Best Materials for Kitchen Sink Faucets: Where They’re Used, Pros & Cons, and Health Insights

Why Faucet Material Matters

Not all metals are equal. The choice of material affects durability, corrosion resistance, antimicrobial properties, and potential contaminants like lead. Below, we explore where different materials are used and why those choices matter.

Faucet Components & Material Makeup

Component	Common Materials	Material Properties That Matter
Waterway / Internal Parts	Lead-free brass, copper, stainless steel, PEX-lined waterways	Health impact: must be safe for drinkable water—lead ≤0.25%, corrosion-resistant, non-reactive
Spout / Exterior Body	Brass, copper, stainless steel, zinc, plastic with plating	Appearance & durability: corrosion-resistant, scratch-resistant, antimicrobial, aesthetic match
Handles / External Trim	Brass, ABS plastic, composite, nickel-plated alloys	Usability & finish integrity: temperature stability, surface feel, matching decor
Valves / Cartridge	Ceramic discs (with brass/stainless carriers), POM, PSU/ABS plastics	Functionality: leak-free, chemical resistance, wear resilience
Aerator & Internal Fittings	Stainless steel, brass, engineering plastics	Flow control & hygiene: prevents splashing, resists corrosion, non-toxic

 

🥇 Material Deep Dive by Component

1. Waterway / Internal Channels

• Best choice: Stainless steel (304/316) or PEX-lined waterways.
• Why it matters: Directly contacts your drinking water. Must be lead-free (≤0.25%) and corrosion-resistant. PEX systems like Delta’s “InnoFlex” avoid metal contact entirely.
• Faucet brass may still contain traces of lead—certified lead-free brass limits lead to ≤0.25% but is harder to source.

2. Spout / Faucet Body

• Brass: Classic, antimicrobial, and machinable—may patina over time.
• Copper: Offers strong antimicrobial benefits but needs polishing or sealing to control patina.
• Stainless Steel: Durable and leak-free, though visible fingerprints are common.
• Zinc / Plastic: Budget-friendly but prone to wear and corrosion.
• Finishes (chrome, nickel, bronze): Should be electroplated or PVD-coated to protect base materials.

3. Handles & Trim

• ABS/plastics: Used for lightweight, heat-resistant surfaces—often chrome-plated for finish consistency .
• Metal handles: Solid brass or stainless offers a consistent feel and heat resistance.

4. Valves & Cartridges

• Ceramic discs: Most reliable leak-free option.
• Plastic internals: POM, PSU offer chemical, heat resistance—commonly used in cartridges and mixing components.

5. Aerators & Fittings

• Stainless/plastic aerator housings: Regulate flow and minimize splash. Durable and hygienic.
• Brass or plated fittings: Require corrosion resistance under prolonged use.

Health & Safety Considerations

• Lead contamination risk is highest in brass waterways and fittings—especially in older or uncertified products. Brass can contain up to 8% lead historically  , and surface lead can persist even after cleaning.
• Certification matters: Look for NSF/ANSI 61‑9 or state labels like California Proposition 65 to ensure compliant lead levels.
• Copper & brass offer natural antimicrobial effects—EPA tests show brass kills 99.9% of E. coli in hours.
• Stainless steel is fully lead-free, non‑porous, and highly hygienic—a top choice for health & durability.

Key Takeaways

1. Prioritize lead-free internal waterways: stainless steel or certified lead-free brass.
2. Choose exterior materials based on desired look and maintenance level—brass and copper for luxury, stainless for toughness, zinc/plastic for budget constraints.
3. Ceramic valves + quality aerator balance performance and longevity.
4. Check certification: NSF, ANSI, CA Proposition 65 ensure safety and compliance.

By understanding where each material is used and its impact on functionality, hygiene, and safety, you can make smart, informed choices—helping your readers select faucets that are not just stylish, but smart and safe too.