This material tends to look dull over time because of mineral deposits, soap scum accumulation, and hard water stains. Despite these bathroom and kitchen faucets and fixtures being quick to collect blemishes, they are not necessarily hard to clean. It's important to steer clear of abrasive cleaning pads and products.
Tarnishes Faster Than Chrome
One of the key differences between brushed nickel and polished chrome is that brushed nickel will tarnish faster.
When it comes to cleaning products, harsh chemicals are not friends with brushed nickel. Bleach and ammonia-based cleaners can strip away the finish, leaving your tapware looking dull and lifeless.
Chrome is tough and scratch-resistant to protect the surface of the faucet, and is the most economical. Nickel – Brushed nickel is warmer and softer than chrome and hides water spots and fingerprints better, so it's easier to clean.
Brushed Nickel: Key Differences. Chrome and brushed nickel may look similar at a glance, and they do share some characteristics, but these two finishes are different. Both options are easy to clean, durable against scratches and heavy use, and easy to find when purchasing one.
Brushed nickel is comparatively simpler to clean and maintain, while chrome requires more careful cleaning to avert damage and sustain its shine. To clean brushed nickel fixtures, a soft cloth and a solution of white vinegar and water or other mild cleaner can be used to remove tarnish.
For those who prefer subtle sophistication, brushed nickel is a classic that never goes out of style. Its soft, muted sheen adds a touch of elegance without feeling flashy, making it a beloved choice for transitional and traditional spaces alike, the perfect match to our Veranda and Valencia door styles.
Best Faucet Brands According to Plumbers
You want something that is durable, attractive, and a great value for the money. The best brands according to plumbers are Moen, Delta, and Kohler. Plumbers prefer these brands due to their quality, their reliability, and their availability.
Black faucets are the current leading finish with nickel and pewter close behind. Matte and brushed finishes are also popular as they can show fewer water marks and can be easier to clean.
Polished Chrome: The Classic and Timeless Favorite
It's like the little black dress of bathroom fixtures: simple, timeless, and always appropriate. Chrome faucets are perfect for those who love a sleek, contemporary look. They are versatile, matching just about any color scheme or style, from traditional to modern.
Be sure to avoid using acid, alcohol, or solvent-based cleaners. These types of cleaners can ruin or discolor the more delicate surface of the brushed nickel finish. Vinegar is a popular faucet cleaning solution, but should be avoided on brushed nickel.
It's important to steer clear of abrasive cleaning pads and products. Those that contain bleach or alcohol- or ammonia-based glass cleaners may leave behind dark marks and ultimately ruin the finish. Similarly, a white vinegar solution may do the trick for light dust but is no match for soils like oily hand residue.
According to Logan, you should not use Clorox wipes on brushed nickel. 'You should not use products that contain alcohol or ammonia to clean brushed nickel faucets,' says Logan. 'If you do, you may affect the finish and shine of the nickel.
Brushed nickel finishes, which are rubbed with an abrasive while still at the factory to create their special look, are especially susceptible to damage from bathroom and kitchen cleaners that contain low-concentration phosphoric acid. If not rinsed promptly, these can damage or even remove a brushed nickel finish.
In 2024, antique brass with a matte sheen will be popular, pairing well with modern and traditional interiors. Brushed Nickel: Known for its subtle shine, brushed nickel adds a neutral yet contemporary look. It's versatile, making it a favorite for bathrooms and kitchens.
However, while brushed nickel might have a slight leg-up in terms of durability, satin nickel evens the playing field with a slight edge in the maintenance category. Both metals are pretty low-maintenance and excel at hiding fingerprints, but smoother finishes are typically easier to clean.
A neutral color palette is the cornerstone of timeless design. Shades of white, beige, gray, and soft blues create a tranquil and elegant atmosphere that stands the test of time.
Gold Finishes
Industry pros are projecting that gold fixtures and hardware are going to become the top choice throughout the home in 2024. Whether you go for satin or brushed brass finishes, gold brings an inviting warmth to a space that homeowners are loving.
Chrome has a shiny and reflective surface, while Brushed Nickel has a muted and brushed texture. Although both finishes have their own characteristics. Brushed Nickel may show scratches …
Short answer: Both Kohler and Moen are reputable plumbing brands known for their quality, durability, and innovation. The choice depends on personal preferences and specific needs.
With a Net Trust Quotient Score of 117.3, Moen ranked first, followed by other trusted brands such as Kohler, Delta, American Standard, and Pfister.
Moen, Delta, and Kohler are all reputable brands with impressive reputations for quality and durability in the plumbing industry. Moen is renowned for its durable, metal-constructed products that promise long lifespans.
While Muted Nickel nickel is durable and resistant to scratches, it has a slightly textured surface due to the brushing process. This texture can make it slightly more challenging to clean compared to chrome, as dust and grime may settle in the grooves of the finish.
Mixed Metals. One of the standout trends for 2024 is the use of mixed metals. Combining different finishes like bronze, stainless steel, and black hardware can create a dynamic and visually interesting kitchen.