Choosing chrome versus
Brushed nickel will look nice longer. Chrome always eventually gets chipped and pitted and rusted, so for things that are handled a lot I'd go for the nickel.
Tarnishes Faster Than Chrome
One of the key differences between brushed nickel and polished chrome is that brushed nickel will tarnish faster.
Brushed nickel is dominating the 2024 kitchen faucet trends so far as it is stylish, sophisticated, and can easily conceal blemishes.
When paired with natural surfaces – on cabinets, tables, mirror frames, or accent furniture – chrome can bring a fresh look to a room without making it seem too modern or hard-edged. Best of all, given its longevity in design, chrome has already proven to be timeless, so it won't go out of style anytime soon.
When it comes to interior design trends for 2024, one material continues to shine brightly in the spotlight—chrome. This sleek, reflective finish has proven itself to be a timeless choice, particularly when it comes to bathroom lighting.
Because of its warmth, nickel is the more 'classic' finish of the two, typically used in traditional settings, while chrome is at home in contemporary environments. Nickel has been used in homes since the Victorian era, whereas Chrome has had its moment more recently, in modern kitchens and bathrooms.
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.
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.
Tapware used to be all about the shine, with most preferring chrome or stainless steel. But in 2024 and 2025 brushed stainless, nickel and brass will be more popular, adding a minimalist, understated edge to any bathroom or kitchen design.
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.
Polished Chrome: The Classic and Timeless Favorite
Polished chrome has been a staple in bathrooms for decades, thanks to its bright, reflective surface that adds a touch of elegance and cleanliness to any space. It's like the little black dress of bathroom fixtures: simple, timeless, and always appropriate.
Polished nickel is more expensive than chrome due to the manufacturing process, while chrome is generally considered more durable. Overall, polished nickel and chrome have unique characteristics that set them apart, such as appearance, durability, maintenance, cost, and applications.
Top tip – never, ever, EVER mix chrome and nickel. They are both silver tones, but with different undertones, and they will look awful together. Here we mixed polished nickel and brass. Both have warm undertones, making them a great match.
Due to its resistance to tarnish, nickel was the preferred finish from the 1880's up to the 1930's until chrome was introduced.
Keep in mind chrome is a delicate metal that's prone to scratches and discoloration. Using gentle cleaning practices and non-abrasive cleaners will prevent damage to chrome faucets and fixtures.
Both brushed nickel and chrome are considered timeless finishes. While trends may shift, these finishes have remained popular choices for their versatility and enduring appeal. Choosing either will ensure your space stays stylish for years to come.
Outdated Cabinetry
Granite countertops typically pair with natural wood cabinets, but pine or hickory cabinetry can date your kitchen's style back a few decades. Additionally, cabinetry with gold or brass fixtures shows that the kitchen hasn't had an update for a while.
For those who prefer a more subtle, understated look, brushed nickel and stainless steel finishes remain popular in 2025. These finishes are timeless, versatile, and easy to incorporate into almost any design style.
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.
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.
Chrome Is Truly Timeless
She describes chrome as a timeless finish, which should provide you with some reassurance if you're leaning towards using this metal in your kitchen or bathroom.
Chrome plating is commonly seen on a lot of automotive parts because of its attractive finish. It is also generally more expensive than nickel plating processes.
Typically, you should use warm metals (like brass, nickel and copper) with warm hues (like whites, beiges, browns and taupes) and cool metals (such as chrome and silver) with cool hues (such as blues, greens and grays).