how to navigate the website – it will probably help you find things here in the future!
https://tamararubin.com/2020/12/how-to-use-the-lead-safe-mama-website-video/
Thank you,
Tamara
A Jones says
Hi! Have you ever tested Revol dishwater? Their website (https://www.revol1768.com/) claims their products are nontoxic but it is unclear if they are saying the dishes don’t use harmful materials or just don’t leach them. Thank you for your work!
Esther Gideon says
I have Mikasa “Dutch Garden” salad plates & also Nikko plates with a blue flower pattern.
Are they lead free?
Esthet says
Have you tested Nikko dishes made in Japan?
I have a salad plate with blue & pink flowers in the center of the plate & polka dots around the edge. I also have Mikasa salad plates with Dutch Garden pattern. Are lead free?
Esther in Georgia
Meagan says
Hello, I am looking at purchasing Corelle dinnerware. The link you provided to Amazon for the winter white says the plates are ceramic. I found a set at walmart online Winter White, they look the exact same but they are Made of Vitrelle® – a unique three-layer glass-Corelle? Would they be lead free as well?
Annabel says
Go for the vitrelle ones. They are safer, based on some things I have been reading here.
Sarah Dickson says
Any chance you have tested these? https://www.euroceramicainc.com/dine/
They say they are lead free on the website. But not sure with all the colors.
Thanks so much for your help.
Tamara says
Hi Sarah – I have not tested and (given the decorations) I would skeptical that they are actually 100% Lead-free (although they might be Lead-safe like the Polish pottery.)
Tamara
Ashley says
Hi,
Have you tested timeless tabletop brand? This is the brand my parents use and my son eats off of them while at their house.
Thank you .
Tamara says
Hi Ashley – I am a “visual person” 🙂 please send me an email with a photo of both the front and back of the dish you are asking about. TamaraRubin@mac.com – Thank you!
Tamara
Kim Rickels says
I have a lot of dish sets. First one Coventry fine porcelain white made in China. Stoneware Cumberland Brambleberry made in Japan, Mikasa Garden Club made in Japan, and Christmas dishes / with design not microwavable due to gold rim made in China. I assume all are bad. The white dishes I hope are safe?I also read about Tupperware. Is the new Tupperware safe or should I stay away from it. I was hoping to replace old items. I use plastic for camping and stuff because it is unbreakable. Just found your website and am overwhelmed with information and what I should do?
Tamara says
Hi Kim,
The first thing I recommend doing is watching my film – it will help give you context for the issue and will make your decision making process easier (as it will arm you with the science behind the concerns): https://youtu.be/eRKlaC2EjL0
Tupperware post-2010 is supposed to be ok (no Lead, no Mercury, no BPA).
Tamara
Gail says
Hello. My daughter purchased a full set of Franciscan peach reflections. From what I can find it was manufactured in the USA in the early eighties. Is this a safe dishware set for her to use as far as led content? Thank you
Tawnya says
Thanks for what you’re doing! Have you tested the IKEA Gladelig mug?
Tamara says
Hi Tawnya – I don’t know. Here’s a post with more details about participating in the testing reported on this blog:
https://tamararubin.com/2019/08/tamara-can-i-send-you-one-of-my-dishes-to-test-for-lead/
Tamara
Tawnya says
Thank you. I haven’t bought one yet. Was kind of hoping to know if it has lead before purchasing since the options for mugs are slim. Will try to contact the company for more information.
Jessica says
Hello, do you have any info on the “Corelle Madeline Embossed” sets? they are plain white with less embossing then the ones you have. I’m not sure the year I just see them on Walmart’s website. Thanks!
Gisele LaRiviere says
I am just finding out that the Corelle I have been using for years is full of lead! I have served this to my grandchildren! Thanks so much for your information. It’s very thorough. I wanted to know if the Corelle Winter Frost is the same lead free as the Corelle Classic. I am finding it difficult to find the Winter Frost in a big set since I want to replace all my old Corelle. Thanks so much.
Mary says
Hi,
Have you tested Corelle for lead only, or for cadmium and other metals as well?
Carmey says
Would this set also be lead free?
Corelle® Madeline Embossed
Thx!
Tamara says
Hi Carmey – can you get me a link with a picture?
Thank you.
Tamara
Carmey says
Here you go. Thank you!
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Corelle-Madeline-Embossed-Dinnerware-Set-12-Piece-Set/385765218
Carmey says
Sorry I couldn’t figure out how to get a direct link but please let me know if the below works. If not I’ll try something else. Thank you!
Corelle® Madeline Embossed, Dinnerware Set, 12 Piece Set
CorelleModel: 1142726Walmart # 594759625
Walmart.com
https://i5.wal.co/asr/537a342a-5900-4463-82f6-019899037417.9668b2c1596220e97c46d4ad3ceb7924.jpeg?odnWidth=768&odnHeight=768&odnBg=ffffff
BARBARA SMITH says
Is there ANY Solid Black dish set that tests Negative for heavy metals?
If so, can you link an article somewhere that says what your findings were, if any?
Thank you.
Also…
In the “Bella Farenza” Corelle dish set, are those mugs ok to use (W/O Lead)?
Also…
In your article on the white SurLaTable dish set that was tested Negative for lead…
i noticed there were NO mugs in the picture…is that because you didn’t test the mugs? Or…
Were they found to be With lead?
Curious
And yes, i know, you do Not recommend Sur La Table : )
Patricia says
I just read your posts about Desert Rose dinnerware. I bought a set in 2011 from Macy’s. Some are made in China and some in Thailand. Are they all full of lead?
Lisa says
Hi, I just bought corelle white swirl, or enhancements at a yard sale for a steal but after reading this I am a little concerned as it has 2 different sets of production years as they moved it from one line to another. How do I know if what I have is safe without testing each piece totalling over 60 pieces. Have you tested this pattern before?
Anna says
I think, if the dishes are made with glass, instead of porcelain, and there are no coloured decorations, you should be fine.
Amy Elizabeth House says
Are the mugs in the Corelle Embossed Bella Faenza 16pc Dinnerware Set ok? I can see you write about the plain white ones being no good but how about the embosssed ones?
Thank you
Tamara says
The new white ceramic mugs from Corelle (embossed or not) tend to have Lead in the “lead-safe” range (not Lead-free, but normally under 100 ppm Lead.) I would not choose to have those in my home as I prefer to have all lead-free kitchenware on principle – but I don’t expect they would present any sort of health hazard at all at that level.
Tamara
Meghan Fitzwater says
Hi there Tamara,
Do you happen to know if the Madeline line of the Corelle dishes are lead free (a couple of people linked them above in other comments)??
Thanks so much for your time!!
Betsy says
Hi Tamara,
Thank you very much for your work. May I ask if you have tested Villeroy and Boch (their pure white porcelains) and Denby dinnerware? I hope they are lead free.
Thank you!
Ella says
Oh wow, so I found the page I was looking for! So it is the Corelle Bella Faenza that are the pretty ones above (I like a little bit of decoration), but the link only shows dishes that are crazy high in price. I don’t know if this is because this set is older, and so demand for replacement pieces is high, or whether I am seriously out of touch with the price of dishes. Here is the Amazon link to what of this line Amazon currently has: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=corelle+bella+faenza&crid=2O84X4HFJ8GFK&sprefix=corelle+bella+faenza%2Caps%2C85&ref=nb_sb_noss_1
So I am not sure what to do. I can continue eating out of Pyrex/Anchor Hocking, but that leaves me no plates. Do you really think any of the white glass Corelle are safe? Are there any dinnerware full sets out there that are safe and I could just buy? With the Bella Faenza I would have to toss the cups, right? Just trying to get a grasp on what I can and can’t have. Also, your buying links are working. I click on the plate above and I get the Amazon page but with this notice “We’re sorry, an error has occurred. Please reload this page and try again.” Not sure what to do. I will continue to look at your page in hopes of finding a dinnerware set that I can buy.
Thank you!!!
Cynthia says
I like the Corelle Bella faenza embossed dishes, but they are very expensive. Have you heard of the Corelle Madeline embossed dishes? I found a set of 12 at Walmart for less than $40. They are all white, no colors and look similar to the bella but the embossed pattern goes further onto the plate. I can’t find them on the corelle website. Are they legit & if so, are they made of vitrelle glass & are they old or newer corelle & are they lead/cadmium free?
Thank you!
Tamara says
All of the plain white ones are lead-free.
T
Cynthia says
Thank you! That helps! I was just wondering if it’s a real corelle set because I can’t find that name on the corelle website & no matter what I Google the only place that it comes up is at Walmart….
Claire U Hertzler says
Is Italian Countryside by Misaka lead free in white? I purchased before 2008 and again in 2009. Now the stoneware is showing through in the middle of cereal bowl where husband eats oatmeal cooked in microwave.
Erin says
Hi,
I can’t seem to find Denby on your list. Is this something you’ve tested?
Thanks!
CL says
Would you recommend Libbey’s clear glass plates and bowls? They specifically say they are lead-free and you have the coffee mugs in your Amazon list. Would there be any additional concerns with them?
Bettina says
I do wonder if you tested the Villeroy Boch plain white dishes. I am looking at a brand new cake stand. Are these safe?
Sam says
Hi Tamara. Are the below types safe? I would greatly appreciate your help.
– Plain and ribbed white CorningWare (not Corelle), without painted patterns and no markings on bottom (either none to begin with, or perhaps completely rubbed off; just none to be seen at present). Is Pyroceram / Pyroflam itself a concern? Is the rebooted CorningWare from the 2010s any different?
– New Corelle Vitrelle with patterns, post-2010. Are all patterned ones unsafe, no matter how new they are?
– Colored clear glass for baking and on mugs. I often see colored clear bakeware from Arcopal / Duralex and Achor Hocking. I also own a deep cobalt color clear glass mug stamped with “France” on the bottom (not sure of brand). The mug is very smooth and well-made. But is any colored clear glass safe to use? (Perhaps technically, they might be “transparent”, as they have color.)
– Print on any type of “glass” ware. Commonly seen on stone mugs with catchy phrases and clear drinking glasses with souvenir branding. I have a clear uncolored glass mug (possibly stamped “Arc”, can’t remember for sure) that looks and feels very well-made, with a large colored flower print on the outside. I was wondering if this is safe, or if all print contains harmful materials with the tendency to leach.
Linda kociba says
Does the Corelle English Meadow pattern have lead or cadmium? I’m not sure how long ago they were bought. Thank you!
Paula K. says
Are the solid white Centura by corning plates and bowls lead free? They are vintage, before 2000. Thank you!
Tamara says
Hi there Paula! I don’t know if I have tested that exact pattern – but if they are plain white and made out of the corning glass material (not ceramic) then they are likely to be Lead-free and Cadmium-free.
Tamara
Julie says
is alumina vitrified lead free
Loren says
Do you have any recommendations for bento boxes for toddlers? Sending my babe to school in August and want to get something that is safe but not too heavy for her.
Tamara says
Hi -check out the lunch box category on http://www.ShopLeadSafeMama.com
T
Cynthia Valenta says
Huge THANKS for your website and testing of dinnerware!
Have you tested Certified International Florentine dinnerware for lead and cadmium? and for HF Coors, is the all white American Bistro safe?
L Barnes says
I’m wondering with the popularity of the show Yellowstone, if you have tested any 1990 – 1991 and forward True West Westward Ho China?
Thank you so much for sharing this great information with us.
Jennifer Jones says
Hi Tamara, I saw you posted on white Corelle. Do you know if the sandstone Corelle is safe? It has no pattern, so I’m hoping it’s ok! thank you!
Kelley says
Have you tested ahimsa stainless steel childrens dishes? I have plain stainless and the rainbow kind.
Tamara says
No. Someone would have to send them to me for testing. Look under the Participate tab in the header menu of the website to see how that works.
Lisa says
Hi Tamara!
Thank you for the work you do. I noticed in the Corelle links that you have, the dishes are the winter frost white. Do you know if the testing would apply to the bright white and pure white dishes (I have not idea what makes them different from the winter frost white)? Or, how do you know if the Corelle dishes such as those you are using in your house or another set that I have interest in (Linen Weave) are lead free as I haven’t been able to figure out if they are the winter frost white, but with the texture? Lastly, I really like the look of the simple lines set or the Lia set, both from Corelle, but can’t find any testing info for those so I have to decide if I want to take the risk or chose the linen weave or winter frost white. For the newer Corelle dishes that may test positive for toxins, what is it that makes them toxic? The dishware material itself? The “paint” that makes the design? The “finish” that is used on the dishes?
Thank you!
Lisa
Sarah says
Do you know about Termisil? I was recently given some diningware made with Termisil. I couldn’t find much information about it. It appears to be a relatively small brand from Poland. There is a presence on Amazon, which says the product features uses borosilicate glass. The packaging I have at home mentions that the same / similar-looking product is made without lead or cadmium. But being so light and thin (plastic-like, even), and there just not being much information about it, I’m worried about heavy metal contamination / leaching and other toxicity.
Also, are glass jars used in commercial food packaging (i.e., jam, pickles) lead-free?
Mandy says
Can vintage China dishes be used for decoration? Or is it simply harmful to have in your home? Also, does milk glass contain lead and/or other toxins. Please forgive my ignorance.
empleat says
I bought some plates Delight (material Noble China), from manufacturer Snonwald germany. Because it said on shop they are lead and cadmium free, even i wasn’t able to corroborate that, because these plates listed here are too big and thick for my dishwasher machine. I don’t think it makes sense to test old decorated plates, because these are automatically to be assumed to have lead. You don’t have much normal plates tested, what a pity…
Jeanie says
I have a set of Pottery Barn “PB White” dishes. These dishes are marked Made in Thailand. They were purchased in 2008. Have you tested these?
Mich says
Hi,
I’m wondering if you’ve ever tested Stonehenge Midwinter plates. They are white with black/brown specs and rim. My parents gave them to me (maybe from the 70s?) and we’ve served our baby food from them so I’m now very concerned.
Thank you so much.