Black is the new… black?! There’s no hiding the fact that black tapware is popular at the moment, and with good reason! It’s striking, makes a bigger impact than your typical chrome tapware and can really transform the style of your bathroom or kitchen. But like anything, there are always pros and cons. Let’s discuss the good and bad things and how you can maintain your black tapware.
PROS
- It’s aesthetically pleasing
Offering a modern edge, black tapware is currently on-trend and is undoubtedly striking and effortlessly chic. It can work well with any style of bathroom or kitchen and offers that wow-factor that we’re all searching for. It ticks all the boxes for a sleek, cool look and offers some flexibility with different colour schemes and palettes. - It’s versatile with different styles
Most of us tend to design our kitchens and bathrooms with a neutral colour palette to extend the longevity of their style, but even if you decide to take some risks and design your kitchen with loads of personality, the use of black tapware can work in both cases. In a neutral colour palette, the black tapware will stand out and become a pivotal feature and in a more colourful space, the black tapware will compliment its boldness. It tends to be featured in modern and contemporary spaces but can successfully work in industrial or country styled spaces. It all comes down to choosing the right shape to suit the style. - It’s priced competitively
The great thing about black tapware is that it doesn’t have to cost that much more than your standard chrome finishings. Like anything, there are more expensive options which would have a higher quality finish with extended warranties but as far as the price is concerned, it’s on a par with the other options available. - It’s readily available
There are certain tapware finishes like specific metallic finishes that aren’t easy to acquire but the great thing about black tapware is it’s readily available and easy to order so it’s unlikely there will be any lead times. - It won’t clash with other featured elements
If you’ve already got a ‘hero’ of the room, then black tapware will more than likely compliment it rather than overpower it. Natural materials in bathrooms and kitchens such as stone, marble and timber are on-trend right now and these materials match beautifully with black tapware. - It won’t show fingerprints
Compared to chrome, black tapware won’t show finger marks anywhere near as much, which is a win cleaning wise! Though it is susceptible to damage which we will cover below.
CONS
- The trend may end
Like any trend, it may date. It’s not really known yet if black tapware will last the test of time but compared to other metallic finishes like brass or rose gold, black tapware will more likely date less than these. - It can fade
No matter the finish on your black tapware, the colour can fade overtime if not taken care of. The best way to avoid this is to wipe the taps and other fixtures with a microfiber cloth after every wash. We know this can be annoying but it will prolong the life of your black tapware. - It is susceptible to damage
Black tapware is generally hard to scratch through wear and tear but plumbing tools can easily scratch the surface so your plumber will need to be careful when installing them. - It can show stains and dust
You shouldn’t use chemicals or wax based cleaners on your black tapware, we recommend using mild soapy water to clean and dry the tapware so the water doesn’t leave stains on the outer finish. The only other downfall is that black tapware easily shows up dust and make-up powder which can cause them to look cloudy when any make-up powder is wiped away.
At the end of the day, go with what you like. There’s always a lot to consider when deciding what finish your tapware should have but don’t let the cons of anything prevent you from getting them if you really love the look. With the proper care and maintenance, anything can stand the test of time.