If you’re upgrading your bathroom, you’ll know that when it comes to tapware finishes there are an overwhelming number of choices. It can be extra tricky to find the right ones as not only do they add to the aesthetic, but they also impact maintenance, durability, and the overall vibe of your space. With so many finishes available, including black, chrome, polished, and brushed, you may be at a loss with where to start.
But don’t worry! Our guide breaks down the pros and cons of different tapware finishes so you can make an informed decision that suits both your style, budget and lifestyle.
Polished chrome
Let’s start with the classic: polished chrome. It’s been a staple in homes for decades and continues to be a popular choice for good reason.
Pros:
Affordable: Polished chrome is often more economical compared to other finishes, making it a sensible choice for managing costs. However, it’s important to note that while polished chrome is typically more affordable, when you buy from us it is still a high-quality finish as we do not offer low-quality products.
Timeless appeal: Chrome has a sleek, reflective shine that can instantly give your space a modern, clean look. Its classic appeal also means it won’t look dated as trends come and go.
Easy to match: One of the biggest advantages of chrome is that it’s relatively uniform across manufacturers. You’re less likely to encounter varying shades of chrome, so it’s easier to ensure your taps, showerheads, flushes, and other fixtures all match seamlessly, even if you buy them from different brands.
Low maintenance: Chrome is easy to clean and resistant to corrosion. Usually, a quick wipe with a soft cloth and your cleaning product of choice and it’s as good as new.
Cons:
Visible watermarks: Polished chrome’s reflective surface shows water spots and fingerprints more easily than other finishes. You might find yourself wiping down your taps more often to maintain their shiny look.
Can feel cold: Some people find chrome to be a bit too sterile looking, particularly in bathrooms where you may want a warmer, more inviting ambiance. Although this falls very much under the umbrella of personal preference so may not be a con for some people!
Brushed nickel
Brushed nickel has been gaining popularity as a more understated and versatile option. It features a matte, textured look that doesn’t scream for attention but can be the perfect finishing touch to a bathroom.
Pros:
Hides watermarks and fingerprints: The matte finish of brushed nickel is perfect if you don’t want to constantly be wiping down your tapware, as it doesn’t show water spots or fingerprints as easily as polished finishes.
Versatile style: Its subtle sheen and neutral tone mean it works well with both contemporary and traditional décor. Whether you’re going for a minimalist modern look or a cosy farmhouse vibe, brushed nickel can fit right in.
Durability: Brushed finishes tend to be more scratch-resistant, making them a fabulous choice for high-traffic areas like busy family bathrooms.
Cons:
More expensive: Brushed nickel typically comes at a higher price point than chrome, so if you’re on a tighter budget, this may not be the best option for you.
Hard to match: Unlike chrome, brushed nickel can vary greatly in tone and texture between manufacturers. This can make it difficult to ensure consistency across all your fixtures, especially if you’re buying taps, showers, and accessories from different brands.
Matte black
Matte black tapware has absolutely exploded in popularity in recent years, offering a bold, modern look that can completely transform a bathroom or kitchen. But like any trend, it comes with its own set of challenges.
Pros:
Striking and stylish: If you’re looking to make a design statement, black tapware is definitely the way to go. It creates a stark contrast, especially in white or lighter-coloured bathrooms, and adds plenty of drama and sophistication to your space.
Hides fingerprints: While not completely immune to watermarks, matte black is much better than polished chrome when it comes to concealing fingerprints.
Versatile: Although it’s bold, black works surprisingly well across a range of styles. From industrial-chic to modern-minimalist, it’s a great addition to lots of different décor preferences.
Cons:
Limescale and soap scum: Here’s where things get a bit trickier, particularly if you’re someone who dreads cleaning. Darker colours, especially black, can highlight limescale and soap scum build-up, which can be a headache if you live in an area with hard water. Regular cleaning will be necessary to keep your black taps looking daisy fresh.
Limited matching options: If you’re buying fittings from different manufacturers, getting all your black fixtures to match in terms of shade and finish can be a challenge. Unlike chrome, black tapware can vary, and you might end up with different hues of black across your bathroom or kitchen, which can disrupt the cohesive look you’re going for.
Price: Matte black tends to be more expensive than standard finishes like chrome, especially as it’s seen as a more luxurious or high-end option.
Brushed brass or gold
Brushed brass and gold finishes are making a comeback, adding a bit of old-world glamour to modern homes.
Pros:
Luxurious look: Gold or brass finishes instantly bring in warmth and luxury. They can create a vintage feel or an air of modern opulence, depending on how they’re styled.
Warm tones: Unlike chrome, which can feel cold, brass has warm undertones that create a cosy and inviting feel in a space – perfect for unwinding in the bath after a long day.
Hides fingerprints: Similar to brushed nickel, brass finishes do a much better job of hiding fingerprints and watermarks, making them easier to maintain.
Cons:
Cost: Brushed brass tends to be on the more expensive side, often viewed as a premium finish. If you’re outfitting an entire bathroom the costs can add up quickly.
Trendy: While brass is back in style, it does have a more distinct look that may not age as well as a classic chrome or brushed nickel. If you’re not committed to this style for the long haul, it might not be the best long-term choice.
Prone to patina: Depending on the finish and manufacturer, some brass finishes may tarnish over time, developing a patina. While some people love this “aged” look, others prefer their fixtures to stay bright and shiny.
Things to consider before you choose
Beyond just the look of your tapware, here are a few extra things you should be keeping in mind to help you make the right choice for you and your home:
Maintenance
Think about how often you’re willing to clean and maintain your taps. Finishes like chrome will need more regular cleaning so may not be for you if the thought of donning your Marigolds makes you want to weep, while brushed finishes are a little more forgiving so may be more suitable.
Matching accessories
If you’re purchasing different fittings from multiple manufacturers (for example, your taps from one and your shower from another), it can be hard to ensure they’ll match perfectly, especially for less common finishes like black or brushed brass. If possible, try to see fittings in person so you can compare and make sure everything matches if that’s something that’s important to you – some prefer the mismatched look!
The overall look
What’s your bathroom colour palette as a whole? What kind of vibe are you going for? Chrome can feel modern and sleek, brass is warm and luxurious, while black is bold and dramatic. Make sure the finish aligns with the overall design vision for your space otherwise it can look a bit disjointed, and you may be disappointed with the finished look.
Need some extra help finding the right fixtures for your bathroom? Talk to our friendly team today, we’d love to help!