How to Choose the Right Salt & Pepper Set for Your Dining Style

You probably don’t think much about your salt and pepper set, but you reach for it almost every day. The right one isn’t just about looks; it should be easy to use, simple to refill, and stylish enough to sit on your table without feeling out of place.

Consider Daily Convenience

If you’ll be using them every day, go for contemporary salt and pepper shakers that are easy to refill, fit comfortably in your hand, and don’t clog. Clear glass or acrylic options are practical because you can see when they need topping up.

Match to Your Table Setup

Think about how the set will look with your dinnerware. A decorative salt and pepper set in ceramic or porcelain works well with classic table settings, while sleek stainless steel or matte finishes pair better with modern styles. If your dining space leans eclectic, unique salt and pepper shakers in fun or artistic shapes can add personality.

Size and Capacity Matter

For everyday family use, medium-sized shakers are usually best. You won’t need to refill them constantly, but they also won’t overwhelm the table. If you host often, a larger designer salt and pepper set can save you from running back to the kitchen mid-meal.

Keep One Set for Everyday, One for Guests

It’s worth having at least two sets: one simple, sturdy pair for daily meals, and one high-end or decorative salt and pepper set that you bring out when entertaining. This way, you get both practicality and style without compromise.

Frequently Ask Questions

A quick way to tell is by the number of holes: the salt shaker usually has fewer and larger holes, while the pepper shaker has more salt particles that are larger than pepper and salt is denser. You can also feel for the different sounds of shaking either shaker. Salt makes a louder, sharper sound, and pepper makes almost no sound. However, the best option is to check or label them if you’re unsure.

A salt shaker usually has one or two holes, since salt flows more freely and doesn’t need as many openings. In contrast, pepper shakers often have three or more holes to make shaking easier. However, there's no standard number of holes for a salt shaker, as it varies by manufacturer and tradition.