While it used to be uncommon to find bathroom fixtures in anything but chrome, black bathroom fixtures are a trend that took off quickly and didn’t show signs of slowing down. While you can easily buy bathroom fixtures (sinks, faucets, toilets, and bathtubs, for example) in a black finish, it’s important to know the pros and cons before deciding. We researched this subject to help you make the best decision for your home.
The pros and cons of black bathroom fixtures ultimately come down to personal preference, tastes, and affordability. Consider aesthetic appeal, cost, and maintenance and how these three aspects affect your design in both a positive and negative way.
- Aesthetic Appeal - Will black fixtures create dimension or distract from your overall design?
- Cost - Is it necessary to replace all of the fixtures, or can you mix and match?
- Maintenance - Are you someone who likes to tidy up daily, or are you okay with the occasional water spot?
In this article, we’ll weigh out the pros and cons of each factor and discuss whether all fixtures need to match in terms of color and our favorite black bathroom fixtures available. If you’re not sure you’re ready to take the leap towards a black faucet, toilet, or even a tub - this article is meant for you!
Advantages and Disadvantages of Black Bathroom Fixtures
With any design project, we always recommend going through a list of pros and cons. This will help you determine if the project is best suited for your lifestyle and home before making any drastic changes or investing money. Grab a pen and paper, and let's consider what the pros and cons of aesthetics, cost, and the maintenance of black bathroom fixtures mean for you.
Aesthetic appeal
When it comes to aesthetic appeal, there's no right or wrong. It comes down to what you like, what's best suited in your home for you, your family, and your lifestyle.
Pros
Black bathroom fixtures can easily add a bit of intrigue to nearly any design scheme. A dreamy matte black finish on a faucet or showerhead adds a pop of glamour and warmth without distracting from the overall design. Whether your bathroom has a more modern feel or leans towards the traditional, black bathroom fixtures can be a side player or the start of the show.
Black fixtures can update an otherwise boring space or lackluster tile. Adding a sleek black faucet or showerhead to your bathroom can create a hotel feel without a hefty cost.
Cons
In some cases, black bathroom fixtures may be the odd man out. For instance, if your home has a bathroom with dated features or an outdated style, a black faucet or showerhead may look out of place and will surely stand out, but not in the way you might hope.
Don't set your design dreams aside. There's still hope! A surefire way to make sure your gorgeous black fixtures will meld well in your bathroom is by tying everything together. While you don’t need to ensure all of the fixtures in the bathroom are black, it’s ideal for surveying the room and seeing other pieces in the room that can be linked. For example, maybe a bit of paint to simplify the room and allow the fixtures to really pop.
Are black fixtures out of style?
Black bathroom fixtures were trendy once upon a time but are now, in most interior decorator circles, are considered a design choice. Some considerations to keep in mind are whether or not black fixtures will match your current design aesthetic, not only in your bathroom but in your home as well.
Cost of Black Fixtures
Black bathroom fixtures have come a long way in terms of cost. Only five to ten years ago, black fixtures would cost double or triple their chrome counterpart's cost! Not only that, but they would be a challenge to find at any local hardware store. Now they're affordable and readily available online and in most stores; however, if you need to replace every fixture, the cost can add up.
Pros
Thankfully, the cost of black bathroom fixtures has changed - and lowered - considerably over the years. The affordability and accessibility of black fixtures have made life easier for us to make the switch.
For example, these beautiful black bathroom fixtures from Luckln are affordable and a simple way to add a bit of intrigue to any bathroom. Reviewers love that this set is made of sturdy and solid metal with a durable matte black finish.
Click here to see the Lucklin 4 Piece Matte Black Bathroom Accessory Set on Amazon.
Another favorite fixture of ours is the Moen Eco-Performance Modern Tub and Shower in a stunning matte black.
Click here to see the Moen Eco-Performance Modern Tub and Shower Trim on Amazon.
Cons
While black fixtures are more affordable and accessible than they were ten years ago, it can get costly to replace the hardware already in place. And for those who have fixtures in perfect working order, it can almost feel like a waste to replace your old fixtures.
Should bathroom faucets match light fixtures?
Bathroom faucets do not have to match the light fixtures; this is entirely a personal preference. To save money and time, consider replacing one standout fixture to achieve a modern appeal. For example, you could replace a light fixture above a vanity and leave the existing faucet intact.
A stunning design such as the Designers Impressions 3-light bathroom fixture comes not only highly-rated but also highly affordable.
Click here to see the Designers Impressions Matte Black Bathroom Fixture.
If purchasing new bathroom fixtures isn't in your budget right now, you may want to try it yourself. Painting your bathroom fixtures is a popular alternative, and with some spray paint, a few tools, and a bit of time and patience, you could have the look you want for a fraction of the cost. For detailed instructions on how to paint your bathroom faucets, check out our detailed instructions at the link below.
How To Paint Bathroom Sink Faucets [6 Steps]
Maintenance of Black Fixtures
Many people worry that black fixtures will quickly become dull, scratched, or a challenge to maintain. Fortunately, this isn't the case at all. Black fixtures are family-friendly and easy to clean.
Pros
Maintaining black fixtures is a relatively easy undertaking as long as you've installed quality materials. You shouldn't require special cleaning agents to maintain the matte finish and
Cons
If you've opted to paint your fixtures, you may struggle to keep them as shiny and new as the first day they were painted. Some fixtures on the market are made of a lesser quality finish, leading to chips in the paint from cleaning and heavy day-to-day use.
Are black bathroom fixtures hard to keep clean?
Depending on the fixture's quality and material, a matte black finish is relatively easy to keep clean. Water spots on faucets tend to be a common concern, but nothing a quick wipe with soapy water can't clean up. Just make sure you don't use anything abrasive when wiping down your black fixtures as you could scratch the surface.
Can you mix chrome and black fixtures in a bathroom?
It is no longer considered a design faux pas to mix and your bathroom fixtures. It doesn't matter if you choose to keep every fixture within the same design of you embrace an eclectic vibe because it all comes down to what you'd prefer in your home.
Can you mix black and bronze fixtures?
When mixing fixtures of different colors, it all comes down to personal preference. We recommend mixing metals of a similar finish (all matte finishes or all shiny finishes). Staying in line with a similar design, such as sleek and modern fixtures of different colors, will help keep your bathroom cohesive.
Bathroom fixture considerations
We hope that you now have all the information you need to make a pros and cons list when considering a black bathroom fixture design in your home. When you've made your decision, we'd love to know - please comment below! Will you mix and match? Did you choose matte black or shiny finish? For more bathroom design tips and information on bathroom fixtures, read our articles below.
15 Types Of Bathroom Fixtures You Should Know
Should Faucets Match Across The Bathroom?
10 Best Finishes For Bathroom Fixtures
FAQs
What is the best cleaner for matte black faucets?
The best cleaner for matte black faucets is a gentle, non-abrasive cleaner. A mild detergent solution of warm water and soap, white vinegar, or a specifically-formulated stainless steel cleaner can remove dirt, grime, and water spots. The finish can be damaged by abrasive cleaners or steel wool.
How do you get hard water off a matte black faucet?
To get hard water off a matte black faucet, you should start by soaking a microfiber cloth in white vinegar and then use the material to scrub the faucet. If the hard water is still present, you can scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush with the vinegar solution. Finally, rinse the faucet with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth.
Can you use Clorox wipes on matte black faucets?
No, Clorox wipes are not recommended for use on matte black faucets. They may cause scratches, discoloration, or damage to the faucet's finish. It is best to use a soft cloth and a mild cleaner specifically recommended for matte black fixtures.
How do you get water stains out of a black faucet?
To remove water stains from a black faucet, you can try the following steps:
1. Mix equal parts white vinegar, water, and a few drops of dish soap in a bowl. 2. Dip a soft cloth into the mixture and wring it out. 3. Wipe the black faucet with a damp cloth. 4. Rinse the cloth in clean water and wipe the faucet again. 5. Dry the faucet with a dry cloth.