Kraus Bolden Faucet Reviews: Is It Worth It?

I’m thrilled to share my journey with the Kraus Bolden faucet, a sleek, modern addition to any kitchen that’s as functional as it is stylish. If you’re on the hunt for a faucet that combines commercial-grade durability with a chic industrial look, this is the one to get.

It’s not just about aesthetics—its performance, ease of use, and wallet-friendly price make it a standout. Trust me, after installing this in my kitchen, I’m convinced it’s a game-changer. Let’s walk through my experience, the pros and cons, maintenance tips, and how it stacks up against other brands.

My Experience With the Kraus Bolden Faucet

When I decided to upgrade my kitchen, I wanted a faucet that could handle my daily chaos—think pots overflowing with pasta, greasy pans, and a sink that’s basically a battleground by dinnertime.

The Kraus Bolden Commercial Style Pull-Down Faucet caught my eye online, and after reading a few glowing reviews, I took the plunge.

I went for the spot-free stainless steel finish because, let’s be honest, I’m not a fan of wiping down fingerprints every day.

Installing it was a breeze, even for someone like me who’s more comfortable with a spatula than a wrench.

The faucet came with pre-attached water lines and all the mounting hardware, so I had it up and running in under an hour. The single-hole installation and optional deck plate made it versatile for my sink setup, which was a relief since my old faucet was a nightmare to replace.

The 18-inch height fit perfectly under my cabinets, and the high-arc open-coil spring spout gave my kitchen an instant upscale vibe, like something you’d see in a fancy restaurant.

Using it daily has been a joy. The pull-down sprayer with Reach Technology is a lifesaver—I can maneuver it to every corner of my double sink without breaking a sweat. Switching between the aerated stream and powerful spray is as simple as flipping a rocker switch, which is great when I’m rinsing off stubborn food bits.

The 180-degree swivel is smooth, and the magnetic docking keeps the sprayer snugly in place, no drooping or wobbling. I’ve had it for six months now, and it still feels as sturdy as day one. The ceramic cartridge ensures precise water flow and temperature control, which is a big upgrade from my old faucet’s drippy, inconsistent performance.

One small hiccup: the sprayer head has a plastic end, which felt a tad less premium than the rest of the faucet’s solid brass body. But honestly, it hasn’t impacted performance, and the easy-clean rubber nozzles keep limescale at bay with a quick wipe. Overall, the Kraus Bolden has made my kitchen tasks smoother and my space look sharper. It’s not perfect, but it’s pretty darn close for the price.

Pros Of the Kraus Bolden Faucet

Sleek Industrial Design: The open-coil spring spout and spot-free finishes like stainless steel or matte black give your kitchen a modern, professional edge. It’s a statement piece that elevates the whole room without overwhelming it.
Effortless Maneuverability: The Reach Technology with a swivel adapter and 20-inch retractable hose lets you direct water exactly where you need it. Whether you’re filling a pot or cleaning the sink’s edges, it’s got you covered.
Dual-Function Sprayer: Switching between aerated stream and powerful spray is seamless with the rocker switch. It’s perfect for everything from gentle rinsing to blasting away stuck-on food.

Easy Installation: Pre-attached water lines and included hardware make setup a snap, even for DIY novices. I had mine installed in under an hour, no plumber needed.
Durable Construction: The heavy-duty metal body and ceramic cartridge feel built to last. After six months of heavy use, there’s no sign of wear or leaks.
Water Efficiency: With a 1.8 gpm flow rate, it’s water-saving without sacrificing pressure. I’ve noticed a dip in my water bill, which is a nice bonus.

Spot-Free Finish Options: The stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and water spots, keeping it looking clean with minimal effort. It’s a lifesaver for busy households.

The Kraus Bolden’s design and functionality make it a standout. The industrial look isn’t just for show—it’s practical, with a flexible hose and sturdy build that handle daily wear and tear. The ease of installation saved me time and money, and the water efficiency is a win for both my wallet and the environment. The sprayer’s versatility makes kitchen tasks faster, and the spot-free finish means I’m not constantly polishing it. It’s a reliable, stylish choice that delivers on its promises.

Cons Of the Kraus Bolden Faucet

Plastic Sprayer Head: While the faucet body is solid brass, the sprayer head’s plastic end feels less premium. It hasn’t broken or malfunctioned, but it’s a slight letdown compared to the rest of the build.

Coil Design Cleaning Challenge: The open-coil spring spout looks amazing but can trap dust and grime. Cleaning it requires a bit of effort with a soft brush to get into the crevices.
Limited Cartridge Warranty: The five-year warranty on the ceramic cartridge is shorter than some competitors’ lifetime coverage. It’s a concern if you’re thinking long-term maintenance.
Slight Hose Stiffness: The retractable hose is functional but can feel a bit stiff when extending fully. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it could be smoother.

Noisy Spray Mode: The powerful spray setting is effective but can be a bit loud, especially in a quiet kitchen. It’s noticeable when rinsing dishes late at night.
Learning Curve for Touchless Models: If you opt for the touchless version, the sensor can be overly sensitive at first, turning on accidentally. It took me a week to get used to its responsiveness.

While the Kraus Bolden is impressive, it’s not flawless. The plastic sprayer head and stiff hose are minor gripes, but they stand out in an otherwise high-quality product. The coil design’s cleaning needs and shorter cartridge warranty are worth considering if you’re picky about maintenance or longevity. The noisy spray and touchless sensor quirks might annoy some users, but they didn’t ruin my experience. Overall, these cons are manageable, especially given the faucet’s price and performance.

Maintenance Tips For the Kraus Bolden Faucet

Clean the Aerator Regularly: Unscrew the aerator every few months to remove debris or mineral buildup. Soak it in vinegar for an hour, then scrub gently with a toothbrush to keep water flow smooth.
Wipe Down the Spot-Free Finish: Use a soft, damp cloth to clean the faucet weekly. Avoid abrasive cleaners or pads that could scratch the finish. A quick wipe keeps it looking pristine.
Check the Cartridge for Leaks: If you notice dripping, shut off the water supply, remove the handle, and inspect the ceramic cartridge. Replace it with a Kraus-compatible part if needed, but contact customer service first for warranty support.

Tackle Coil Spout Grime: Use a soft brush or old toothbrush to clean the open-coil spout every month. A mix of water and mild dish soap works well to remove trapped dust without damaging the finish.
Inspect Water Lines: Check the pre-attached nylon water lines annually for wear or kinks. Tighten connections if you notice minor leaks, but don’t overtighten to avoid damaging threads.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Stick to mild soaps or vinegar for cleaning. Harsh chemicals like bleach can corrode the finish or damage internal components over time.

Test the Sprayer Nozzles: Wipe the rubber nozzles with a cloth to prevent limescale buildup. If water flow weakens, soak the sprayer head in vinegar to dissolve deposits.

Maintaining the Kraus Bolden is straightforward but requires consistency. Regular aerator cleaning keeps water pressure steady, and wiping the spot-free finish saves time on polishing. The coil spout’s design demands extra attention, but a quick brush does the trick. Checking the cartridge and water lines prevents bigger issues, and avoiding harsh cleaners ensures the faucet stays in top shape. These steps have kept my faucet looking and working like new, even with heavy daily use.

Comparison With Other Brands

Moen: Moen’s faucets, like the Arbor or Align series, are known for their sleek designs and innovative features like MotionSense touchless technology. They’re pricier than the Kraus Bolden, often costing $300-$500, but you get a lifetime warranty on both the finish and cartridge, which beats Kraus’s five-year cartridge coverage. Moen’s Reflex system makes their pull-down sprayers smoother than the Bolden’s slightly stiff hose, and their DuraLock installation is a bit more polished than Kraus’s setup. However, Moen’s spot-resist finishes, while effective, don’t match the Bolden’s variety of color options like brushed brass or matte black. If you prioritize long-term reliability and are willing to spend more, Moen’s a strong contender, but the Bolden offers comparable performance for less.

Kohler: Kohler’s Simplice and Artifacts faucets are direct competitors, boasting metal construction and features like Sweep Spray for powerful cleaning. Kohler’s lifetime warranty is a big plus, covering leaks and finish issues, unlike the Bolden’s limited cartridge warranty. Their sprayers feel sturdier, with no plastic components, but you’ll pay a premium—often $400 or more. Kohler’s designs lean more traditional, which might not suit modern kitchens as well as the Bolden’s industrial chic. Installation is similar in ease, but Kohler’s customer service is more established, with free replacement parts. The Bolden holds its own in style and price, making it a better value for budget-conscious buyers.
Delta: Delta’s Trinsic and Essa faucets emphasize durability with Diamond Seal Technology, reducing leaks better than the Bolden’s ceramic cartridge. Their MagnaTite docking system feels more secure than the Bolden’s magnetic dock, and Delta’s lifetime warranty is more comprehensive. Priced between $250-$450, Delta faucets are slightly more expensive but offer Touch2O technology for hands-free operation, which is more refined than the Bolden’s touchless sensor. However, Delta’s designs are less bold, lacking the industrial flair of the Kraus. For tech-savvy users, Delta’s innovation edge is appealing, but the Bolden’s affordability and style make it a strong alternative.
Pfister: Pfister’s Stellen and Ashfield faucets are budget-friendly, often priced closer to the Bolden at $150-$300. Their Pforever Seal ceramic disc ensures long-term reliability, matching the Bolden’s durability but with a better warranty. Pfister’s designs are more traditional, lacking the Bolden’s modern edge, and their pull-down sprayers don’t offer the same range of motion. Installation is DIY-friendly for both, but Pfister’s finishes, like spot-resistant stainless, are comparable to Kraus’s. If you want a classic look, Pfister’s a solid choice, but the Bolden’s commercial style and maneuverability give it an edge for modern kitchens.

Each brand brings something unique, but the Kraus Bolden shines for its balance of style, functionality, and price. Moen and Delta offer superior warranties and tech, Kohler excels in premium builds, and Pfister matches on affordability but not flair. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize longevity, innovation, or bold design.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Kraus faucets made by Delta?

No, Kraus faucets are not made by Delta. Kraus is a brand under the Masco Corporation, which also owns Delta and Hansgrohe. While they share the same parent company, Kraus sources its faucets from various Asian manufacturers, focusing on affordable, high-quality designs. Delta, on the other hand, manufactures its own faucets, often in the U.S., with a focus on advanced technology like Diamond Seal. Both brands are distinct in their production and design philosophies.

What is the top rated kitchen faucet?

It’s tough to crown one faucet as the absolute best since it depends on your needs, but the Moen Arbor with MotionSense often tops user and expert reviews for its reliable touchless tech, lifetime warranty, and sleek design. The Kraus Bolden is a close contender, especially for budget-conscious buyers, thanks to its industrial style, durability, and affordability. Delta’s Trinsic and Kohler’s Simplice also rank high for their innovative features and robust builds.

Is Kraus the same as Kohler?

No, Kraus and Kohler are separate brands with different approaches. Kraus, part of Masco, focuses on affordable, stylish faucets sourced from Asia, with a modern, industrial aesthetic. Kohler, an independent company, is known for premium, U.S.-made faucets with a broader range of traditional and contemporary designs. Kohler’s lifetime warranty and metal-heavy construction outshine Kraus’s five-year cartridge warranty and occasional plastic components, but Kraus offers better value for modern kitchen upgrades.

Is Kraus a reputable company?

Yes, Kraus is a reputable company, founded in 2007 and headquartered in New York. Now part of Masco, it’s gained a strong reputation for affordable, high-quality kitchen and bathroom fixtures. Customer reviews praise its stylish designs and responsive customer service, though some stand out in an otherwise high-quality product. The coil design’s cleaning needs and shorter cartridge warranty are worth considering if you’re picky about maintenance or longevity. The noisy spray and touchless sensor quirks might annoy some users, but they didn’t ruin my experience. Overall, these cons are manageable, especially given the faucet’s price and performance—thy choice for anyone looking to spruce up their kitchen on a budget.

Conclusion: For the Kraus Bolden Faucet

You can’t go wrong with the Kraus Bolden faucet if you want a stylish, functional, and budget-friendly upgrade. Its industrial design, easy installation, and solid performance make it a no-brainer for modern kitchens. Despite minor flaws like the plastic sprayer head, it delivers where it counts. After months of use, I’m still thrilled with my purchase, and I’m confident you will be too. Grab one and transform your kitchen!