Choosing the right bathroom faucet finish can make all the difference in your space. The finish sets the tone for your bathroom’s style and influences the overall look and feel. With so many options to choose from these days, it can get overwhelming. Here is a quick crash course on the most popular bathroom faucet finishes to help you select the right one.
Introduction
When shopping for a new bathroom faucet, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is the finish. The finish refers to the outer coating or plating on the faucet. It affects the faucet’s appearance, durability, maintenance requirements, and pricing.
The good news is bath faucets today come in a wide array of finishes. From classic chrome to vintage bronze, the choices cater to both traditional and contemporary design aesthetics. Factors like your bathroom’s color scheme, cabinetry, hardware, and decor play a role in choosing a finish that creates a cohesive look.
Below is an overview of the most common faucet finishes seen in today’s bathrooms:
Chrome
Chrome is by far the most popular faucet finish. It’s affordable, easy to clean, and matches any decor. The shiny silver coloring has a clean, modern look. Chrome is a versatile choice that complements both traditional and contemporary bathroom styles.
Pros:
- Most affordable finish
- Easy to maintain
- Matches any decor
- Shiny and modern
Cons:
- Shows water spots
- Less durable than some finishes
Best for: Contemporary, modern, traditional, or eclectic bathrooms
Brushed Nickel
Brushed nickel offers a soft, understated look. The brushed texture hides fingerprints and water spots better than chrome. It works with a variety of design aesthetics from traditional to industrial. Durability is better than chrome but not as good as oil-rubbed bronze.
Pros:
- Softer look than chrome
- Hides fingerprints/water spots
- Durable yet affordable
- Matches various aesthetics
Cons:
- Not as durable as bronze
Best for: Transitional or contemporary bathrooms
Matte Black
Matte black faucets make a bold statement in any bathroom. The rich, dark color paired with a non-reflective matte finish creates a dramatic high-end look. Matte black works best in a contemporary setting with other black accents and finishes. It shows marks easily and requires more frequent cleaning.
Pros:
- High-end, sophisticated look
- Statement-making color
- Matches well with black accents
Cons:
- Shows water spots/smudges
- Needs frequent cleaning
- A contemporary finish
Best for: Contemporary or modern bathrooms
Oil-Rubbed Bronze
Oil-rubbed bronze offers a handsome aged or antiqued look. Bronze is durable and scratch-resistant, though the dark color shows rings and fingerprints easily. This finish works in traditional, Tuscan, or farmhouse decors.
Pros:
- Attractive aged, antique look
- Most durable and scratch-resistant
- Pairs well with traditional decor
Cons:
- Requires more maintenance
- Only suits certain aesthetics
Best for: Traditional, Tuscan, or farmhouse bathrooms
Gold/Rose Gold
Gold and rose gold faucets add a touch of glamour. The warm metallic finish provides a luxe look, though the reflective surface requires frequent cleaning. Gold and rose gold coordinate beautifully with white marble or quartz countertops. Save this finish for a glitzy contemporary or transitional setting.
Pros:
- Luxe, glamorous look
- Makes a statement
- Pairs well with white marble
Cons:
- Needs frequent cleaning
- Too bold for some spaces
Best for: Glamorous contemporary or transitional bathrooms
Vintage Finishes
Vintage style finishes like antique brass, copper, nickel, and bronze have an old-world appeal. The worn, weathered look pairs nicely with traditional bathrooms. Vintage finishes match vintage plumbing fixtures and clawfoot tubs. The mottled colors patina more over time for added character.
Pros:
- Aged, weathered appearance
- Distressed, vintage look
- Develops patina over time
Cons:
- Limited aesthetic appeal
- Not as easy to clean
Best for: Traditional, vintage, or rustic bathrooms
Factors to Consider
Keep the following factors in mind when selecting a faucet finish for your bathroom:
- Design style – Make sure the finish fits your bathroom’s overall aesthetic.
- Usage – Higher traffic bathrooms may benefit from a more durable finish that hides water spots and fingerprints.
- Maintenance – How often are you willing to clean and polish your faucet? Some finishes require more care.
- Fixtures/hardware – Coordinate the finish with other finishes and metals in your bathroom for a cohesive look.
- Color scheme – Choose a finish that complements your bathroom’s color palette.
Conclusion
The range of bathroom faucet finishes available today makes it easy to find just the right look for your space. Keep in mind your bathroom’s overall style, color scheme, maintenance preferences, and cohesion with other finishes and hardware. From classic chrome to glamorous gold to vintage bronze, the options cater to both traditional and contemporary aesthetics. Choose thoughtfully, and your faucet’s finish will enhance your bathroom’s design for years to come.
FAQs About A Crash Course in Bathroom Faucet Finishes
What are the most popular faucet finishes?
The most popular faucet finishes today are chrome, brushed nickel, matte black, oil-rubbed bronze, and polished nickel. Chrome is the most widely used finish.
What finish is most durable?
Oil-rubbed bronze is the most durable and scratch-resistant faucet finish. The thick layer of bronze develops a tough patina over time. Other durable finishes include brushed nickel and chrome.
What finish is easiest to clean?
Chrome and polished nickel are the easiest faucet finishes to clean. Their smooth, shiny surfaces simply need a quick wipe down with a soft cloth and mild cleaner to keep them looking new.
What factors should I consider when choosing a finish?
Consider your bathroom’s overall design aesthetic, color scheme, need for durability, and maintenance preferences. The finish should coordinate with other finishes and hardware in the space.
Can I change my faucet finish?
It is possible to re-finish or re-plate an existing faucet, but it can be costly. Easier options include using a faucet cover or adding new handles. Replacing the faucet entirely is the best bet for drastically changing the look.
Do certain finishes cost more?
As a rule, chrome and brushed nickel are the most affordable finishes. Vintage, bronze, gold, and black finishes tend to be pricier. However, style, brand, and features also impact cost.
