Choosing a white paint color can be surprisingly challenging. With hundreds of shades available, finding the right white for your space can feel daunting. Each white paint color has unique undertones—some warm, some cool, some bright, and some muted. It’s not as simple as picking any white and expecting it to work perfectly in your home. Here are some essential tips and my favorite white paint colors to help you pick the perfect white paint!
Sampling is Essential
Always sample your paint colors in the actual space you’re painting. A color can look very different in one room compared to another due to variations in natural light. When sampling, paint swatches on multiple walls and observe how the color changes throughout the day. This will give you a true sense of how the paint will look under different lighting conditions.
Understand Your Needs
Before choosing a white paint, decide if you’re looking for a bright white or something more muted. Determine if cool or warm undertones will work best with your space and other finishes. Comparing your paint samples to a true neutral white can help reveal these undertones.
Compare with Other Finishes
When planning a renovation, compare your white paint samples with other finishes like cabinets, countertops, and flooring. Ensuring that all elements complement each other will create a cohesive look in your space.
Consider Popular Choices
Sampling popular white paint colors can be a great starting point. These colors are often used repeatedly by designers for a reason. However, always test them in your space first. For example, White Dove by Benjamin Moore and Alabaster by Sherwin Williams are popular warm whites, but they may not work in every home due to their yellow undertones.
My Favorite White Paint Colors
Here are my top picks for white paint colors, all of which offer subtle undertones and are worth considering:
Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace
A true neutral, bright white with no undertones. It’s a clean, bright white and a great benchmark for comparing other whites.
Sherwin-Williams Pure White
A bright white with a slightly cool undertone. It can sometimes appear slightly warm, making it close to neutral. In low-light rooms, it can have a silver-like undertone.
Sherwin-Williams Snowbound
Another slightly cool white with a gray undertone. It’s very white but might not match well with all the finishes.
Benjamin Moore Simply White
A slight warm white that’s highly regarded but best used when mixed in Benjamin Moore paint. It’s a favorite that I haven’t used due to the lack of a nearby dealer.
Sherwin-Williams White Flour
A slightly warm white that feels bright without being yellow. It’s a lesser-known but excellent option that I’ve used in my laundry room and plan to use throughout my house.
While these are my favorites, there are many whites with stronger undertones that can appear more gray or creamy. If you’re looking for a mostly white color with subtle undertones, these five are great options to consider. Remember, always sample and test in your space to find the perfect match!
