What Are Charger Plates Used For? All You Need to Know

Charger plates might seem like a small detail, but they make a big impact on your dining table. Wondering what is the purpose of a charger plate, or why it’s called that? From adding depth and texture to protecting your table linens, charger plates combine form and function beautifully. In this article, Artera Home unpacks everything—from how to use charger plates to smart alternatives for minimalist spaces.

What Is a Charger Plate?

A charger plate, also known as a service plate, is a large, decorative base plate used in formal table settings. Charger plates are designed to be placed beneath the dinner plate, not for direct use during the meal. They serve as a setting base for the plates and contribute to the overall aesthetic of the table.

Typically, charger plates are larger than standard dinner plates, measuring anywhere from 12 to 14 inches in diameter. They come in various materials and styles, from glass, wood and wicker to metal and ceramic, allowing you to match them with your home decor or dining theme.

Charger plates are not meant to hold food directly, and they are typically removed before the main course is served. Their purpose is primarily decorative, though they also help protect your table from spills or stains.

>> Read more: Are Charger Plates Out of Style? 

Charger plate

Why Is It Called a Charger Plate?

The name "charger" has a fascinating history that goes beyond modern dinnerware trends. In historical terms, the word "charger" referred to a large plate or tray used for serving food, often used during medieval times. These trays were used for holding large portions of food, and their function was to "charge" the table with the meal.

Over time, the term evolved, and the charger plate became a decorative piece added to the table setting beneath the main plate. While it no longer serves the same functional purpose of holding food, it retains its name from its serving roots, signaling its elevated status on the dining table.

What Are Charger Plates Used For?

Charger plates have a range of functions that make them an essential piece of tableware in both formal and casual settings. Let’s break down their two primary uses: functional and aesthetic.

1. Protective Function

Charger plates protect your table and dinnerware by preventing spills or stains from damaging the surface. They also insulate hot plates, ensuring heat doesn’t transfer to the table. This function is especially useful for families or large gatherings, keeping your table pristine throughout the meal.

>> Read more: Can You Eat Off Charger Plates? 

2. Aesthetic Appeal

Charger plates enhance your table setting by adding sophistication and serving as a bold backdrop for your dinnerware. Whether for a holiday dinner or casual gathering, they bring elegance and a professionally styled look. When chosen to match your home's color scheme or theme, charger plates can also seamlessly integrate with your interior design.

>> Related: 20 Stunning Modern Boho Dining Room Ideas.

Chargers bring a warm, luxurious look to the dining table

How to Use Charger Plates Properly

To style your dining table with chargers, start by choosing a design that fits your overall theme and color scheme. The Dark Brown Rattan Wicker Charger Plate is an ideal choice for your dining table with a design that fits any decor style and is of superior quality. The standard dinner plate size is approximately 13 inches, making it ideal for dinner plates measuring 10 to 10.5 inches.

Don’t use chargers to hold food directly, but place each serving platter directly below the dinner plates, centered between the cutlery and about 2 inches from the edge of the table to ensure guests have enough space. Although primarily decorative, serving platters also protect your tablecloth from spills and crumbs during serving.

In addition to serving, serving platters can be used as decorative bases for centerpieces or as keepsake holders. For special occasions, some hosts even give personalized serving platters as souvenirs. Whether it’s a formal dinner or a casual gathering, serving platters are a simple way to elevate any table setting with minimal effort.

Using Chargers properly helps enhance the aesthetics of the dining table

What Are Charger Plates Made Of?

Charger plates come in a variety of materials, each offering a distinct look and feel to your table setting. Here are some common materials used to create charger plates:

1. Glass

Glass charger plates are a popular choice for formal dining settings. They are sleek and modern and can be found in clear, frosted, or colored glass options. Glass chargers add an elegant and polished look, perfect for showcasing a fine china set.

2. Metal

For a more contemporary and luxurious look, metal charger plates—often made from stainless steel or silver—are an excellent choice. They are perfect for more modern or upscale table settings, adding a hint of glamour and sophistication.

Meta charger and glass charger

3. Wood

Wooden charger plates bring a rustic, organic vibe to your table. They are ideal for boho or farmhouse-style settings. Wooden charger plates can be intricately carved or left with a natural finish, depending on your aesthetic preferences.

4. Ceramic or Porcelain

Ceramic charger plates offer a traditional touch to your table, with intricate patterns and textures. They come in a wide range of colors and designs, from classic white to vibrant hues, making them versatile for any occasion.

Wood charger and ceramic charger

5. Plastic

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, plastic charger plates are available in various colors and finishes. They can mimic the appearance of glass or metal and are durable enough for everyday use.

6. Natural Material

Wicker charger plates, made from natural materials like rattan, water hyacinth, or seagrass, are a top choice for eco-friendly, design-forward homes. Sustainable and textured, they pair well with boho, coastal, and farmhouse styles. Handcrafted by artisans, each piece is unique—lightweight, elegant, and perfect for casual dinners or outdoor gatherings. They look especially stunning with neutral linens, wooden tableware, and nature-inspired centerpieces.

>> Read more: Rattan vs Cane vs Wicker - What’s Best for Your Home Decor?

Plastic charger and natural material charges

How to Care and Maintain Chargers

Proper care helps extend the life and preserve the beauty of your charger plates. Each material requires specific handling to stay in great condition:

• Plastic Charger Plates: Wipe clean with a soft cloth and mild dish soap. Avoid abrasive scrubbers to prevent scratches. Never place them in the dishwasher or microwave, as heat can warp or damage the material.
• Acrylic Charger Plates: Simply use a damp cloth to remove dust or residue. Like plastic, acrylic is not dishwasher- or microwave-safe, so always clean by hand.
• Porcelain and Glass Chargers: Hand wash with warm water and gentle dish soap. Avoid using harsh sponges or detergents, and handle with care to prevent chips or cracks. These materials are delicate, so gentle motions during cleaning are best.

Regular cleaning and mindful storage will help maintain the look and durability of your charger plates, whether you're using them daily or saving them for special occasions.

>> Read more: How to Clean Woven Placemats Safely and Effectively

What to Use Instead of Charger Plates?

While charger plates add elegance to a table setting, they are not always necessary. Here are some alternatives to consider if you prefer something more casual or wish to create a different effect:

1. Placemats

Placemats serve a similar function to charger plates, protecting your table while adding texture and color to the setting. While placemats are typically smaller than plates, they can still create a cohesive and stylish foundation for your tableware. The Black Swirl Seagrass Woven Placemat Set brings a warm, natural texture to your table and makes a lasting impression with its unique pattern.

>> Read more: Do You Use Chargers With Placemats? 

 The Black Swirl Seagrass Woven Placemat Set

2. Layered Napkins

For a minimalist look, you can opt for a folded cloth napkin placed beneath your dinner plate. This adds a touch of color and texture while keeping the setting simple and elegant.

3. Table Runners or Cloths

If you're looking for a statement piece, a table runner or tablecloth can add sophistication without the need for charger plates. The added fabric texture will make your table feel warm and inviting, perfect for casual family meals or more relaxed gatherings.

4. Woven Trays

Woven trays made from materials like rattan or bamboo offer a rustic alternative to traditional charger plates. These trays can be used under plates as a decorative element or for organizing silverware and glassware.

Round Rattan Wicker Tray with Handles

Elevate Your Table with Artera Home’s Handwoven Decorative Accents

At Artera Home, we believe that your table setting should be both beautiful and meaningful. That’s why we offer handcrafted plates, woven placemats and trays made from natural, sustainable materials such as water hyacinth, seagrass and rattan. Each piece is woven by skilled Vietnamese artisans, preserving age-old techniques while adding a modern appeal.

Craftsman's handmade product production process

These wicker decorative accents not only add texture and warmth to your table, but also align with environmentally conscious values, making them the ideal choice for those who care about quality, design and the planet.

Whether you're aiming for a boho-chic breakfast, a rustic holiday dinner, or a nature-inspired wedding table, our rattan plates, woven placemats, and woven trays will add a sophisticated, handcrafted touch, transforming your everyday meals into memorable experiences.

Artera Home’s wicker decorative accents

Incorporating charger plates into your table setting can transform an ordinary meal into a memorable event. Whether you use them for their protective benefits, aesthetic appeal, or to enhance your home decor, charger plates are a versatile and stylish addition to your dining collection.

Explore Artera Home’s range of handcrafted charger plates and other home decor items to elevate your next meal with beauty and sophistication. Ready to make your table setting more elegant? Shop our collection today!