logo
logo
Sign in

The Pros And Cons Of Black Stainless Steel

avatar
George Washington Toma
The Pros And Cons Of Black Stainless Steel

What’s black and cool and red hot all over—in appliance showrooms and up-to-the-minute kitchens and laundry rooms? It’s black stainless steel, the modernistic finish gaining popularity for refrigerators, washers and dryers, stoves, and dishwashers, currently available from such manufacturers. While black stainless steel appliances aren't yet close to toppling traditional stainless steel from the top of the major appliance scene, it’s definitely on the upswing, and not just for its sleek good looks. But before ditching their old-school white or familiar stainless steel in favour of this up-and-comer, you’re wise to consider the pros and cons of the new black finish. Read on for all you need to know to make an informed decision.

PRO: Black stainless steel is resistant to fingerprints and smudges.

One of the biggest drawbacks to traditional stainless steel is how smudges and fingerprints seem to multiply across its metallic surface, meaning extra work for you to keep it looking flawlessly clean. Black stainless steel, however, is much more resistant to smudges, fingerprints, streaks, and water spots. And when they finish does need a touch-up, it’s easily accomplished with a damp cloth and a bit of gentle liquid dishwashing soap or a homemade stainless steel cleaner featuring diluted vinegar—no need for special cleaners or wipes.

PRO: Black stainless steel complements today’s popular colour schemes.

Just as basic black works well with virtually every colour in their wardrobe, black stainless steel complements many design concepts and colour schemes—largely because it “feels” a bit warmer than traditional stainless steel. Black stainless steel appliances are beautiful against white and grey in all their variations, which designers are touting for today’s clean, contemporary kitchens. Yet the new finish also suits natural wood tones as well as most paint colours, including bright.

CON: It’s prone to scratching.

The black surface is created with a coloured acrylic coating across regular stainless steel that unfortunately scratches fairly easily. That means any ding or nick—from a piece of furniture, a child’s bike, even a laundry basket—could remove the coating to reveal the silvery stainless steel underneath. Such scratches are glaringly obvious, marring the beauty of a pricey appliance. And while some manufacturers offer touch-up kits to hide the scratches in stainless steel, it’s generally very difficult to restore the black stainless steel to its original pristine appearance.

CON: Different manufacturers’ black finishes can clash.

Surely you’ve seen how a pair of black pants with a greenish undertone can clash with a black shirt that has a reddish undertone. So don’t assume that all black finishes are the same and will automatically look good together. Black from one brand may not match black from another because each has a slightly different undertone. To avoid an off-putting look, buy all new appliances at the same time from the same brand.

collect
0
avatar
George Washington Toma
guide
Zupyak is the world’s largest content marketing community, with over 400 000 members and 3 million articles. Explore and get your content discovered.
Read more