Pros and Cons of Stainless Steel Tapware: Is It Worth It?
Stainless steel tapware is quickly becoming a favourite in Perth kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries. Customers love its modern look, easy maintenance, and long-lasting durability. Stainless steel taps aren’t just sleek—they’re practical and eco-friendly, too.
But is stainless steel tapware really worth it for your home? While it certainly has numerous positives, such as corrosion resistance and versatile finishes that extend beyond the classic chrome look, there are a few drawbacks worth mentioning as well.
In this article, we’ll help you decide if stainless steel tapware is right for your home by carefully looking at both sides. We’ll break down the pros and cons clearly and honestly, covering everything from price and maintenance to style and durability, so you can feel confident you’re making the right choice.
Pros of Stainless Steel Tapware
Stainless steel tapware offers many benefits that customers appreciate. It’s not just stylish—it’s a practical choice for busy kitchens and bathrooms. From lasting durability to minimal upkeep, stainless steel taps can significantly simplify everyday life.
Durability & Longevity
Stainless steel tapware stands out for its exceptional durability, making it a wise investment for your home. Unlike chrome or brass taps, stainless steel doesn’t rust, tarnish, or corrode. Even in busy kitchens, bathrooms, or laundries where moisture is constant, stainless steel mixer taps remain looking new for years.
The secret behind this lasting strength lies in the use of premium 304-grade stainless steel, found in high-quality products like our Elle Basin Mixer and Cosmic Stainless Steel Sink Mixers. This robust grade is highly resistant to daily wear, scratches, and moisture-related issues. It’s also tougher than typical tapware materials, giving you lasting reliability even under heavy daily use.
At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, our confidence in the durability of stainless steel kitchen taps and bathroom taps is backed by an industry-leading 15-year warranty. That means you can trust your taps to remain attractive, functional, and problem-free for the long haul.
Choosing stainless steel taps also means fewer repairs or replacements. That’s great news for busy homeowners who don’t want the hassle of leaking or discoloured taps. Simply install stainless steel tapware once and enjoy consistent performance year after year.
If you’re looking for tapware that’s built to last, stainless steel is your ideal choice—it’s practical, reliable, and designed to withstand Australian conditions.
Corrosion & Rust Resistance
One of the biggest advantages of stainless steel tapware is its excellent resistance to rust and corrosion. This makes it perfect for wet areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundries. Unlike some other metals, stainless steel mixer taps won’t degrade or rust over time—even with constant exposure to water.
In Perth homes, especially near the coast, moisture and salty air can quickly damage regular tapware. Stainless steel kitchen taps and bathroom taps withstand harsh conditions. They maintain their original finish, making them an ideal choice for homes near the beach or in areas with high humidity.
If you’re looking for bathroom taps in stainless steel or brushed stainless tapware, choosing products made from high-quality 304-grade stainless steel ensures excellent protection against rust. This superior resistance means less maintenance, fewer replacements, and peace of mind for years to come.
Hygienic and Lead-Free Construction
Stainless steel tapware stands out for its unmatched hygiene. Made from premium-quality, 304-grade stainless steel, taps such as the Elle Basin Mixer or Cosmic Stainless Steel Sink Mixer are 100% lead-free. This eliminates health risks associated with lead contamination, ensuring your drinking water remains safe and pure.
Hospitals and healthcare facilities commonly choose stainless steel precisely for its hygienic qualities. The metal is non-porous, meaning bacteria and germs cannot easily accumulate on its surface. This significantly reduces the risk of contamination, making stainless steel tapware an ideal choice for kitchens and bathrooms, where cleanliness is a top priority.
Australia’s plumbing standards are evolving, with new regulations pushing for lead-free tapware by 2024. Stainless steel taps naturally meet these stringent requirements, putting them at the forefront of safe plumbing practices. By choosing stainless steel bathroom and kitchen taps, you’re not only enhancing the cleanliness of your home but also aligning with modern health and safety standards.
If ensuring the purity of your household water is a priority, stainless steel tapware offers unmatched peace of mind.
Hygiene & Maintenance Ease
Another major benefit of stainless steel tapware is how easy it is to maintain. Customers appreciate stainless steel kitchen and bathroom taps because they require minimal upkeep to stay looking their best.
Unlike other tap materials, stainless steel doesn’t tarnish, discolour, or fade over time. That means no expensive polishes or frequent restoration treatments are necessary—just straightforward, hassle-free cleaning. Daily maintenance is as simple as wiping your tapware down with a soft cloth and mild detergent. Fingerprints, smudges, and water spots are far less noticeable on brushed stainless finishes compared to polished chrome, so your taps look cleaner for longer and with minimal effort.
The durable, smooth surface of stainless steel also resists scale build-up and stains, ensuring your taps stay looking new for years. However, it’s wise to avoid abrasive cleaning pads or harsh chemicals, which could scratch the finish. With just basic care, stainless steel mixer taps remain attractive and functional, making them ideal for busy Australian families, rental properties, or anyone looking for stylish, low-maintenance solutions.
Read our article on how to clean tapware for guidance on cleaning stainless steel tapware.
Modern Aesthetics & Design Versatility
Stainless steel tapware offers a sleek, contemporary look that is perfect for modern homes. With a cool, metallic tone and a brushed matte sheen, these taps offer a sophisticated, minimalist style that never dates.
Whether you’re outfitting your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry, stainless steel mixer taps pair beautifully with stainless steel sinks and appliances, creating a cohesive, high-end finish. However, today’s stainless steel taps are no longer limited to the classic silver look. Our Cosmic range features finishes brushed gold, brushed nickel, gunmetal, matte black, and sleek chrome—making stainless steel tapware versatile enough to complement any interior style.
In bathrooms, brushed stainless taps deliver an on-trend industrial-chic aesthetic that’s both timeless and elegant. Customers love our stainless steel kitchen taps for their flexibility to blend seamlessly with diverse décor elements, from contemporary minimalism to luxurious sophistication.
If you’re looking to create a designer feel that’s modern yet enduring, bathroom taps in stainless steel are a stylish, practical investment. With premium quality, durability, and timeless aesthetics, stainless steel fixtures add lasting value and visual appeal to any home.
Water Efficiency & Compliance with Australian Standards
Choosing stainless steel tapware doesn’t mean compromising on water efficiency. Modern stainless steel taps, including kitchen and bathroom mixers, deliver outstanding performance while minimising water waste.
Most stainless steel mixer taps available in Australia feature built-in water-saving technologies such as aerators and flow restrictors. They are subject to the WELS (Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards) scheme, just like any other tapware, and typically achieve 4, 5, or 6-star ratings for efficient flow. For example, many of our stainless basin mixers are rated around 4.5–6.0 litres per minute, meeting top-tier water efficiency benchmarks.
All our stainless steel taps meet Australia’s stringent WaterMark certification requirements. This guarantees compliance with Australian plumbing standards for safety, reliability, and performance. By choosing stainless steel, you’re not only making a stylish choice but also a smart, environmentally friendly one. Stainless steel tapware lets you enjoy top-quality design without compromising your commitment to sustainability.
Cons of Stainless Steel Tapware
While stainless steel tapware offers numerous benefits, it’s important to be aware of its potential drawbacks. Knowing both sides helps you decide if this type of tapware fits your budget and needs.
Higher Cost Compared to Standard Finishes
One significant downside of stainless steel tapware is the higher upfront cost. Compared to standard chrome-plated brass taps, stainless steel fixtures usually come with a premium price tag.
The higher price comes from the quality materials and manufacturing processes used. For example, solid 304-grade stainless steel is more expensive to produce than chrome-plated brass. Because stainless steel tapware is designed to last longer and resist corrosion, it’s positioned as a premium product in Australia.
Although our stainless steel taps offer excellent value, expect to pay around 20–30% more than typical chrome fixtures. For homeowners renovating on a tight budget, this additional investment can be a challenge.
However, it’s essential to balance this upfront cost against the long-term benefits, such as extended durability, low maintenance, and corrosion resistance. Ultimately, choosing stainless steel tapware is a personal decision based on your priorities and budget constraints.
Fingerprint Visibility & Water Spotting
While stainless steel tapware effectively resists corrosion and rust, it isn’t entirely immune to visible marks. Fingerprints, water droplets, and minor water spots can appear, particularly on polished or satin-finished stainless steel taps.
In busy family bathrooms and kitchens, splashes from daily use can quickly leave behind noticeable water spots or fingerprints. While these are easy to clean off, regular wiping is recommended to maintain your taps’ appearance. Fortunately, these marks are purely cosmetic and don’t affect the tap’s durability or functionality.
A brushed stainless finish—such as the brushed nickel and brushed gold options in our Cosmic and Elle ranges—can help disguise fingerprints and smudges more effectively than polished finishes. If your home has particularly hard water, expect more noticeable mineral deposits or white spots. Keeping a soft cloth handy for regular cleaning will easily maintain the sleek appearance you expect from premium-quality stainless steel tapware.
Ultimately, this minor upkeep is comparable to caring for stainless steel kitchen appliances. Regular but simple care ensures your stainless taps continue looking stylish for many years to come.
Limited Style Options and Finishes
While stainless steel tapware is praised for its modern appeal, indeed, it doesn’t offer the same variety as other finishes. Typically, stainless steel taps come in two main finishes: polished and brushed (also known as satin). Unlike brass tapware—which comes in multiple electroplated finishes such as antique brass, rose gold, and bronze—stainless steel is usually confined to neutral, metallic tones.
This limitation means if you’re seeking more vibrant or distinctive styles, you might find stainless steel somewhat restrictive. Our Elle and Cosmic stainless steel tapware collections, for example, feature sleek, minimalist designs that are perfect for contemporary interiors. However, if you’re after something ornate, vintage-inspired, or distinctly coloured, stainless steel tapware may fall short.
While some modern stainless steel taps do offer subtle colour variations—like the brushed gold, gunmetal, matte black, and chrome finishes seen in our Cosmic range—the range of styles remains relatively narrow. This can make it challenging if you want your tapware to stand out as a bold focal point rather than blend subtly into your overall décor.
If you’re considering stainless steel, take a moment to consider your desired aesthetic. Stainless steel tapware is an ideal choice if sleek, minimalist elegance suits your home’s style, but it may not be the best fit if you’re looking for traditional or highly decorative designs.
Read our post on alternative finishes for kitchen taps to explore options beyond stainless steel.
Higher Weight and Different Feel
While the weight of stainless steel tapware isn’t typically an issue during installation, it’s worth noting that solid stainless steel taps often have a different feel compared to brass or chrome-plated alternatives. They tend to be slightly heavier and more substantial, giving them a solid, quality impression when in use.
For most customers, this added weight is viewed positively—it feels sturdy and well-made. However, if you’re expecting the lighter feel of hollow brass or plastic fixtures, stainless steel taps might surprise you.
When considering larger models, ensure that your benchtops and mounting surfaces are sturdy enough to accommodate the tap’s weight. While this usually isn’t a problem for standard installations, it’s a detail worth double-checking, especially if your benchtops are thinner or made from lighter materials.
Ultimately, this weight difference comes down to personal preference. Many appreciate the solid, premium feel of stainless steel, while others might prefer a lighter tap. It’s a minor point, but it’s one worth considering when making your final decision.
Potential for Scratches or Dents
While stainless steel tapware is exceptionally durable, it’s not entirely immune to scratches or dents. Lower-quality or thin-gauge stainless steel taps can sometimes dent or bend if accidentally struck with force. Similarly, abrasive cleaning materials, like scouring pads, steel wool, or gritty cleansers, can cause fine scratches or dull the finish over time.
In everyday use, taps can occasionally come into contact with metal utensils, jewellery, or tools, resulting in minor cosmetic marks. High-quality options, like our Elle and Cosmic ranges, which feature robust 304-grade stainless steel, are less likely to suffer significant damage, but careful handling is always beneficial.
Minor scratches on brushed stainless finishes can often be polished away, but deeper marks or dents may remain visible. It’s worth noting, though, that such imperfections are purely aesthetic—they won’t affect the tap’s functionality or its rust resistance.
If maintaining a pristine, scratch-free appearance is important, consider adopting gentle cleaning practices and avoiding harsh abrasives. With proper care, stainless steel tapware can remain looking sleek and attractive for years.
Conclusion: Is Stainless Steel Tapware Worth It?
Stainless steel tapware offers a range of benefits – from exceptional durability and corrosion-resistant performance to a hygienic, lead-free water supply and sleek, modern aesthetics. These qualities make it especially appealing when water conservation standards are high and coastal conditions can be harsh on lesser materials.
Customers who choose stainless taps often enjoy years of trouble-free use, easy cleaning, and the peace of mind that comes with a high-quality fixture.
However, the decision ultimately comes down to your priorities and budget. If you value longevity, cleanliness, and a timeless style (and are willing to invest a bit more upfront), stainless steel tapware is likely a worthwhile investment for your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry. The robust build and low maintenance can pay off in the long run, both functionally and aesthetically. On the other hand, if cost is a major constraint or if you desire a very specific decorative finish, you may opt for alternatives like chrome or powder-coated taps, accepting a shorter lifespan or increased maintenance.
In summary, stainless steel tapware is a premium choice that delivers on its promises: it remains rust-free, maintains a contemporary look, meets stringent Australian water standards, and resists the grime of daily life. Its few downsides – higher price, occasional fingerprint cleaning, and somewhat limited style range – are relatively minor for most, but they’re worth weighing against your needs. For many customers, the combination of hygienic properties, sleek appearance, and rugged durability makes stainless steel fixtures an excellent long-term investment
By understanding the pros and cons outlined above, you can decide whether stainless steel tapware aligns with your expectations and answer the key question: Is it worth it for you? If you think it is, Ross’s Discount Home Centre has you covered. Explore our extensive range of durable and stylish taps today.
