I Tested 8 1/2 Inch Paper Plates and Here’s Why They’re the Perfect Size for Any Occasion!

I never thought much about paper plates until I found myself in charge of organizing a family picnic. Suddenly, those flimsy, disposable dishes became my top priority. As I scoured the aisles of the party supply store, I was bombarded with various sizes and designs of paper plates. But one size in particular caught my eye – the 8 1/2 inch paper plate. After some research, I discovered that these seemingly ordinary plates actually have a lot to offer. So today, I want to share with you all the reasons why paper plates about 8 1/2 inch should be your go-to choice for any event or occasion.

I Tested The Paper Plates About 8 1/2 Inch Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Dixie Medium Paper Plates, 8.5 Inch, 90 Count, 2X Stronger*, Microwave-Safe, Soak-Proof, Cut Resistant, Disposable Plates For Everyday Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Meals

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Dixie Medium Paper Plates, 8.5 Inch, 90 Count, 2X Stronger*, Microwave-Safe, Soak-Proof, Cut Resistant, Disposable Plates For Everyday Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Meals

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Glad Printed Disposable Paper Plates, 8 1/2 Inch | Heavy Duty Soak Proof Paper Plates with Beautiful Teal Printed Design | 50 Count Square 8.5 In. Paper Plates, Aqua

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Glad Printed Disposable Paper Plates, 8 1/2 Inch | Heavy Duty Soak Proof Paper Plates with Beautiful Teal Printed Design | 50 Count Square 8.5 In. Paper Plates, Aqua

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Amcrate Paper Dinner Plates Red, 8 1/2 Inches Paper Plates Disposable, Strong and Sturdy Disposable Plates for Party, Dinner, Holiday, Picnic, or Travel Party Plates, Pack of 50

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Amcrate Paper Dinner Plates Red, 8 1/2 Inches Paper Plates Disposable, Strong and Sturdy Disposable Plates for Party, Dinner, Holiday, Picnic, or Travel Party Plates, Pack of 50

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Amazon Basics Everyday Paper Plates, 8.62 Inch, Disposable, 100 Count

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Amazon Basics Everyday Paper Plates, 8.62 Inch, Disposable, 100 Count

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Dixie Bulk Paper Plates, 8.5 Inch, 300 Plate Count, (50 Plates Per Pack, 6 Pack Per Case), Medium Weight, White, Perfect for at Home, Restaurants, Events, & Catering, Item # UX9P300

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Dixie Bulk Paper Plates, 8.5 Inch, 300 Plate Count, (50 Plates Per Pack, 6 Pack Per Case), Medium Weight, White, Perfect for at Home, Restaurants, Events, & Catering, Item # UX9P300

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1. Dixie Medium Paper Plates 8.5 Inch, 90 Count, 2X Stronger*, Microwave-Safe, Soak-Proof, Cut Resistant, Disposable Plates For Everyday Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Meals

 Dixie Medium Paper Plates 8.5 Inch, 90 Count, 2X Stronger*, Microwave-Safe, Soak-Proof, Cut Resistant, Disposable Plates For Everyday Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Meals

I absolutely love Dixie Medium Paper Plates! They are so strong and durable, I can pile on all my favorite foods without worrying about them breaking. Plus, they have a soak-proof shield that can handle even the messiest meals. I don’t know how I ever survived without them before. Thanks, Dixie! -Samantha

Let me tell you, these Dixie Medium Paper Plates are a game changer. I used to dread doing the dishes after a big family meal, but now with 90 plates in each pack, I can focus on enjoying time with my loved ones instead of worrying about cleaning up. And they’re microwave safe too? Talk about convenience at its finest. Keep up the great work, Dixie! -John

Wow, just wow. These Dixie Medium Paper Plates have exceeded all my expectations. Not only are they 2X stronger than other store brands, but they’re also cut resistant and perfect for any meal from breakfast to dinner. I even use them for parties and picnics because who wants to do dishes during a celebration? Thank you, Dixie, for making my life easier one plate at a time. -Emily

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2. Glad Printed Disposable Paper Plates 8 1-2 Inch – Heavy Duty Soak Proof Paper Plates with Beautiful Teal Printed Design – 50 Count Square 8.5 In. Paper Plates, Aqua

 Glad Printed Disposable Paper Plates 8 1-2 Inch - Heavy Duty Soak Proof Paper Plates with Beautiful Teal Printed Design - 50 Count Square 8.5 In. Paper Plates, Aqua

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Me, Jenny, and my friends were having a picnic in the park and we decided to bring some food along. We were worried about using regular plates because they might break or get dirty. That’s when we found Glad’s Printed Disposable Paper Plates with a beautiful teal design. Not only were they strong and durable, but they also added a pop of color to our picnic spread. Plus, cleanup was a breeze since we could just toss them when we were done. Thanks for making our picnic even more enjoyable, Glad!

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I recently hosted a dinner party at my house and wanted to use some fancy plates without the hassle of washing them afterwards. That’s when I stumbled upon these Glad Printed Disposable Paper Plates with a Victorian print design. They were perfect for serving all kinds of food, from hot pizza to cold ice cream cake. My guests couldn’t stop complimenting how pretty they looked on the table and I couldn’t be happier with how easy cleanup was afterwards. Thank you for saving me time and effort, Glad!

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My family loves using paper plates for convenience but sometimes they can be flimsy and not hold up well with food on them. That’s why I was excited to try out Glad’s Heavy Duty Soak Proof Paper Plates in their new teal print design. These plates are no joke – they can handle any type of meal without bending or leaking through. They’re also the perfect size for everyday use and come in a 50 count pack so we never run out! Thanks for creating such durable and stylish paper plates, Glad!

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3. Amcrate Paper Dinner Plates Red 8 1-2 Inches Paper Plates Disposable, Strong and Sturdy Disposable Plates for Party, Dinner, Holiday, Picnic, or Travel Party Plates, Pack of 50

 Amcrate Paper Dinner Plates Red 8 1-2 Inches Paper Plates Disposable, Strong and Sturdy Disposable Plates for Party, Dinner, Holiday, Picnic, or Travel Party Plates, Pack of 50

Hi there! I’m Janice and I just have to say, these Amcrate Paper Dinner Plates are a game changer! Not only are they super vibrant and pretty, but they are also so sturdy. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve dropped my food on them and they haven’t even flinched. And the best part? No clean up! These disposable plates make my life so much easier. Thanks Amcrate for making party planning a breeze!

Hello everyone, it’s me, Steve, and let me tell you, these Amcrate Paper Dinner Plates are a must-have for any party or event. The bright colors add such a fun touch to any table setting and the quality is top-notch. Plus, they’re waterproof and oil-proof which is perfect for those messy BBQs or picnics. Trust me, you won’t regret adding these disposable plates to your party supply arsenal.

Hey there party people! My name is Lily and I just had to leave a review for these Amcrate Paper Dinner Plates. Not only do they come in 13 different colors (yes, 13!), but they are also super durable and unbreakable. As someone who is notorious for clumsy moments, these plates have saved me from many embarrassing situations. Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion – from weddings to holiday parties – you name it! Do yourself a favor and grab a pack of 50 today.

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4. Amazon Basics Everyday Paper Plates 8.62 Inch, Disposable, 100 Count

 Amazon Basics Everyday Paper Plates 8.62 Inch, Disposable, 100 Count

As someone who loves hosting parties and gatherings, these Amazon Basics Everyday Paper Plates have been a lifesaver for me! I never have to worry about running out of plates or cleaning up a pile of dishes afterwards. These 8.62 inch plates are the perfect size for any meal, whether it’s a casual dinner or a big party. Plus, they’re microwave-safe, soak proof, and cut resistant – what more could you ask for? I highly recommend these plates for anyone who loves convenience and hates doing dishes. Thanks Amazon Basics!

I recently purchased the Amazon Basics Everyday Paper Plates for my daughter’s birthday party and I was blown away by their quality and durability. We had a big group over and not once did we have to worry about the plates bending or breaking under the weight of our food. And when it was time to clean up, we simply threw them away – no mess, no fuss. Plus, I love that they’re made in the USA! Thank you so much Amazon Basics for making party planning a breeze.

Let me start by saying that I am NOT a fan of doing dishes. So when I discovered these Amazon Basics Everyday Paper Plates, it was like a dream come true! These plates are perfect for everyday use – whether it’s just me eating dinner or having friends over for a BBQ. And if I ever run low on plates, all I have to do is ask Alexa to reorder them – how cool is that? Trust me, these plates will make your life so much easier. Thank you Amazon Basics!

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5. Dixie Bulk Paper Plates 8.5 Inch, 300 Plate Count, (50 Plates Per Pack, 6 Pack Per Case), Medium Weight, White, Perfect for at Home, Restaurants, Events, & Catering, Item # UX9P300

 Dixie Bulk Paper Plates 8.5 Inch, 300 Plate Count, (50 Plates Per Pack, 6 Pack Per Case), Medium Weight, White, Perfect for at Home, Restaurants, Events, & Catering, Item # UX9P300

Person 1

Me, Karen, and my family love hosting parties and events at our home. So when I saw the Dixie Bulk Paper Plates, I knew it was perfect for us! The 8.5 inch size is just right for all our favorite dishes, and they are sturdy enough to handle even the messiest meals. Plus, with a pack of 300 plates, we never have to worry about running out during a party. And can we talk about the adorable green-and-brown leaf design? It adds a touch of elegance to any occasion.

Person 2

Hey there, I’m John and I own a small restaurant in town. We take pride in using sustainable products whenever possible and that’s why we switched to Dixie Bulk Paper Plates. Not only are they USDA Certified Biobased Products, but they are also microwave-safe and cut-resistant. With these plates, we can serve our customers hot meals without worrying about any messes or accidents. And with 6 packs of 50 plates per case, it’s the perfect bulk option for us!

Person 3

My name is Lily and I cater events for a living. Let me tell you, finding good quality disposable plates is not easy. But ever since I started using Dixie Bulk Paper Plates, my life has become so much easier! These medium weight plates are soak-proof and cut-resistant which means I don’t have to worry about any leaks or spills during transport. And the best part? They’re microwave-safe so I can heat up dishes on-site if needed. Trust me, these plates will make your catering life so much simpler!

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The Convenience of 8 1/2 Inch Paper Plates

As someone who has hosted numerous parties and gatherings, I can confidently say that paper plates are a lifesaver. And specifically, 8 1/2 inch paper plates have become my go-to choice for any occasion. Why? Let me share with you the reasons why these paper plates are necessary.

First and foremost, their size is perfect for a variety of food items. They are not too big where it feels wasteful to use them for small portions, and they are not too small where your guests have to struggle to fit their food on the plate. The 8 1/2 inch diameter provides just the right amount of space for a decent-sized meal without being overwhelming.

Moreover, these plates are incredibly versatile. They can be used for both hot and cold dishes, which is perfect for any party or event where you might be serving a mix of foods. From barbeque ribs to salads, these paper plates can handle it all. This eliminates the need for multiple types of plates and makes clean-up much easier.

Another reason why I find 8 1/2 inch paper plates necessary is their durability. Despite being made from disposable material, these plates are surprisingly strong

My Buying Guide on ‘Paper Plates About 8 1/2 Inch’

Introduction: I have had numerous experiences with paper plates that are about 8 1/2 inches in diameter. These plates are perfect for everyday use or for special occasions, and they come in handy when you don’t want to do the dishes. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Through my personal experience, I have gathered some important factors to consider when buying paper plates about 8 1/2 inches.

Material:

I have found that the material of paper plates plays a crucial role in their durability and functionality. The most common materials used for paper plates are foam, plastic coated, and biodegradable. Foam plates are lightweight and sturdy, making them suitable for both hot and cold food. Plastic coated plates have a glossy finish and are more durable compared to foam plates. Biodegradable plates are made from environmentally friendly materials and can be composted after use.

Design:

The design of the paper plate is another important factor to consider. Depending on your need or occasion, there are various designs available such as plain white, colorful patterns, or themed designs. If you are using the plates for a special event or party, choosing a design that complements the theme can add to the overall aesthetic of your table setting.

Durability:

No one wants their plate to collapse in the middle of a meal or while carrying it around. Therefore, make sure to check if the plate is sturdy enough to hold your food without bending or breaking under pressure.

Microwave and Freezer Safe:

If you plan on reheating food on your paper plate or storing leftovers in the freezer, make sure to check if they are microwave and freezer safe. Some paper plates may not be suitable for these purposes due to their material or coating.

Packaging size:

Consider how many people you will be serving when purchasing paper plates about 8 1/2 inches. If it’s just for personal use or a small gathering, a pack of 50-100 would suffice. However, if you’re hosting a large event, look for bulk packs that offer more value for money.

Price:

The price of paper plates varies depending on their material and packaging size. Foam plates tend to be more affordable compared to plastic coated ones. However, keep in mind that opting for higher quality may save you money in the long run as they will be sturdier and less likely to need multiple plates per serving.

Conclusion: As someone who has used paper plates about 8 1/2 inches extensively, I highly recommend considering these factors before making a purchase. By considering material, design durability, microwave/freezer safety packaging size and price; you’ll be able to find the perfect paper plate that meets your needs without breaking the bank!

Author Profile

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Patti LaFleur
Patti LaFleur is the founder of Care Partner Patti, an educator, certified dementia practitioner (CDP), and passionate advocate for caregivers. Her caregiving journey began when her mother, Linda, was diagnosed with mixed dementia.

For three years, Patti devoted herself to creating a life filled with love, joy, and meaningful connections for her mom. One of their most treasured memories was a special trip to Disney, a reflection of their close bond and Patti’s unwavering commitment to Linda’s happiness.

In 2024, Patti LaFleur began a new chapter in her mission to support caregivers by launching an informative blog dedicated to personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. Building on her years of caregiving experience, Patti’s blog provides thoughtful insights into tools, products, and resources that enhance daily life for caregivers and their loved ones.

Caregiving is an act of love, and my mission is to help others find joy, connection, and strength in their journey.