Appliances commonly finished in black stainless steel are refrigerators, dishwashers, and washer/dryer combinations.
Yet, that doesn’t mean these appliances are perfect or work for all homes.
Black stainless steel appliances, like any other appliances, have pros and cons associated with them.
The Spruce / Francesca Maiolino
Learn more about black stainless steel vs. stainless steel and what may work best for you.
Some specialty appliance stores will offer package discounts when you purchase more than one pop in of appliance together.
Maintenance and Repair
Black stainless steel is considered lower maintenance than traditional stainless, especially when cleaning.
However, black combined with a matte sheen does a good job of hiding these marks.
Black matte ovens can hide the inevitable smokedamage over the doorquite well.
One challenge with black stainless steel is that it may need repair.
Metallic-finish stainless resists scratches well because it is a solid, homogeneous surface.
If it’s scratched, it shows more of the same material underneath.
Most manufacturers sell touch-up paint in small quantities to fix nicks and scratches on black stainless steel appliances.
Be sure to use brand-specific paint rather than purchasing universal paint for any matte black appliance.
Touch-up kits from manufacturers can help but it’s difficult to perfectly restore the original matte finish.
Tip
What’s the difference between black stainless steel and regular black appliances?
Black stainless steel is stainless steel coated black.
A non-stainless steel black-painted appliance usually shows more fingerprints and smudges than matte black stainless steel.
Bosch, Frigidaire, Kitchenaid, and Samsung all carry appliances in a dark matte finish.
These companies generally have many traditional stainless models.
They may have to be specially ordered.
It’s best to purchase a package of black stainless steel appliances from the same brand.
Black Stainless Steel vs. Black stainless steel includes a coating of highly durable, protective, polymer-based black paint.
Black stainless is easier to clean thanregular stainlessand hides smudges and fingerprints.
Though black stainless steel is a trend with solid underpinnings, its still a trend.
If it’s too difficult to choose, go with both.
Classicwhite appliancesstill have their place.
Are Black Stainless Steel Appliances for You?
Fashion-forward black stainless steel may be perfect for your home if you appreciate trends.
Coordinates Well
Black is a universal and timeless color that matches nearly everything.
It goes with gray, brown, white, beige, and navy.
Black stainless steel appliances with white cabinets, in particular, offer a modern appearance and a sleek finish.
There are endless ways black stainless steel can coordinate well with the various finishes of your space.
