“Most people prefer chrome or stainless steel faucets because they're easy to clean and maintain,” Thomas says. “But if you want something different, bronze, brass, gold, black, or even white are also popular options.”
Solid-brass bodies last longest and require the least care, especially with hard water, which corrodes lesser metals. At $150 or so to start, these faucets also cost the most. If you aren't sure whether a fitting is solid brass, pick it up.
If you prefer smooth or shiny, you might pick a chrome finish. If you're looking for texture, an oil-rubbed product might work. If water spots drive you crazy, matte finishes can solve the problem.
The soft metallic look of brushed nickel has stood the test of time. Advantages: This is one of the most durable finishes; it has a tendency to keep its finish longer than oil-rubbed bronze and chrome.
Matte finishes or all-black fixtures, on the other hand, are much easier to keep clean and don't leave fingerprints as readily. Consider black or matte bathroom faucets, vanity handles, panels, shower heads, and more.
Brushed nickel provides a more durable finish.
Most wear comes from incorrect cleaning over time.
While brushed nickel may not be one of the top finishes for 2023, it is certainly a safe option that will not require updating any time soon. Get more home decor tips here.
TIMELESS KITCHEN FINISHES
When it comes to faucet finishes, look to Arctic® Stainless or Polished Nickel.
Satin nickel is one of the most popular faucet finishes that can be seen in nearly every bathroom style.
Does this mean brushed nickel and oil rubbed bronze are out of style? Nope. And in even better news, there's no need to replace all the metals in your kitchen all at once anymore. Because mixed metals in the kitchen create a curated look in the kitchen that is so 2023.
Monochrome finishes
And these continue to increase in popularity. A more contemporary choice than chrome, opting for black brassware creates a striking accent in any kitchen design.” A black faucet will instantly modernize your kitchen.
Stainless steel faucets may have a polished, brushed or matte finish. Like chrome faucets, they are durable, easy-to-clean and resist oxidation. Nickel faucets may have a brushed or satin look and are stylish, durable and easy to clean. Look for units with a titanium finish to better resist scratching and tarnish.
Brass faucets do not easily crack or disintegrate. It's one of the most corrosion-resistant materials out there. This is particularly important if you have hard water, which corrodes a faucet even more quickly than other materials.
The great news is, Matte Black bathroom fixtures are easy to keep clean, and with a few simple “dos and don'ts”, it will keep its beautiful matte finish for the life of the product. The best cleaner for your Matte Black fixture is warm, soapy water or pH balanced soap-based cleanser, applied with a soft, damp cloth.
The main disadvantage of brushed nickel is that it is difficult to match to other fixtures. Because the process of making brushed nickel involves etching it with a wire brush, you may not be able to find the exact same finish in all of your finishing touches for your bathroom.
Gold and Brass
Gold is getting an added boost thanks to this year's trend of black and gold, which is especially popular in this year's resurgence of Art Deco. The warm look of gold and brass creates an inviting atmosphere that is also timeless and luxurious.
Satin nickel has a softer, matte, lustrous appearance, while brushed nickel has a slightly textured finish. If you're going for a more modern, understated look, satin nickel might be the way to go. But brushed nickel could be a perfect choice if you want a rustic, industrial feel.
Brushed nickel is easier to clean than chrome because it hides fingerprints and smudges. Chrome lets everything show. Use vinegar to clean both if soap and water aren't sufficient.
Choosing chrome versus brushed nickel for the look alone is entirely up to personal preference. If you're going for a shiny, super-clean look, chrome is the clear winner. If you don't want that super shine, you may prefer brushed nickel, which is a softer-looking metal that complements stainless steel appliances.
Brushed nickel gets its slightly matte appearance from being treated with a wire brush. We're seeing more and more clients navigate towards a brushed nickel finish, and for good reason. This finish has a luxurious, almost hand-crafted aesthetic that hides water spots and fingerprints well.