Choosing tapware finishes: chrome, brushed nickel, matte black and brass

By the Baroco team, Mount Waverley · Updated October 2026

01Chrome: the low-maintenance benchmark

Chrome is the default finish for a reason. A good chrome-plated tap has a hard, glossy surface that resists corrosion and is easy to wipe down with a soft cloth. It shows water spots and fingerprints more readily than brushed or dark finishes, but those spots come off with a quick buff and a mild soap solution. For most Melbourne homes, this is the lowest-fuss option.

If you live in a hard-water area around Melbourne, you might see mineral build-up on chrome. Use a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water on a cloth, then rinse and dry. Avoid abrasive cleaners and scrub pads, as they can scratch the plating and dull the shine. Dry the tap after use to keep it looking fresh.

• Very easy to clean and maintain
• Shows water spots but they wipe off easily
• Matches almost any other finish in small details

02Brushed nickel: warm and forgiving

Brushed nickel has a satin, slightly warm tone that hides fingerprints and light water spots better than polished chrome. The brushed texture breaks up the surface so marks don't stand out as clearly. It suits both modern and traditional bathrooms, especially where you want a softer look against white tiles or timber.

Cleaning is similar to chrome but stick to gentle, non-acidic cleaners. Some brushed nickel finishes have a clear lacquer; avoid vinegar or harsh chemicals that can break down that coating. Wipe dry after use to prevent any mineral film building up over time. If you are not sure whether your tap is lacquered, check with the supplier.

• Hides fingerprints and small spots better than chrome
• Warm grey tone works with many palettes
• Avoid acidic cleaners if lacquered

03Matte black: bold but needs care

Matte black tapware is popular for good reason, but it is not as forgiving as chrome or brushed nickel. Quality matte black is usually a powder-coated or PVD finish. Lower-grade versions can chip or wear through to the metal underneath, so choose a reputable brand and check the coating method before buying.

Water spots on black can look like white or chalky marks, especially if your water has minerals. Soap scum also shows up more. Melbourne's water is usually soft, which helps, but you should still use a soft damp cloth with a mild, non-abrasive detergent, then dry the surface. Never use bleach, abrasive sponges or acidic cleaners, as they can etch the coating and cause it to peel or fade.

• High visual impact but shows soap scum and white mineral marks
• Needs a quality coating to resist chipping
• Clean with mild soap and dry after each use

04Brass: character and upkeep

Brass tapware ranges from bright polished brass to brushed, aged or unlacquered finishes. Polished or lacquered brass is stable and easy to wipe down, but the shiny surface shows water spots like chrome. Unlacquered brass will oxidise and develop a patina over time, which some homeowners love and others find unpredictable.

If you want a consistent look, choose a lacquered or PVD brass. Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid brass cleaners on lacquered surfaces, as they can strip the protective layer. Unlacquered brass can be polished with a dedicated brass polish, but expect it to change with use and exposure to moisture.

• Lacquered brass is stable; unlacquered develops a patina
• Shows water spots depending on sheen
• Use mild cleaners; avoid abrasives

05Matching finishes across the room

Once you pick a tapware finish, think about the other metal details in the room. Shower rail, towel rails, toilet roll holder, cabinet handles, even the toilet flush plate can all be matched to the tapware. A consistent finish makes the room feel intentional and calm, especially in smaller bathrooms.

Not every item needs to be identical. If you choose brushed nickel taps, a chrome basin waste or a chrome shower head can still work if the sheen is close. The main thing is to avoid mixing finishes with very different undertones in the same sightline, like bright polished brass with matte black, unless you are deliberately creating a contrast.

In a bathroom with a feature wall or coloured tiles, matching metals to the tile undertones can help. Warm metals like brass and brushed nickel suit warm whites and beige, while chrome works with cool whites and greys.

• Match the main visible pieces first: taps, shower, handles
• Small items like wastes and hinges can be slightly different
• Keep undertones similar where possible

06Mixing finishes without a mess

Mixing two or three finishes can add depth, but it works best when you treat one finish as the dominant metal and use another as an accent. For example, you might use brushed nickel for all tapware and cabinet handles, then introduce matte black in the mirror frame or light fitting. This keeps the room from looking busy.

A common rule is to stick to one finish per function: all plumbing fixtures in one finish, all hardware in another. Avoid mixing brass and chrome next to each other on the same basin, as the contrast can look accidental. If you are unsure, visit a showroom where you can see samples in person. Baroco Interior Innovations at 21/105-111 Ricketts Road, Mount Waverley has tapware on display, so you can compare finishes side by side under real lighting. Call ahead to confirm opening hours before you visit.

• Use one dominant finish, one or two accents
• Keep plumbing fixtures in the same finish
• See samples in person before you decide