The Best Materials for Kitchen Cabinet Hardware

Are you looking to upgrade your kitchen cabinets? Whether you’re doing an entire kitchen remodel or are looking for low-cost ways to enhance the style of the room, new cabinet hardware is an important purchase. Which material should you go for? Here are some of the most popular choices to consider.

Chrome

Chrome is a stand-out hardware material that can be suited to either modern or traditional kitchen styles. The metal core is coated with a chromium veneer, typically with either a polished or brushed finish. Polished chrome hardware has a shiny, reflective finish that can look really nice, although it is more likely to show up smudges and fingerprints, so may require more frequent cleaning. Brushed chrome, on the other hand, has more of a matte finish so can be more forgiving when it comes to marks.

Stainless steel

Stainless steel is a reliable and durable option for your cabinet hardware. It has a simple aesthetic, which can look really beautiful and effective in a variety of kitchens. Stainless steel bar pulls are especially a popular choice for kitchen cabinets and drawers. One drawback is that stainless steel doesn’t have a great range of finishing options. However, it is scratch-resistant and will not become rusted or corroded over time.

Nickel

Nickel is a versatile material, available in a variety of tones and with lots of options when it comes to its finish and textures, with brushed nickel being a particularly popular option. As a result, you can style nickel to achieve either a traditional or modern appeal, or even a more rustic and weathered look. Its color and finish can become duller over time, but regularly cleaning your hardware can help to slow this process.

Bronze

Bronze is another highly durable material that can be finished to achieve a variety of different styles and aesthetics. Paired best with muted or neutral colors, bronze can add a bold touch to an otherwise minimalistic kitchen. Bronze can be polished for a bright and shiny appearance or made to look duller for a more antique look. Bronze is also resistant to rusting and corrosion.

Wood

While metal hardware tends to be the most popular choice, wooden handles are another viable option, especially if you’re looking for a more earthy look for your kitchen. You can have them nicely sanded and finished for a sleek aesthetic or exposed and unfinished for a more rustic appeal. There is also a range of staining options to achieve the tone and color to suit your kitchen.

We can help you design and install custom kitchen cabinets for your home remodel. Contact The Kitchen Center to find out more or to receive a quote.