6 timeless pieces from your Grandma's kitchen you're going to want to keep

I don't know about you, but when it came to anything household-related, my grandma always knew best. Whether it was a favorite family recipe or a secret concoction for getting rid of a pesky stain, she always had the answers. She was a housewife who was constantly cooking, so when it came to choosing quality kitchenware, she knew what she was doing. She purchased most of her pieces long before I was born, and much of the collection came out regularly for family meals over the years.

When I think about it, many of the items my grandma owned, she'd had for decades. So, in an effort to understand which vintage kitchen pieces you should be on the lookout for, I reached out to interior designers and vintage experts. Their advice proves the importance of investing in the right pieces and the (sometimes underestimated) power of old classics.

So, keep your eye on these six items next time you're at your grandma's.

1. Vintage china and transferware

My grandma's kitchen was filled with china, from blue and white Spode to more bespoke designs. No kitchen idea is complete without a good set. Whether inspired by vintage kitchen ideas or decorating a less traditional space, there's nothing like a good set of elegant plates to spruce up your walls or shelves.

While there are china display rules worth following, the beauty of these pieces is the vintage charm and patina they give to a space, be it a dining room, kitchen, or even entryway. They're classic vessels that will continue to impress guests, whether you're decorating with them or using them on the table, your grandma's china will continue to be a part of future family rituals.

Hattie Hansard from Joanna Wood says, 'Keep as much porcelain and chinaware as you can store – antique china is a true luxury. When mixed with contemporary pieces, it can create a really striking and personal look. Even if you only have one or two plates, don’t be afraid to repurpose them: they make beautiful soap dishes in bathrooms, or elegant trays for bath oils or jewellery on a dressing table.'

2. Antique glassware

Whether it's a champagne coup, goblet, or tea glass, you'll likely find some type of glassware in your grandma's kitchen. Traditional glassware is worth collecting, making excellent additions to the home aesthetically and functionally.

Hattie shares her expert tips on thrifting vintage glassware, saying, 'Antique glassware is also worth holding onto – mismatched sets can add charm and character to a modern table setting, and look great on a bar, even a single glass to hold cocktail stirrers and paraphernalia can really knock the stuffing out of a modern bar trolley.'

Fear not if your grandma's kitchen doesn't feature glassware; you can find plenty of reasonably priced vintage styles at estate sales and thrift stores, making starting an antiques collection a satisfying venture.

3. Good linen

My grandma knew how to set a dining table, always ensuring it was laid with a classic linen tablecloth and matching napkins. So if you're unsure how to choose a tablecloth, look to your grandma's timeless collection for inspiration.

Interior designer Tara Shaw says, 'When an event or holiday rolls around, I am so grateful to have my grandmother's china, vintage glassware, and linens. Not only does it bring back wonderful memories, but it elevates the dinner or event.' While some materials are unlikely to stand the test of time, organic linen will last if stored and cared for well, and will help you create a classic, traditional dining room look that pays homage to your grandmother.

Hattie agrees, saying, 'Good linen, vintage napkins, and old tablecloths are always worth saving. They bring a sense of heritage and texture to a table.' While there are plenty of vintage styles (hand-embroidered, crocheted, and block-printed are classic examples) on websites like eBay, countless homeware brands have created lasting table linen inspired by the past.

4. Decorative ceramics

Ceramics are a classic in any kitchen style, so you'll likely find some pottery in your grandma's kitchen, whether a hand-painted fruit bowl or a salad bowl and servers. Often bold and distinct, decorating with vintage ceramics is a classic way of giving the home a sense of whimsy and character.

Interior designer Georgie Wykeham says you should keep any 'Really good ceramics.' She continues, 'My Grandma had amazing plates, dishes, decorative china pots of oranges and lemons, she either hung it, had it in cupboards, or on display – none of it was a set, but it all worked so well together.' If one item catches your eye, the beauty of decorating with ceramics is the individuality of the pieces, so don't feel you need to match everything.

Georgie adds, 'She was a gluten for a bowl and I still today have lots of her little bowls, salt cellar, and the pot of ceramic lemons and oranges in my kitchen at home and I love them!'

Interior designer Shani Core says, 'My grandmother had a beautiful selection of porcelain antique plates, I love to hang them on the wall and mix with more modern elements. Bringing your grandmother’s memory into your kitchen is always a great idea and is easier than you would think!'

5. Quality cookware

There are countless ways to turn your kitchenware into decor, so be mindful of any quality cookware that your grandma may have once had. These pieces are functional and likely to last beyond their years, as well as being the perfect source of decoration for the kitchen.

Hanging copper pans can give you that farmhouse kitchen feel. Even the oldest copper pots and pans can be cleaned and made new, and work well alongside a variety of cookware. However, if you're planning to cook with these pieces, you might be better off with a newer version.

Shani says, 'My favorite item I inherited from my grandmother is her well-loved and used old cast iron skillet. When I am not using it, I love to keep it on my stovetop as one of my styling tools instead of hiding it in a cabinet.'

You might notice a Le Creuset Dutch oven in your grandma's kitchen, too. An example of kitchenware that lasts for years, keep your eyes on this style if you're looking for a reliable vessel that can be relied on for years of cooking. Store away in a cabinet or leave out on your stove for a characterful display that honors grandma's cooking.

6. Classic cutlery

While old cutlery isn't always in the best state, it's a good idea to swot up on the best vintage flatware styles and makers, as you never know, your grandma might have a collectible set. Fine quality silver or gold cutlery is a surefire way to elevate your table, too, and will make an impressive statement when having guests over.

Georgie says, 'I love a traditional bone handle knife – a nightmare as it adds to washing up, but there is something so good about the weight and feel!' Whether it's a set of ornate Art Deco spoons or Baroque-inspired dessert forks, these pieces will continue to shine for years. However, look out for signs you need to replace your flatware if planning on using these pieces often.

There are vintage pieces every kitchen should have, and that includes your grandma's collection of cookware, china, and linen. These pieces are not only classic in design, but they're also made with quality and endurance at their core, making them a wise and welcome choice for homes everywhere.