Satin Nickel vs Brushed Nickel bathroom fixtures - Technical Comparison

Satin Nickel or Brushed Nickel bathroom fixtures

Satin Nickel vs Brushed Nickel!

(updated April 2023)

Are you curious about the disparities between satin nickel and brushed nickel?

Do you find it perplexing to differentiate or identify their similarities?

Are you uncertain about which one is more advantageous to utilize?

In this article will elucidate all these aspects and assist you in comprehending the disparities, similarities, suitable applications, and the pros and cons of each.

Although satin nickel vs brushed nickel may be simple to differentiate however each finish has its own unique pros and cons in terms of durability, maintenance, applications, style and pricing. To determine what is best for your bathroom or kitchen you can read below.

Brushed Nickel is referred to the metallic element used to make stainless steel (and other alloys) stronger and better able to withstand extreme temperatures and corrosive environments. On the other hand satin finish has no abrasion to its finish, and unlike brushed nickel, the satin finish is not a specific metallic element but a type of surface treatment applied to various metals, including stainless steel, aluminum, and titanium. Satin finish involves a more straightforward process of sanding the metals surface, resulting in a smooth and consistent appearance. The finish is characterized by its low reflectivity and lack of shine, offering a subtle, soft sheen instead.

Looking for comparison of Satin Nickel vs Satin Brushed Nickel Bathroom Fixtures? satin nickel offers a more polished and reflective look, while brushed nickel provides a textured and muted appearance. Brushed Nickel a slightly matte appearance and a more subdued, understated look compared to the polished shine of satin nickel. Brushed nickel is often chosen for its ability to hide fingerprints, smudges, and scratches, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas.

The bathroom shower system and shower fixtures hardware are available in various finishes, including brushed, satin, and chrome. Satin nickel is generally considered a subdued brass finish achieved through an electroplating process. It results in a dull appearance without the brushed texture, but rather a smooth texture. This finish is sometimes referred to as satin stainless steel. So, if your bathroom faucet is in brushed nickel and you are choosing a shower set, should you opt for a satin shower faucet or stick with brushed? BathSelect shower system offers three popular options: satin nickel, brushed nickel, and polished finishes. Nickel, for instance, provides both visual appeal and structural durability in shower hardware. It ages well and, with proper maintenance, can retain a nearly new look even after years of use.

Satin Nickel Vs. Brushed Nickel Shower System

Satin nickel isn’t technically a metal itself, but rather the nickel plating put on shower heads, shower arms, shower mixers and knobs with a zinc or brass base. It’s typically applied through electrolysis and then treated with a lacquer to dull the nickel’s usually shiny surface. Many showers, faucets, and fixture hardware consider satin nickel and brushed nickel to be the same finish.

Ultimately, the decision between Satin Nickel and Brushed Nickel comes down to your personal taste and the overall style of your bathroom. Consider the other finishes and fixtures in your bathroom and choose the one that complements them best. Both finishes can provide design beauty and durability to your shower system, so you can’t go wrong with either choice.

However true brushed nickel accessories are usually brushed with a tool (such as a wire brush), which creates small abrasions on the metal, all going in the same direction. This brushing technique removes some of the natural shine from the metal, although not to the extent of the lacquer found on satin nickel hardware.

On the other hand Polished nickel  showers, faucets and hardware differs from satin and brushed nickel in terms of treatment. It does not undergo the same processes of lacquering or wire brushing that dull the shine. As a result, polished nickel retains a mirror-like shine that is comparable to chrome.

Cost comparison: While satin and brushed nickel are comparable in cost, both tend to be almost half the price of polished nickel handles, shower heads, and other fixtures. That extra shine adds some extra cash to the price tag!

Ability to Match – Most people give their bathrooms a facelift every 5-7 years. Some are small changes such as new paint color or just a new faucet or some other specific fixtures. Others may do a complete bathroom remodel jobs. Although some exceptions do exist, however in general satin nickel bathroom shower sets continue to complement most bathrooms.

On the other hand, polished nickel’s high shine doesn’t always adapt to a changing environment. In fact, polished nickel can look downright cheap if mismatched with non-complementary tile colors, decorative accent pieces and faucet fixtures. Over the long haul, satin nickel’s fresh, subdued look is more easily incorporated into other design schemes.

Regular Use Damage Potential – Satin nickel shower hardware’s medium sheen hides water spots, scratches and fingerprints. In contrast, polished nickel’s high shine cannot conceal even the tiniest of scratches, prints or spots. The same imperfection on brushed or satin nickel will generally not be noticeable at all.


The Chrome faucets, shower head and shower set fixtures
brushed nickel shower head body jet handshower set

Brushed Nickel Thermostatic Shower Set with Pulsating Massage Body Sprays and Handheld are commonly used for walk in showers. The brushed nickel showers are easy to clean and maintain. The finish normally will stay in great condition the lifetime of the bathroom shower. Brushed nickel finish maintain its unique finish for a very long time. This brushed nickel thermostatic shower set with pulsating massage body sprays offers a combination of exquisite appeal, comfort, customizable features, and ease of use, making it an exceptional choice for a luxurious and enjoyable shower experience.

Chrome itself is commonly plated onto another metal such as copper or nickel to provide a little extra hardness and resistance as well as a shiny finish to the item. While chrome is primarily used for industrial purposes, the luster of chrome makes it a favorite for not only home fixtures but also for motorcycle engines and other automotive parts. Often a thin layer of chrome is applied over a thin layer of nickel, as both have high resistance to corrosion.

Nickel faucets, shower head, shower set, sensor faucet fixtures

Nickel’s high resistance to corrosion makes it ideal for mixing with other metals such as iron and brass. The majority of nickel manufactured in the world goes into making stainless steel. Nickel’s natural resistance to corrosion makes it a prime metal for use in home fixtures, as it is unlikely to rust or deteriorate from use.

Luxury Showers are available in Brushed Nickel Finish

The Brushed Metal faucets, shower head, and shower set bath fixtures

Brushed metal, be it nickel or chrome, refers to the method by which the metal has been finished. The term “brushed” refers to the appearance that a wire brush was used across the item, giving it directional abrasion lines after polishing. While “satin” or “velvety” metals include a smooth finish with no visible abrasions, brushed metals are meant to have a more handcrafted appearance that allows more interplay of light and shadow because of the rises within the surface.

Brushed Nickel Touchless Faucets



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FAQs

  1. Can I use vinegar to clean satin nickel or brushed nickel fixtures? It’s best to avoid using vinegar on satin nickel or brushed nickel fixtures, as it can potentially damage the finish. Stick to mild soap and water for routine cleaning.
  2. Is it necessary to use specific cleaning products for satin nickel and brushed nickel fixtures? Specific cleaning products are not necessary for routine maintenance. Mild soap and water are typically sufficient for cleaning both satin nickel and brushed nickel fixtures.
  3. Can I use a toothbrush to clean crevices on satin nickel? Yes, you can use a soft-bristle toothbrush to clean crevices on satin nickel fixtures. The soft bristles of a toothbrush are gentle enough to reach into tight spaces and remove dirt or grime that may accumulate in crevices.

Architectural Touchless Faucets for Public Restrooms

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Primary differences of bathroom fixture finishes

Brushed Nickel vs Satin Nickel

The main difference between Brushed Nickel and Satin Nickel lies in their texture and appearance. Brushed Nickel has a textured finish created by brushing the nickel surface with a wire brush or abrasive material. This process leaves fine lines or grooves on the surface, giving it a matte appearance. The brushed finish of Brushed Nickel provides a slightly duller and warmer look compared to Satin Nickel.

While brushed nickel and brushed chrome share many of the same properties, including a textured finished, the major difference between the two is in the tinting of the metal itself. Chrome plating gives metal a slight blue shine. Often this tinge is seen as giving a sophisticated and cool look to the finished piece. Nickel, on the other hand, has a natural yellow (or whitish) appearance.

This slight yellow hue is often seen as a warmer color than chrome’s blue. Varieties of Brushed nickel fixtures often come with a wider variety of finishes than brushed chrome. Chrome fixtures tend to have the same level of blue tint in every piece, while nickel ones appear more or less yellow depending on the amount of plating and density of the nickel used.

This means that fixtures from different manufacturers may take on a different appearance from each other despite being coated with brushed nickel. Selection Often selection between brushed nickel and brushed chrome comes down to price and appearance. Each metal is essentially just as durable and noncorrosive as the other; however, chrome is generally more expensive and offers a cooler appearance than the nickel.

In selecting between the two, consider the color of the surroundings; warmer colors, such as tan or earth tones, would look better with brushed nickel fixtures, while cooler colors, such as grey, blue or even white, may benefit from the bluish hue of chrome fixtures.

Similarly, because nickel has been historically used for metal finishing, it gives a more traditional, homey and antique look. On the other hand, chrome is a relatively modern addition and offers a more sophisticated, steely and modern look, following its rise in popularity for engines and other such decorative elements.

How to Care for the Satin Nickel Finish

The finish for Satin Nickel is perhaps the easiest of all the finishes, it is simply wiping dry with a soft cloth to prevent any water spotting and mineral build up over time. There are also available in the market few polishes that contains gentle cleaning and wax coating which are made specifically for the Satin Nickel Finish.

Here are few more images for you to differentiate between the Satin Nickel faucets vs Brushed Nickel faucets:

Example of Brushed Nickel Faucet Finish

Wall Mount Waterfall Tub Faucet Brushed Nickel Finish With Triple HandleBrushed Nickel Finish With Triple Handle

Limoges Deck Mount Brushed Nickel Double Handled Bathtub FaucetDeck Mount Brushed Nickel LED Bathtub Faucet

Nîmes Brushed Nickel Double Handle Deck Mount Widespread Bathtub FaucetNîmes Brushed Nickel Deck Mount Bathtub Faucet

Créteil Brushed Nickel Bathroom Widespread Vanity Sink Faucet Lead FreeCréteil Brushed Nickel Bath Widespread Faucet

Bravat Brushed Nickel Wall Mount Bathroom FaucetBravat Brushed Nickel Bathroom Faucet

BathSelect Modern Sleek Design Faucet Deck Brushed NickelSleek Design Faucet Deck Brushed Nickel

If you are concerned about visible fingerprints or water spots, brushed nickel may be a more forgiving choice.

Example of Satin Nickel Faucet Finish

Rio Contemporary Style Satin Nickel Finish Wall Mount Dual Commercial Sensor Faucet And Soap Dispenser

Rio Contemporary Style Satin Nickel Finish

Satin nickel fixtures are particularly well-suited for bathrooms with neutral color schemes. Whether your bathroom features shades of white, gray, beige, or earth tones, satin nickel can seamlessly blend in and provide a cohesive and elegant look. It complements a wide range of colors and maintains a harmonious balance in the overall design.

Ancona Deck Mount Single Handle Faucet with Hot/Cold Water Mixer

Satin nickel finishes are known for their durability and resistance to tarnishing. Therefore, they are an excellent choice for high-traffic bathrooms such as those in hotels, resorts, or commercial establishments. Satin nickel fixtures can withstand frequent use and maintain their aesthetic appeal over time with minimal maintenance.

Brasília Double Handle Brushed Nickel Wall Mounted Bathtub Faucet.

Satin nickel and brushed nickel offer distinct visual characteristics that can significantly impact the overall design of your bathroom. Whether you prefer the smooth elegance of satin nickel or the textured appeal of brushed nickel, consider your bathroom design, lighting, and maintenance preferences as to make an informed decision.

By choosing the right finish, you can create a cohesive and visually pleasing bathroom space that reflects your personal style.

The Different Advantages of Satin Nickel vs. Brushed Nickel Bathroom Fixtures

Satin nickel and brushed nickel are two popular bathroom fixture options known for their elegant and contemporary appeal. While they share similarities, there are subtle differences between the two. Understanding the advantages of satin nickel and brushed nickel can help you make an informed decision. Let’s explore the unique benefits of each finish:

Satin Nickel Bathroom Fixtures

  1. Smooth and Lustrous Finish: Satin nickel has a smooth and lustrous appearance that adds a touch of sophistication to any space. It has a slightly glossy sheen, but it’s not as reflective as polished finishes like chrome. This characteristic makes satin nickel an excellent choice for those seeking a more understated and subtle look.
  2. Versatility: Satin nickel complements various design styles, from modern to traditional. It has a neutral tone that pairs well with different color palettes and materials, making it a versatile option for creating a cohesive and harmonious aesthetic in your bathroom.
  3. Hide Imperfections: Satin nickel’s smooth finish is effective at concealing fingerprints, water spots, and minor scratches. This quality makes satin nickel fixtures relatively low-maintenance, as they require less frequent cleaning and upkeep compared to finishes that show marks more easily.
  4. Resistance to Tarnish: Satin nickel finishes are generally resistant to tarnishing, ensuring that your fixtures maintain their beauty and shine over time. They are less prone to oxidation and discoloration, providing a long-lasting and durable solution for your bathroom hardware needs.

Brushed Nickel Bathroom Fixtures

  1. Soft and Warm Appearance: Brushed nickel has a distinctive matte finish with fine brush marks or lines, creating a textured and warm appearance. This finish adds depth and character to bathroom fixtures, making them stand out as a focal point in your space. Brushed nickel’s unique texture gives it a slightly more casual and rustic vibe compared to satin nickel.
  2. Conceal Minor Scratches: The brushed texture of brushed nickel helps to hide minor scratches and wear, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas or fixtures that are subject to regular use. This quality contributes to the longevity and durability of brushed nickel finishes.
  3. Easy Maintenance: Brushed nickel fixtures are relatively easy to clean and maintain. Regular wiping with a soft cloth or sponge and mild soap and water is usually sufficient to keep the finish looking its best. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes that could potentially damage the brushed surface.
  4. Contemporary Appeal: Brushed nickel’s textured and modern appearance is well-suited for contemporary and transitional design styles. It can add a sleek and sophisticated touch to your bathroom while still maintaining a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Both satin nickel and brushed nickel finishes offer unique advantages, and the choice ultimately depends on your personal preference and the desired aesthetic for your bathroom. Consider factors such as the overall style of your space, maintenance requirements, and the level of shine and reflectiveness you desire.

Remember, whether you opt for satin nickel or brushed nickel, both finishes provide durability, resistance to tarnish, and a stylish appeal that can elevate the look and feel of your bathroom.

FAQs

  1. Can I mix satin nickel and brushed nickel finishes in my bathroom?  Yes, you can mix satin nickel and brushed nickel finishes to create a visually interesting contrast. However you will need to ensure that the combination maintains a cohesive design and doesn’t create an overwhelming clash.
  2. Which finish is more popular in a contemporary bathroom design?  Both satin nickel and brushed nickel finishes are popular choices for contemporary design. However, brushed nickel is often favored for its slightly more rustic and textured appearance.
  3. Does satin nickel and brushed nickel require special cleaning methods? Avoid using abrasive or sharp objects on both satin nickel and brushed nickel fixtures to prevent scratching or damaging the finish. Also, wipe up spills or water droplets promptly to minimize the chance of water spots or stains. Steer clear of harsh chemicals, acidic cleaners, and abrasive materials that can damage the finish. Stick to mild soap, warm water, and non-abrasive cleaning solutions specifically formulated for bathroom fixtures.
  4. Which finish tarnishes faster over an extended period of time; satin nickel or the brushed nickel? Although both finishes are designed to maintain their appearance over an extended period of time, however, if we were to compare the two finishes, satin nickel tends to show signs of tarnishing more quickly than brushed nickel. Since the satin nickel has a lacquer treatment to its nickel plating, so over time, these contaminants can accumulate creating a dull or tarnished appearance on the satin nickel surface. While on the other hand the brushed nickel has a slightly more durable finish due to the brush strokes and texture applied to the nickel surface. The brushed texture helps to mask and retain original appearance for a longer period of time compared to satin nickel.

Havana Deck Mount Double Handle Brushed Nickel Bathtub Faucet

 

Although Satin Nickel and Brushed Nickel may appear the same, however they differ in terms of their maintenance requirements and manufacturing process. Satin nickel usually show smoother look and appearance with no visible sign of abrasions verses the Brushed Nickel which due to intricate brushing process may show abrasion finish.

Can you mix and match with Brushed Nickel?

As a rule of thumb if you can create a good contrast to your bathroom fixtures then you have made a beautiful statement. Based on latest trends no need to stick to one specific finish across all your bath fixture project, since this may cause a dull look to your bath fixtures. However on the other side you must be careful in selecting those different contrast accent finish fixtures by identifying what goes with which finish. Again by doing so you will need to avoid the don’ts which are unacceptable options. For example a double vanity sink must include two identical faucets and same finish ( gold, chrome, bronze, brushed, etc.) Any difference is not acceptable. While the difference in the bath fixture finish  brings an accent / contrast that will create a bold statement.

Liguria Single Handle Deck Mount Kitchen Sink Faucet

For example you can have you bath faucet(s) in chrome while the shower system in brushed nickel, or you can have the Shower system in oil rubbed bronze while the faucets in Venetian gold. You can also mix the black bathtub faucet with gold sink faucets. Also you can mix brushed nickel shower system with gold faucets.

Quito Brushed Nickel Deck Mount Double Handled Bathtub Faucet.

Satin nickel and brushed nickel are popular finishes for bathroom fixtures such as faucets, shower heads, and towel bars. Both finishes offer a similar look and feel, with a subtle texture that gives a modern and stylish look to any bathroom.

Satin nickel has a smooth and consistent finish that is easy to clean and maintain. It has a soft and warm appearance that can complement a wide range of bathroom styles and decor. Satin nickel is also resistant to tarnishing and corrosion, making it a great option for high-use areas such as the bathroom.

Brushed nickel, on the other hand, has a more textured finish that gives a subtle matte look. It has a similar texture as the satin nickel but is a little more subtle, which gives a unique look. Brushed nickel is also known for its durability and resistance to tarnishing and corrosion.

Both finishes are versatile and can match well with different bathroom styles and decor. They can be paired with other materials such as chrome, glass, and ceramic to create a cohesive and stylish look.

In conclusion, both satin nickel and brushed nickel are great options for bathroom fixtures. They offer a modern and stylish look and are durable, easy to maintain and match well with various bathroom styles and decor. The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference and the look you want to achieve in your bathroom.

Body Massage Shower Jets from BathSelect

Satin Nickel

So what is satin nickel is it same as brushed nickel finish or is it different? The satin nickel is a matte finish and it has less texture vs the brushed one, furthermore the satin has no shine whether under direct sunlight or  dim light environment. it has more hue to it and it is less abrasive compared to the brushed. Here are few examples of the most popular satin nickel finish:

Satin Nickel Sink Faucets

Satin nickel is becoming the leading pick over other sink faucet finishes, it shows smoother appearance with no abrasions verses the brushed nickel.

Does Nickel Tarnish?

While nickel is known for its resistance to corrosion, it can still undergo tarnishing under certain conditions. Factors such the specific alloy composition, surface finish, and the surrounding environment; as exposure to moisture, chemicals, air pollutants, and acidic substances can contribute to the tarnishing of nickel surfaces. However, compared to other metals, nickel has relatively good tarnish resistance and can maintain its appearance with proper care and maintenance. Regular cleaning and avoiding prolonged exposure to harsh elements can help minimize tarnishing and keep nickel surfaces looking their best.

Brushed Nickel vs Satin Nickel Which one to choose?


When deciding between brushed nickel and satin nickel, which finish should I choose? It’s always good idea to consider samples of both finishes to get a better sense of how they will look in your specific bathroom space. it is highly recommended to obtain samples of both options. By doing so, you can better assess how each finish will appear within your particular bathroom space. It’s important to note that lighting conditions, including natural sunlight, can have an impact on the visual outcome of the finish. By evaluating these samples in your bathroom’s lighting, you can make a more informed decision and ensure the chosen finish complements your desired visual appeal. Ultimately, the decision between Brushed Nickel and Satin Nickel comes down to your personal style, maintenance considerations, and how well the finish complements the overall design scheme.

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written by

Volia works with Bath Select as a product specialist and writes about installation process and buying guides for our products.