Over the last few years, especially in newly constructed homes, stainless steel kitchen appliances have become the norm rather than the exception in kitchen design. Since the introduction of this style, two camps have developed; those who love stainless steel and those who hate it. There are many reasons for both and it all comes down to personal choice in the end, but here are the pros and cons of going with stainless steel.
Pros of stainless steel kitchen appliances
The people who love stainless steel for kitchen appliances claim that this material is easy to clean, resists scratches and is appealing to look at. They also claim that stainless steel is what home buyers want and therefore, increase the resale value of a home.
Stainless steel appliances can be fairly easy to take care of, if you do it on a consistent basis. There are commercial stainless steel cleaners on the market. Though those cleaners are fairly inexpensive and one bottle will probably last for some time, white vinegar actually is just as effective at removing smears as the commercial cleaner. It also disinfects, which most stainless steel cleaners are not specifically designed to do.
Depending on what the real estate market is like in your area, stainless steel can add resale value to your home. However, do not make this your only consideration when deciding on the look you want unless you plan on moving in the next four or five years.
Cons of stainless steel kitchen appliances
Some of the things people don't like about stainless steel kitchen appliances are the same as the features that people love. The surface is the main complaint. It smudges easily and is hard to keep clean. Some people say it is not a durable as other materials, that it can dent or scratch easily. Another complaint from the people who don't like stainless is the color. Many people feel that stainless steel is a fad and that the cost of this style does not justify replacing just to keep up with the latest trends. Actually, the lifespan and the appearance of your stainless steel kitchen appliances really depend on the amount of care and attention you give to them. A little extra time spent wiping up spills or smudges when they happen is worth the amount of time and money spent on replacing.
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