Brass vs. Stainless Steel Cabinet Hardware: Adding the Perfect Finishing Touches to Your Kitchen

Brass Kitchen Cabinet Hardware

Brass hardware brings a sense of warmth and a slightly vintage feel to a kitchen. The orange-y, golden hue evokes thoughts of the sun and sand.

There's no doubt this finish screams "coastal chic."

Brass has been used in kitchens for ages. While the lacquered brass of the 1980s has fallen out of fashion, unlacquered brass with an aged, worn patina is extremely on-trend right now. This type of finish blends old and new for a uniquely timeless look.

Is brass better than stainless steel? In many ways, yes.

The warm glow and patina of real brass simply can't be replicated by other metals. Brass will develop a lovely, mellowed look over time. The finish wears well, showing signs of graceful aging rather than looking old and dingy.

However, brass requires a bit more maintenance than some other finishes. You'll need to polish regularly with a brass cleaner to retain the shine. But many homeowners find the beauty of real brass is worth the occasional upkeep.

Stainless Steel Hardware

For a super sleek, contemporary kitchen, stainless steel is tough to beat.

This versatile metal finish has a neutral, silvery-gray color that works with almost any style. Stainless steel looks especially sharp against white cabinetry or paired with cool-toned countertops like quartz or marble.

And of course it makes a particularly good choice if you already have stainless steel appliances.

Matching the hardware finish creates a cohesive look. This metal is also ideal if you want your hardware to blend in rather than stand out.

When comparing brass against stainless steel hardware, stainless comes out ahead for durability and low maintenance. It resists scratches, won't tarnish, and keeps its luster for years. You'll never need to polish or coat stainless cabinet hardware.

One downside of stainless steel, though, is it can look a bit sterile and institutional if not balanced with other materials and finishes. Using brushed stainless instead of highly polished can help soften the coldness. Consider combining with glass knobs or hardware with a mix of metals for more character.

So What's The Best Metal for Coastal Kitchen Hardware?

So between the two, what is the best metal for kitchen hardware in a coastal home?

In many cases, brass wins out. The warm, sunny color of brass just feels beachy. Unlacquered brass develops a beautiful, mellow patina over time that adds to the vintage coastal look.

But ultimately, the right finish comes down to personal preference and style. Here are a few factors to help you decide:

• If you want a more modern, sleek look, go with stainless steel
• Choose brass if you like a cozy, vintage vibe
• Stainless requires virtually no maintenance
• Brass needs occasional polishing but offers a richness you can't get with other metals
• Look at what other finishes you're using (faucets, lighting, appliances) and choose hardware to coordinate
• Mixing brushed stainless with unlacquered brass can give you the best of both worlds

No matter which finish you select, always opt for high-quality hardware. Solid brass and stainless steel will hold up better than plated metals. Spend a bit more for hardware that will last for many years of daily use.

The Takeaway

When tackling any kitchen remodeling project, your hardware should never be an afterthought.

The right knobs, pulls, and handles act as jewelry for your cabinets, creating a complete and cohesive look. Brass and stainless steel are two finishes that feel beach-appropriate for any coastal New Jersey home.

As you make finishing touches for your kitchen, weigh the pros and cons of brass versus stainless. And don't be afraid to mix metals or finishes if that's your style. Just like your dazzling seaside locale, the hardware possibilities are endless.

If you're looking for some input from the pros, let our team of experts at Oceanside Painting & Refinishing help you create the coastal kitchen of your dreams. Fill out the quick form below for a free estimate!