Help & advice
Pros and cons of different metals for the bathroom
Metal is 100% recyclable, it is permanent, and it can be recycled forever, over and over again. Look for products using recycled metals, and manufacturers who are committed to energy efficient processes, thinking about the entire life cycle of the metal - mining, processing, transportation, and end-of-life.
Pros and cons at a glance
Looking at resistance to corrosion (and therefore how long the metal might last without tarnish), cost, how durable it is and how easy it is to keep clean.
Feature | Stainless Steel | Chrome | Brass | Copper | Aluminium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Corrosion (resistance) | |||||
Cost | |||||
Durability | |||||
Cleaning |
Details
Across all the metals listed, when it comes to ease of cleaning, satin finishes will hide water spots better than polished finishes.
Stainless Steel
- Highly resistant to corrosion
- Tends to be more expensive than chrome plating
- Highly durable
- Stainless steel has a smooth, non-absorbent surface that is very resistant, non-toxic and can be thoroughly cleaned with aggressive disinfectants and may be sterilised
Chrome
- Long-term exposure to water, heat elements and contact with hot and cold air will cause chrome plating to corrode
- Tends to be cheaper than stainless steel
- Can be prone to scratches and may tarnish over time (be careful with hard sponges)
- Water spots and fingerprints are more noticeable on chrome. Does not tolerate aggressive cleaning agent
Brass
- Good corrosion resistance
- Tends to be more expensive than stainless steel
- Highly durable
- Requires regular polishing
Additionally, untreated, unlacquered brass is antimicrobial – killing bacteria that cause infections.
Copper
- Copper and its alloys are extremely resistant to corrosion, but a superficial discoloring tarnish eventually forms with exposure to the atmosphere and handling
- Usually slightly cheaper than brass
- Highly durable
- Requires regular polishing to prevent tarnishing
Additionally, untreated, unlacquered copper is antimicrobial – killing bacteria that cause infections.
Aluminium
- Aluminium does not rust, but it does corrode, although fairly slowly
- Tends to be around the same price as chrome, so slightly cheaper than stainless steel
- Highly durable
- Relatively easy to maintain and clean, although gentle cleaning products are recommended. You should not use caustic soda or baking powder on aluminium
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