Melamine, actually called melamine resin, is a hard plastic made with melamine and formaldehyde. It was a material used for making tough and almost unbreakable dinnerware that grew to be quite fashionable in the 1950s and 1960s. Due to it's indestructible nature, melamine dinnerware is nearly impossible to recycle, so if you desire your own melamine housewares, buying vintage is highly recommended! Melamine was produced in pleasant pastels and the very popular "harvest" colors (green, orange, and yellow) that originated with Tupperware. It was used to make plates, saucers, mugs, cream and sugar sets, trays and more. The more rare items are butter dishes and salt and pepper shakers. To care for your melamine dinnerware, do not put it in the microwave or anywhere near the stove. Melamine degrades at high temperatures. Some sources claim it is safe in the dishwasher, but warm soapy water is my recommendation.To see vintage melamine / melmac housewares that are for sale here on Vintage Picnic, just click here now! |
