STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES: PROS AND CONS
Are you in the market for new kitchen appliances? If the answer is yes, you might be considering stainless steel appliances. They offer a sleek appearance that makes them popular, but like any product, they have their drawbacks as well.
One of the questions we often hear is, what are the benefits of using stainless steel appliances? In this article, we break down the benefits of stainless steel appliances as well as the potential issues you may face so you can make an informed decision.
THE BENEFITS OF USING STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES
Stainless Steel is Beautiful
One of the primary reasons people buy stainless steel appliances is that they give any kitchen a sleek, modern and clean look. Because stainless steel is a neutral color choice, it doesn’t compete with the other colors or designs you’ve used to decorate your kitchen. In fact, we think stainless steel is a great decorative choice for almost any kitchen except those with a determinedly retro style. You can decorate around it if you decide to update your kitchen because you’ll know that your appliances will look good with whatever new look you choose.
Stainless Steel is Durable
Appliances can be expensive to replace, so you’ll be glad to know stainless steel appliances are made to last. They are highly durable and resistant to damage, making them the perfect choice if you want to make a lasting investment in your kitchen.
Stainless steel is resistant to heat, water damage and rust, an important factor when you’re choosing a kitchen appliance. Rust can significantly shorten an appliance’s lifespan and that’s not something you’ll need to worry about if you choose stainless steel appliances.
Stainless Steel Resists Stains
If you have kids and pets, you might feel like you’re on a never-ending quest to avoid stains. One of the best and most impressive things about stainless steel appliances is that they resist stains – just like their name suggests.
Stainless steel is also odor resistant. It won’t matter how much garlic you use in your cooking. Your appliances won’t pick up that odor, and that means it won’t linger in your kitchen.
Stainless Steel is Non-Porous
You know stainless steel lasts, but did you know that it’s a non-porous surface that is easy to clean? However, it can still harbor bacteria, and sanitation is an important consideration in any kitchen.
You can protect your stainless steel from bacteria and other contaminants by sealing it, giving it the ability to resist bacteria growth.
THE CONS OF STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES
Stainless Steel Appliances Can Be Expensive
Stainless steel looks beautiful and sleek and that’s part of the reason that stainless steel appliances are in high demand. Unfortunately, stainless steel is also more expensive than the materials used to make traditional appliances.
Stainless steel is an investment. You should expect to pay more for stainless steel appliances, but a mitigating factor is that they are more durable and more resistant to damage than traditional appliances. It’s an investment that can pay off in the long run.
Stainless Steel Appliances Show Water Spots
Who would have thought water could be such a pain for stainless steel? The fact is, minerals in hard water can leave unsightly streaks, splotches, and even rust stains on your stainless steel, making it look dirty and aged.
Sometimes, these streaks can be difficult to remove. Luckily, using a treatment that polishes and protects stainless steel will leave your appliances looking clean and brand new, while also protecting them against future water staining and spotting. Be sure to use a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth to remove water spots since abrasive sponges or tools can scratch and damage your stainless steel.
Stainless Steel Appliances Show Smudges
Another potential downside of buying stainless steel appliances is that they’re stain-resistant, not smudge-resistant. That means they easily pick up fingerprints and smudges – something that can be a real concern if you have small kids or pets.
If you decide to get stainless steel appliances, you should be prepared to do something to deal with fingerprints. You can either embrace wiping them down multiple times a day – or you can use a sealer and protectant that helps stainless steel resist smudges and lint.
Stainless Steel Appliances May Not Be Magnetized
If your refrigerator is a place where you display your kids’ artwork and post reminders for your family, you’ve probably got a collection of magnets you use to hold them in place. Stainless steel appliances are not always magnetized.
It’s easy to assume that any metallic surface will hold a magnet, but stainless steel often won’t. If magnetization is something that’s important to you, make sure to ask before buying.
OUR RECOMMENDATION
We love stainless steel – and if you do, too, our recommendation is that stainless steel appliances are worth the investment. To avoid the daily annoyances of stainless steel such a lint, fingerprints and smudges, pick a product that will help you enjoy your stainless steel appliances by keeping them clean and sanitary.
