Are Stainless Steel Appliances Going Out Of Style? Here's What We Found

Stainless steel has been the go-to material for kitchens since the late '90s. If you spend a lot of time in the kitchen, then you know that stainless steel appliances are something you can always count on. It's the steel finish fridge that doesn't flinch at sticky fingers, and the steel oven that's still going strong after years of Sunday roasts. But trends come and go, and every few years it seems there's a new appliance craze. So, is stainless steel finally going out of style after all these years? Not even close.

What keeps us going back to these appliances is mainly their durability, and how easily they blend with a variety of textures and colors. While they were once considered futuristic and associated solely with industrial kitchens, stainless steel appliances are now softer in tone and can be paired with any style, be it modern, transitional, or even rustic. This material can bring order and contrast when used alongside neutral textures, while also providing elegance and luxury. For example, stainless steel takes center stage in David Beckham's London kitchen, where a full stainless steel backsplash, hood, and oversized worktop bucked the usual celebrity trend of marble or painted cabinetry. Even as trends evolve, stainless steel is one of the trendy kitchen appliances we'll continue to see in homes everywhere.

Stainless steel has been around a long time, yet it still carries a few outdated misconceptions. One of the most common beliefs is that the surface is hard to keep clean, thanks to visible smudges and fingerprints. This was true back in the day, however, many stainless steel appliances now offer fingerprint-resistant coatings that reduce upkeep. Also, the smoothness of the surface makes it easier to clean than other materials. Another concern is that stainless steel can feel cold and somewhat commercial, but that only happens if it is used in isolation. To avoid this, you can pair it with oak drawers, textured shelves, or pastel colors.

That being said, there are also major benefits of installing top-to-bottom stainless steel appliances in your kitchen. It does not absorb spills or grime, and when you cook in extreme heat, it stands strong. Stainless steel appliances have a chromium-rich coating that is corrosion-resistant, and have less risk of water damage or bacteria build-up. And since it won't warp, stain, or need frequent replacement, stainless steel will hold its value over time.

Maintenance is pretty simple, but that depends on the finish. If you prefer a glossy look, you'll need to regularly polish it to preserve the mirror shine. Or you can opt for a lower-luster finish, which requires less cleaning. Still not convinced? Here are some stainless steel alternatives that still look as sleek.