Brushed nickel and chrome faucets each have advantages for use in certain bathroom types. However, one of the faucet types requires less frequent cleaning, while the other requires special cleaning products. The technique for cleaning each is similar, aside from the frequency of cleaning.
Brushed Nickel
Brushed nickel faucets are coated with nickel using an electrolytic process. This process bonds the nickel coating to a brass underlayer. Nickel is dull and flat when compared to chrome. With the additional brushing process to knock down any reflective qualities, the result is a simple non-shiny surface. Chrome has a highly reflective surface similar to a mirror. It is made with the same electrolytic process, but instead of bonding nickel to the surface, chrome metal is used.
Cleaning Brushed Nickel and Chrome
Brushed nickel does not require as much cleaning as chrome because of its dull luster and flat finish. Sediment and dissolved minerals may collect on the surface, they do not show up as visibly as with chrome. The mirror surface of chrome shows all sediment build up. Cleaning nickel every other day is not required. In fact, cleaning the faucet often may wear down the finish. With a chrome faucet, frequent cleaning is needed, especially if your water has high sediment content.
Clean Brushed Nickel
Cleaning brushed nickel is fairly easy, but not as easy as cleaning chrome. To clean brushed nickel, take a mixture of half water and half vinegar, or a very mild household detergent, and wipe the faucet clean with a soft cloth or towel. Remove residue from cleaning with another clean towel. Do not scrub the faucet, and refrain from frequent cleaning. Excessive rubbing and polishing removes the nickel plating surface. This surface is prone to wearing away over time.
Cleaning Chrome
Chrome faucets may be cleaned with any basic household cleaner. Spray the cleaner on the faucet, then wipe the faucet clean with a towel. If sediment build-up is a problem, use a cleaner that dissolves lime and other minerals. Avoid cleaners with ammonia or bleach. Polishing chrome is an option; this retains the chrome luster and shine longer. Chrome tarnishes as the protective layer wears off.
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