I’ve used Gorham Melonbud 18/10 flatware for the last 26 years. It has left TONS of gray marks on our 1) expensive Mikasa stoneware, 2) Target Threshold porcelain, and now 3) Mikasa bone china. The only surface this 18/10 flatware hasn’t destroyed is a newer set of 4 Target Threshold porcelain salad plates that I bought to replace some of the original set that broke. Got others in that style thinking I’d found the perfect match … nope, only those 4 can defend against the Melonbud. I’m giving up. It must be the flatware but that goes against everything out there that says 18/10 is the “hardest” and shouldn’t leave marks. Might switch to plastic, lol. ;0)

On the one hand, I agree that Fiestaware is great in the microwave. On the other hand, I have just a few pieces, and they take up a huge amount of room in the DW because they are thick, so I don't think I'd get an entire set. I had a bad experience with Corelle, and because of that, will not buy it, though I know people love it. I dropped a Corelle dish, and it shattered into a million razor-sharp shards. Could have easily taken out an eye. This issue with Corelle has been discussed on Houzz Forums before if you want to do a search. Ikea 365+ is very nice white dinnerware that is microwave safe, is incredibly low-priced for the quality--it's feldspar porcelain--and is flat enough to fit between the DW tines easily. While stoneware (which Ikea also sells) looks nice, in my experience it chips easily, while porcelain is more durable. I also personally like dinnerware with rims because it keeps contents like sauces and juices from sloshing out, especially if you are lifting it out of a microwave. Ikea makes other more colorful microwave-safe dinnerware too. You can mix and match, and it's all so inexpensive, that if you break one, it's just a shrug. Ikea 365+ Dinnerware Ikea Diinnerware

Lindsay K, How did you resolve your issue with the dishwasher. I just had a Bosch DW installed yesterday and was shocked at the noxious smell/fumes coming from it while running and when the door is opened after a cycle. I have only run it 3 times so far with soap and no dishes. I started researching and can't believe what I'm learning about bitumen and stainless steel tubs! Would be interested in what you have done about your dilemma since your post.

Everyone- thank you so so much! The recommendations make so much sense and are so incredibly helpful. I’ll definitely move the prints over and down and swap out the pillows for larger, more plush ones that pull colors from the prints. And oh my goodness, good call on the glare!! I took the glass out of one of the frames just to see and it’s a night and day difference. I never would have even thought of it. Now searching for anti reflective acrylic so my five year old doesn’t destroy the prints. The Houzz community comes through again! Thank you thank you everyone! Adding a pic just to show the difference with and without the glarey glass.