10Aug, 2025
Trademark Registration Process for Glassware and Utensil Brands in Class 21

In today’s competitive home products market, household utensils and glassware are more than just everyday tools — they’re lifestyle statements. Whether it’s a sleek set of wine glasses, eco-friendly cooking utensils, or elegant ceramic dinnerware, your brand identity plays a huge role in how customers perceive your products.

That’s why trademark registration under Class 21 is crucial. Without it, your unique brand name, logo, or tagline could be copied, misused, or even legally taken away from you.

This detailed guide will walk you through:

  • ✅ What Trademark Class 21 covers
  • ✅ Why it’s important for household utensils & glassware brands
  • ✅ Step-by-step trademark filing process
  • ✅ Common mistakes to avoid
  • ✅ Tips to protect your brand long-term

🥄 What Is Trademark Class 21?

Trademark Class 21 is one of the 45 trademark classes under the Nice Classification system. It specifically covers:

  • Household and kitchen utensils (non-electric)
  • Glassware, porcelain, and earthenware items
  • Containers for household use
  • Cleaning instruments and brushes (not motorized)
  • Tableware made of materials like glass, porcelain, ceramics, bamboo, and plastic

If your business manufactures, sells, or markets non-electric kitchen and household products, this is your class for trademark registration.

🏠 Examples of Products Covered in Class 21

Here’s a quick look at household utensils and glassware that fall under Class 21:

Household Utensils

  • Non-electric cooking utensils (spatulas, ladles, tongs)
  • Food storage containers
  • Tableware (plates, bowls, cups)
  • Salad servers, measuring spoons, and mixing bowls
  • Chopping boards (plastic, bamboo, wood)

Glassware

  • Drinking glasses and wine goblets
  • Decorative glass bowls
  • Glass jars and canisters
  • Pitchers and carafes
  • Glass tea pots

Others in Class 21

  • Ceramic mugs and cups
  • Earthenware dishes
  • Bamboo kitchenware
  • Cleaning brushes (handheld, non-electric)

If your product line includes any of the above, Class 21 registration is non-negotiable.

📌 Why You Need a Class 21 Trademark for Household Utensils & Glassware

  1. Brand Exclusivity – Prevent competitors from using a similar name or logo.
  2. Legal Protection – Take legal action against counterfeiters or brand misuse.
  3. E-commerce Safeguard – Essential for Amazon Brand Registry and other marketplaces.
  4. Consumer Trust – Registered brands are perceived as professional and authentic.
  5. International Expansion – Easier to register globally if you own the mark locally.

⚠️ Risks of Not Registering in Class 21

  • Brand Theft: Someone else could register your name and block your usage.
  • Copycat Products: Competitors can use your identity to sell similar goods.
  • Rebranding Costs: You may be forced to change your logo, packaging, and marketing.
  • Loss of Online Sales: You can’t report fake sellers without a registered mark.

🛠 Step-by-Step Trademark Filing Process for Class 21

Step 1: Conduct a Trademark Search

Before filing, ensure your brand name or logo is unique and available.

  • Use the IP India Public Search Tool
  • Check for exact matches and phonetic similarities
  • Example: If your brand is “Glassé Home,” also check “Glase Home” or “Glasssy Home”

💡 Pro Tip: Hire a trademark professional to avoid missing near matches.

Step 2: Identify the Correct Class & Goods

You must clearly state:

  • Class: 21
  • Goods: Specific items like “glass jars,” “porcelain mugs,” or “kitchen utensils made of bamboo.”

The more precise you are, the stronger your protection.

Step 3: Prepare the Trademark Application

You’ll need:

  • Applicant details (Individual/Company/Partnership)
  • Logo or Wordmark image (if applicable)
  • Description of goods
  • Proof of use (optional for new marks, but helps if already selling)

Step 4: File the Application

You can:

  • File online at the IP India Trademark E-filing portal
  • File offline at a trademark registry office

💰 Government fees:

  • ₹4,500 (individual/startup/small enterprise)
  • ₹9,000 (company/other entity)

Step 5: Examination by Trademark Office

The registrar examines:

  • Similarity with existing marks
  • Descriptiveness (generic terms are rejected)
  • Classification accuracy

If issues are found, you’ll get an Examination Report. You must reply within 30 days to avoid rejection.

Step 6: Publication in Trademark Journal

If accepted, your trademark is published for 4 months for public opposition.

  • If no one objects → move to registration.
  • If opposed → defend your case in a trademark hearing.

Step 7: Registration Certificate

Once approved, you receive a Class 21 Trademark Registration Certificate.

  • Valid for 10 years
  • Renewable indefinitely every 10 years

🧩 Common Mistakes in Class 21 Trademark Filing

  1. Using Generic Descriptions – “Kitchen items” is too broad; specify product type.
  2. Filing Under Wrong Class – A wrong class means no protection.
  3. Ignoring Logo Protection – File both wordmark and device mark for full coverage.
  4. Not Checking for Similar Marks – Even small spelling changes can block your application.
  5. Missing Deadlines – Delay in replying to objections can lead to abandonment.

📊 Example Trademark Descriptions for Class 21

Here are some strong, clear product descriptions you can use:

  • “Reusable glass water bottles”
  • “Porcelain tea cups and saucers”
  • “Bamboo kitchen spatulas and serving spoons”
  • “Glass jars for household storage”
  • “Non-electric cooking utensils made of stainless steel”

🌍 Related Trademark Classes to Consider

If your business expands, you may also need:

ClassCovers
3Cleaning products
35Retail store & online sales services
11Electric kitchen appliances
16Packaging & printed labels

💡 Tips to Strengthen Your Class 21 Trademark

  • Coin a Unique Brand Name – Avoid generic terms like “Glassware Co.”
  • File Early – Prevent others from grabbing your name.
  • Register Domain & Social Media Handles – Consistency builds trust.
  • Monitor Trademark Journals – Watch for similar brand filings.
  • Use ™ and ® Symbols – ™ while pending, ® after registration.

📖 Case Study: How Class 21 Saved a Homeware Brand

Brand: PureServe Glassware – Specializing in crystal wine glasses and eco-friendly storage jars.

Problem: A competitor started selling under “PureServ Glass” with similar packaging.

Solution: PureServe had a registered Class 21 trademark. They:

  • Sent a legal cease-and-desist letter
  • Got infringing Amazon listings removed
  • Maintained brand trust and avoided sales losses

🏁 Final Thoughts

If your business sells household utensils and glassware, Trademark Class 21 is your primary protection shield.
It’s not just about a legal formality — it’s about securing your brand’s identity, reputation, and market position.

By following the step-by-step filing process, you can:

  • Protect your brand from misuse
  • Build consumer trust
  • Expand confidently into new markets

📞 Need Help with Class 21 Trademark Filing?

At VMK Professionals, we:

  • Conduct deep trademark searches
  • File accurate applications
  • Handle objections & oppositions
  • Manage renewals for lifelong protection