If you are starting a brand for kitchenware, cookware, glassware, storage containers, brushes, or other household items, your products likely fall under Trademark Class 21.
Before you invest in packaging, marketing, or selling, it’s critical to make sure your brand name or logo is unique and not already registered by someone else.
That’s where a Trademark Search comes in.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
- ✅ What is Trademark Class 21?
- ✅ Why a trademark search is important
- ✅ Step-by-step process for searching Class 21 trademarks
- ✅ Understanding search results & avoiding conflicts
- ✅ Tips for choosing a unique name
- ✅ Common mistakes to avoid in trademark searches
Let’s get started.
📌 What is Trademark Class 21?
Under the Nice Classification system, Trademark Class 21 covers:
- Household or kitchen utensils and containers (non-electric)
- Cookware and tableware (pots, pans, plates, cups)
- Glassware, porcelain, and earthenware
- Brushes and combs
- Cleaning equipment (brooms, dustpans, scrubbing brushes)
- Reusable bottles and storage boxes
Examples of Class 21 products:
- Glass mugs, tumblers, and bowls
- Ceramic dinner plates
- Plastic kitchen storage jars
- Hair brushes and combs
- Non-electric kettles and teapots
- Dish racks and soap dispensers
If your brand name is for any of these products, you must file in Class 21.
🛡️ Why Do a Trademark Search Before Filing in Class 21?
Skipping a trademark search is like starting a race without checking the track — you might crash into a legal wall.
Here’s why a search matters:
1. Avoids Legal Trouble
If your chosen name is already registered, the owner can file an opposition or infringement lawsuit.
2. Saves Time & Money
Trademark filing fees are non-refundable. If your application is rejected due to similarity with an existing mark, you lose that money.
3. Helps You Pick a Strong Name
A search lets you choose a name that’s unique, memorable, and protectable.
4. Prevents E-commerce Delays
Platforms like Amazon and Flipkart require a registered trademark for Brand Registry. An objection can delay your listing approval.
⏳ When Should You Do the Search?
- Before finalizing your brand name
- Before printing packaging or labels
- Before filing the trademark application
- Even if you already use the name, check first to avoid infringement.
📝 Documents & Details You Need Before the Search
Before searching, keep ready:
- Your proposed brand name
- Any logo or design (if you want to file a device mark)
- The product description
- The relevant class number (in this case, Class 21)
📍 Step-by-Step Process to Do a Trademark Search for Class 21 in India
Step 1: Visit the Official Trademark Search Portal
Go to the IP India public search page:
👉 https://ipindiaonline.gov.in/tmrpublicsearch/frmmain.aspx
Step 2: Select the Search Type
You’ll see three search types:
- Wordmark – For brand names (e.g., “PureSip” for bottles)
- Vienna Code – For logo or image searches
- Phonetic – For names that sound similar
For checking a product name, select Wordmark.
Step 3: Enter Your Brand Name
- In the Wordmark field, type your proposed name.
- Use “Starts With” if you want to see marks starting with your name.
- Use “Contains” to see marks that have your name anywhere.
Step 4: Select the Class Number
- In the Class field, type 21.
- This ensures you only see results relevant to your product category.
Step 5: Click “Search”
- The system will display a list of existing trademarks similar to your name.
- Results show:
- Trademark (name/logo)
- Application number
- Class
- Status (Registered, Objected, Opposed, Abandoned, etc.)
- Proprietor’s name
- Journal number and date
📊 How to Read Trademark Search Results
Let’s say you search for “PureSip” in Class 21.
Possible outcomes:
1. No Results Found
✅ Good news — your name appears unique in Class 21.
⚠️ Still check for phonetic matches (e.g., “PureSip” vs. “PureSipz”).
2. Similar Marks Found
If you find a similar name (e.g., “PureSip Bottles” or “PureSipz”), it could lead to objection.
3. Exact Match Found
❌ Avoid using the name — even if the status is “Abandoned,” someone may re-file.
🎯 Tips for Choosing a Unique Class 21 Brand Name
- Be Inventive
Avoid generic words like “Bottle,” “Mug,” “Plate.” - Mix & Match
Combine unrelated words (e.g., “SipNest,” “PanAura”). - Avoid Descriptive Terms
Names like “Best Kitchenware” may not be accepted. - Check Across All Classes
Even if your main class is 21, conflicts in related classes (e.g., Class 11 for kitchen appliances) can cause objections.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid in Class 21 Trademark Search
- Only Checking One Class
Some goods overlap in multiple classes — always check related classes. - Ignoring Phonetic Matches
“CoolSip” and “KoolSip” sound alike — could cause rejection. - Assuming Abandoned Marks Are Free to Use
Sometimes abandoned marks still have common law rights. - Not Checking Logo Conflicts
Even if the name is free, a similar logo can lead to issues.
📌 Related Classes to Check Along with Class 21
| Class | Covers |
| Class 11 | Kitchen appliances (electric kettles, ovens) |
| Class 35 | Retail & online store services |
| Class 3 | Cleaning products (dishwashing liquids, soaps) |
💡 Example Scenario
Business: Selling reusable glass bottles online
Proposed Name: “EcoHydra”
Steps Taken:
- Searched “EcoHydra” in Class 21 → No results
- Checked phonetic matches → No conflicts
- Checked Class 35 (retail services) → One similar mark but unrelated to bottles
- Decided to proceed with filing in Class 21
Result: Trademark filed successfully with no objection.
📈 Benefits of Doing a Trademark Search in Class 21
| Benefit | Why It’s Important |
| Prevents rejection | Saves money on re-filing |
| Avoids legal disputes | Reduces risk of infringement |
| Helps in branding | Ensures exclusivity |
| Faster registration | No delays due to objections |
🚀 Pro Tips for a Smooth Class 21 Trademark Registration
- Always do both exact & phonetic searches
- Hire a trademark attorney for professional clearance
- Consider multi-class filing if your brand covers related goods
- Keep screenshots of your search results for records
🏁 Final Thoughts
A proper Trademark Search for Class 21 is the first step in building a legally protected brand for your kitchenware, cookware, or household product line.
By checking availability before filing, you:
- Avoid costly objections
- Choose a unique, memorable name
- Protect your business from competitors
Remember: A strong brand starts with a clear trademark search.
📞 Need Help with Class 21 Trademark Search?
At VMK Professionals, we:
- Conduct detailed trademark searches in all relevant classes
- Provide risk analysis & name suggestions
- Handle trademark filing & objections