In the 19th century, the table had to be properly set and everything, including the toast rack, had its own position. These items appeared at a time when there was an emerging middle class who used food and dining etiquette as a way of differentiating themselves. The porcelain toast rack was thus not merely an item of kitchen ware, but a sign of the family’s concern with the right way of doing things in the dining area.

Currently, porcelain toast racks are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts due to their historical significance and aesthetic value. These pieces are commonly bought from antique stores and are kept as collectibles and for their nostalgic value as symbols of the past. These racks can be quite delicate because of their age and because they are made from porcelain, and collectors are very careful when handling them.