Chrome vs. brushed nickel vs. stainless steel kitchen hardware

After you have chosen your cabinets, countertops, and color scheme, you can think about what type of hardware would go best in your kitchen remodel. But making the choice is hard. You can go back and forth between different options for ages. Today, we’ll compare three popular finishes: chrome, brushed nickel, and stainless steel.

Comparing chrome, brushed nickel, and stainless steel

You can compare the three finishes above: chrome (1), brushed nickel (2), and stainless steel (3). In terms of color, chrome is the brightest silver and it reflects its surroundings like a mirror. Brushed nickel is warmer in color, and stainless steel is in between the two. Stainless steel also usually has a brushed or satin finish.

Of these three metal finishes, stainless steel is the only type that can be solid all the way through. Nickel and chrome are always plated over another type of metal core, which can be made from zinc, copper, or brass. Stainless steel can also be plated over a metal core to make pieces more affordable.

Durability

Stainless steel is the most durable of these three finishes. If you have a solid stainless steel piece you can even polish or sand the surface to get rid of scratches and dents.

As long as you aren’t abusing your kitchen hardware, chrome and nickel finishes can also last for a long time. It’s a good idea to clean your nickel cabinet knobs and fixtures frequently. Over time, the color can tarnish from grease and stains.

Chrome also needs regular cleaning. Since it has a mirror-like polish, it does not hide scratches and dents. However, it can still look good for years if you take care of it. All three types of finishes resist rust, but the inner core of a plated piece of hardware is vulnerable if the metal plating wears down.

Satin Nickel vs. Brushed Nickel

If you’re settled on the color of nickel, you’ll also have to decide if you prefer brushed nickel vs. satin nickel. Brushed nickel looks like it has wire brush strokes on the surface. On the other hand, satin nickel is completely matte. You won’t notice a grain direction. Both of these finishes can work well in many applications. It’s really up to you to decide which is your favorite.

When to use chrome

Chrome has a polished mirror finish and it can almost look tinted blue and some lights. It works best in kitchens with white, gray, black, or cool colors. Chrome also has a retro look to it and can work well in a mid-century modern kitchen.

If you’re going to use chrome in your kitchen, make sure you purchase it from a reputable supplier. The chrome plating can fake off of cheaper kitchen fixtures over time.

When to use brushed nickel

Brushed nickel is one of the most popular kitchen hardware finishes. It works with traditional, modern, farmhouse, and transitional design. You can even get brushed nickel fixtures that have a vintage patina. Because of the slightly warm color, brushed nickel cabinet handles work well with different wood finishes and many colors of paint, even white.

When to use stainless steel

Stainless steel also works in a wide range of settings, but it might look a bit too modern if you’re going for a tradition of wood or farmhouse kitchen. Also, some people prefer not to match stainless steel hardware with stainless steel kitchen appliances.

Stainless steel is also the best option for an outdoor kitchen. If you’re going to use it outdoors, make sure the fixtures are made from solid stainless steel. It’s more durable and will last in the outdoor elements.

Don’t be afraid to mix metals

At the end of the day, there are no hard and fast rules about kitchen design. If you own your home, you can really do whatever you want. In terms of cabinet hardware, you can mix different metals as long as you have a plan of how they go together.

For example, you could have a stainless steel faucet and brushed nickel hardware. Or, If your cabinets are a shade of blue, you can contrast that with copper handles but use a chrome sink faucet.

Frequently asked questions

Is brushed nickel better than stainless steel?

Brushed nickel can work in a wider variety of kitchen designs, but solid stainless steel is more durable. Also, brushed nickel will hide fingerprints a little bit better because of its color.

Is stainless steel closer to brushed nickel or chrome?

Stainless steel is usually in between nickel and chrome in terms of color, but nickel can vary and almost look brown at times.

Is brushed nickel better than chrome?

A brushed nickel finish typically masks fingerprints better than a chrome finish. Also, brushed nickel hides scratches and dents better than chrome, and you can seal it with lacquer.

Is brushed nickel rustproof?

Brushed nickel hardware resists rust, but it’s not 100% rust proof forever. The plating will wear off at some point, and that depends on how often it’s handled and cleaned. Don’t worry, the hardware can still last for years without rust.