Stainless steel appliances and equipment have been used in restaurants and commercial kitchens for years because stainless steel possesses a long life span. Stainless steel is simple uphold and is easy to keep clean. If you want a household kitchen that looks contemporary stainless steel products are the way to go.

The best appliance finish is the one that fits with your design aesthetic and lifestyle. Both black and stainless steel can give your kitchen an upscale feel, however, stainless steel has an industrial and contemporary look, while black can be softer and may give your kitchen a warmer vibe.

Many manufacturers and retailers offer Trade-In Programs for their appliances, where they'll accept a product of similar type—refrigerator for refrigerator—and provide you a credit toward the purchase of your new appliance. You can contact an appliance seller near you to see what appliances they will accept as a trade.