When it comes to kitchen upgrades, one appliance tends to steal the spotlight: the refrigerator. Even today, many households continue to choose a stainless steel fridge as their preferred option. Sure, we’ve seen trends come and go, matte black finishes, glass-front models, even retro-inspired colors, but stainless steel refrigerators remain timeless and the best neutral option. They strike a balance between sleek design, durability, and versatility that few finishes can match.
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Shop Stainless Steel FridgesSo why do stainless steel fridges continue to dominate kitchens everywhere? Let’s break it down and see.
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Are Stainless Steel Refrigerators in Style?
The short answer: yes. Stainless steel refrigerators are not just “in style”; they’ve become the default style for most homes. When you walk into almost any modern kitchen, chances are the fridge, oven, and dishwasher all have stainless steel finishes.
That’s because stainless steel matches with practically everything, a true neutral. Whether you’ve got white cabinets, dark wood, or high-gloss contemporary designs, a stainless steel fridge blends in while also standing out as a statement piece. Plus, it gives kitchens that “pro chef” vibe that’s still very much in demand.
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Are Stainless Steel Fridges Going Out Of Style?
Absolutely not! In fact, stainless steel refrigerators are evolving to fit modern needs. Manufacturers have introduced options like:
- Black stainless steel fridge finishes for a bold, modern look.
- Brushed stainless steel refrigerator styles that cut down on glare.
- Dark stainless steel fridge models that bring a touch of sophistication.
- Fingerprint-resistant coatings that make upkeep easier than ever.
So not only are stainless steel refrigerators staying in style, but they’re also adapting. With these variations, you can get the timeless look while also customizing your fridge to the aesthetics of your kitchen.
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Types of Stainless Steel Fridges
When choosing a stainless steel refrigerator, one of the most noticeable design decisions is the finish. Today’s stainless steel comes in several variations, each with its own look, feel, and maintenance benefits. Here are the most popular types you’ll find when shopping for a fridge:
➕ Classic Stainless Steel Fridges
This is the timeless option that made stainless steel refrigerators a kitchen staple. It offers a shiny, reflective finish that pairs beautifully with almost any cabinet style or countertop. Classic stainless does require regular wiping to prevent fingerprints and smudges, but it delivers that sleek, professional kitchen appearance.
➕ Brushed Stainless Steel Fridges
Brushed stainless has a softer, matte look thanks to a subtle texture applied to the surface. This finish is less reflective than traditional stainless, which makes fingerprints and streaks far less noticeable. Many families appreciate brushed stainless for its lower-maintenance appeal without sacrificing style.
➕ Black Stainless Steel Fridges
For homeowners who want a modern, dramatic look, black stainless is a standout choice. It combines the durability of stainless steel with a rich, dark coating that resists fingerprints better than traditional finishes. Black stainless refrigerators blend well with both light and dark cabinetry, making them a versatile statement piece in any kitchen.
➕ Fingerprint-Resistant Stainless Steel Fridges
An increasingly popular option, this finish has a protective coating that helps repel smudges and makes cleaning effortless. It’s available in both traditional silver tones and darker hues, giving you the look of stainless with a family-friendly twist.
Each stainless steel type offers unique benefits, so your choice comes down to lifestyle, design preferences, and how much time you want to spend on upkeep.
Pros & Cons of Stainless Steel Fridges
Like any appliance, stainless steel fridges come with advantages and a few drawbacks.
Pros
Timeless look
Matches almost any kitchen style.
Durability
Highly durable and resistant to rust and stains.
Variety of formats
Available in multiple formats, from french doors to side-by-side.
Easy maintenance
Fingerprint-resistant coatings make cleaning easier.
Resale value
Adds resale value to your home because of its universal appeal.
Cons
Higher cost
Can be more expensive than other finishes.
Fingerprints
Smudges and fingerprints still show on non-coated models.
Magnet issues
Magnets may not stick well to some stainless steel finishes.
Weight
Heavier than some alternatives, making them harder to move.
Visible scratches
Darker stainless steel versions may scratch more visibly.
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6 Best Stainless Steel Fridges
If you’re ready to outfit your kitchen with a sleek stainless steel fridge, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite options from the best brands on the market right now.
Samsung Bespoke 36 in. 29.0 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
Shop this Samsung Bespoke Stainless Steel Refrigerator
This stainless steel French door refrigerator offers a massive 29.0 cu. ft. of storage, perfect for big families or those who love to entertain. The fingerprint-resistant finish keeps it looking clean (no more handprints or nose smudges), while adjustable shelving gives you flexibility for bulk groceries or party platters. You also get Samsung’s modern cooling technology to keep food fresher longer, and the French door design makes grabbing everyday items quick and easy. The roomy freezer section is split into compartments, which helps keep frozen food organized instead of one big pile.
Whirlpool® 36 in. 24.6 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop this Whirlpool® Stainless Steel Refrigerator
A classic side-by-side stainless steel refrigerator, this Whirlpool model comes in at 24.6 cu. ft. It’s an excellent balance of fridge and freezer space, and the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel means less cleaning. Inside, adjustable door bins and spill-proof glass shelves make it easy to fit everything from gallons of milk to tall bottles. The side-by-side layout is especially helpful if you want frozen food at eye level instead of digging through a bottom freezer.
GE® 33 in. 24.8 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Shop this GE® Stainless Steel Refrigerator
Perfect for smaller kitchens, this bottom freezer stainless steel refrigerator has 24.8 cu. ft. of space. The freezer drawer keeps frozen items organized, while the fridge compartment is roomy and efficient. At just 33 inches wide, it’s easier to fit in tighter layouts without giving up much capacity. GE also included bright LED lighting inside, which makes it easy to see everything you have, even way in the back.
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LG 36 in. 25.5 Cu. Ft. PrintProof™ Stainless Steel Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator with CraftIce™
Shop this LG Stainless Steel Refrigerator
If you’re after a counter-depth stainless steel refrigerator, this LG model is a standout. With 25.5 cu. ft. of space, this appliance fits flush with your cabinetry for a built-in look. The CraftIce™ feature provides a bonus for cocktail lovers by allowing them to create slow-melting round ice balls at home. On top of that, LG’s PrintProof™ finish is designed to resist smudges, which is great for busy households. The smart cooling system adjusts automatically to maintain a steady temperature throughout the fridge, ensuring that produce and dairy stay fresher for a longer period.
Frigidaire® 36 in. 21.4 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Side By Side Counter Depth Refrigerator
Shop this Frigidaire® Stainless Steel Refrigerator
This Frigidaire fridge is ideal if you’re looking for a black and stainless steel refrigerator style but want it in counter-depth format. At 21.4 cu. ft., it’s slimmer but still functional, making it a great option for tighter spaces. The side-by-side doors give equal access to fridge and freezer storage, and the counter-depth design lines up neatly with your cabinetry for a built-in feel. Inside, adjustable shelving and bright LED lighting make organizing food easy, even in a smaller footprint.
KitchenAid® 36 in. 26.2 Cu. Ft. PrintShield™ Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
Shop this KitchenAid® Stainless Steel Refrigerator
This KitchenAid model, a stainless steel french door refrigerator with 26.2 cu. ft. of space, is perfect for anyone who loves organization. Its five-door configuration makes it easy to separate groceries, drinks, and snacks. The PrintShield™ finish keeps fingerprints at bay, while the pantry-style drawers give you extra flexibility for meal prep items. KitchenAid also includes their ExtendFresh™ Temperature Management System, which monitors both fridge and freezer sections to make sure food stays fresh.
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There’s a reason the stainless steel fridge is still king of the kitchen. From french door models with craft ice to sleek counter-depth builds, stainless steel refrigerators continue to deliver on both style and function. And with more options—like brushed, black, and dark stainless—there’s truly something for everyone. If you’re upgrading your kitchen, stainless steel is still one of the smartest investments you can make.
Ready to explore options? Check out stainless steel fridges at Orville’s Home Appliances, where you can browse models from leading brands with top features.
Stainless Steel Fridge FAQs
The best way to clean a stainless steel fridge is with a soft microfiber cloth and a dedicated stainless steel cleaner or a mix of mild soap and water. Always wipe in the direction of the grain to avoid streaks. For fingerprint-resistant models, cleaning is even easier—often just a damp cloth will do.
Small scratches can sometimes be buffed out using a stainless steel scratch remover kit or a non-abrasive polish. Always test in a small, hidden area first. For deeper scratches, professional refinishing may be the best option.
Not at all. In fact, stainless steel refrigerators continue to evolve with new finishes like black stainless and fingerprint-resistant coatings. Their versatility and durability make them a long-term design favorite in kitchens.
If you’re looking for stainless steel refrigerators, check out Orville’s Home Appliances. We carry a wide selection of stainless steel fridges, including french door, side-by-side, and counter-depth models, all from trusted brands!
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For nearly 60 years, Orville's has been synonymous with excellence in the home appliance industry. With eight appliance showrooms and a 110,000-square-foot warehouse stocked with 25,000+ major home appliances, we offer the largest selection of kitchen, laundry, and outdoor appliances in Western New York.
Every Orville’s location showcases over a 1,000 different appliance models, with products from today’s best appliance brands. From outlet deals to scratch and dent, we always ensure our customers receive the best value with a Low Price Guarantee. A continuously refreshed catalog of in-stock appliances awaits, ready and available for the region’s fastest delivery and installation service. Experience the Orville's difference today. Visit one of our local appliance stores and discover why we're your trusted source for home appliances in Western New York.
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