brass, chrome or matte black? how to choose the right tap finish

Choosing the perfect tap finish can completely transform your kitchen or bathroom. With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming to decide between brass, chrome or matte black. Each finish has its own look, benefits and care needs.

In this guide, we’ll help you pick the right tap finish that suits your style, practical needs and budget.

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Table of Content:

Why Tap Finish Matters
Brass Taps: Timeless Warmth and Luxury
Chrome Taps: Sleek and Reflective
Matte Black Taps: Bold and Contemporary
Tips for Choosing the Right Tap Finish
Browse our range of Bathroom Taps
Browse our range of Kitchen Taps

Why Tap Finish Matters

The finish on your tap isn’t just about looks. It also affects durability, maintenance and how well the tap fits with the rest of your space. The right finish can highlight your design theme and add personality to your room, while the wrong one might clash or require too much upkeep.

Brass Taps: Timeless Warmth and Luxury

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Brass taps bring a warm golden glow that feels classic yet trendy. They work well in traditional, vintage or industrial-style bathrooms and kitchens. Brass has a natural resistance to corrosion and can develop a charming patina over time.

Pros:

Adds warmth and luxury
Durable and corrosion resistant
Ages beautifully with a natural patina

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Cons:

Can be pricier than other finishes
Needs occasional polishing to keep shine
May show water spots if not wiped regularly

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Brass taps pair beautifully with warm colour schemes, wooden cabinets and natural stone surfaces.

Chrome Taps: Sleek and Reflective

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Chrome is the most popular tap finish for good reason. Its shiny, reflective surface creates a clean and modern look that fits almost any style from minimalist to classic. Chrome taps are easy to clean and resistant to tarnishing.

Pros:

Affordable and widely available
Easy to clean and maintain
Reflective surface brightens the space

Cons:

Shows fingerprints and water spots easily
Can feel cold or clinical if overused
Scratches can be noticeable

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Chrome taps work well in bathrooms and kitchens with neutral or cool colour palettes and modern fixtures.

Matte Black Taps: Bold and Contemporary

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Matte black taps are a favourite for contemporary and industrial designs. Their bold, understated look creates a striking contrast against light tiles or countertops. Matte finishes also hide fingerprints and water marks better than shiny surfaces.

Pros:

Makes a strong style statement
Hides fingerprints and water spots
Works well with a variety of colours and materials

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Cons:

Can show soap scum or hard water deposits if not cleaned
Scratches or chips can be hard to repair
Slightly higher price point

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Matte black taps look stunning against white or light-coloured sinks, natural wood and concrete surfaces.

Tips for Choosing the Right Tap Finish

Consider your existing fixtures

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Aim for consistency with your cabinet handles, light fittings and other metal details.

Think about style and mood

Brass adds warmth, chrome keeps things sleek and bright, while matte black brings drama and modern edge.

Factor in maintenance

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Chrome is easiest to clean but shows water spots. Matte black hides marks but requires gentle cleaning. Brass needs occasional polishing.

Match your colour scheme

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Choose a finish that complements or contrasts tastefully with your tiles, countertops and cabinetry.

Your choice of tap finish has a big impact on the look and feel of your space. Brass, chrome and matte black all offer unique styles and benefits. Think about your personal style, practical needs and existing décor to find the perfect match. Whether you want classic warmth, shiny modernity or bold drama, the right tap finish will help you create a kitchen or bathroom you love.