What is the best paint finish for white walls?

An eggshell finish, also called a satin finish, is best for white walls. It won't look dull or show wear quickly, as a flat finish might, but it's not too shiny, which can highlight imperfections. It's also easier to clean than other finishes . Save the semi-gloss and high-gloss for trim and baseboards.

Does painting your walls white make a room feel cozy?

If you choose white paint with yellow undertones, your room will feel cozier than one with a blue or gray tint. In addition, accessories, furniture, and artwork in colors and tones that work with the warm white will add to the coziness.

How do I choose a white paint color that complements my space?

Consider the colors that you want in the room. If you plan to bring in blue, green, and other cool colors, a white with cool undertones of blue and gray will be best. Colors like yellow, brown, or terra cotta will work better with a warm white. A cool white works better in a modern home, and a warmer white is more appropriate for a traditional or cottage style.

The 10 Best White Paint Colors That Experts Swear By

There's a lot to consider when choosing a white paint color. Let the experts help make your decision easier with these top picks for shades of white.

By

Jessica Bennett

Updated on February 8, 2023

Whether cool and crisp or soft and warm, white walls are one color trend that's never going out of style. A favorite in every room of the house, white and off-white paint colors offer a blank canvas, allowing you to layer in color through furniture and accessories. The ultimate neutral, white won't clash with your vibrantly patterned area rug or take focus away from your gallery of colorful wall art. Plus, white walls grant you the freedom to easily change the mood and color scheme of your space in just an afternoon.

However, choosing the best white paint color for your home isn't always simple. There are hundreds of white paint colors, all with different tints, brightness levels, and sheens. To help you navigate the broad range of choices, we asked a few color experts to weigh in on their favorite shades of white (and included a few of our own). Check out our list of the 10 best white paint colors for beautifully neutral walls.

white living room pure white paint — Courtesy of Sherwin-Williams

Pure White SW 7005, Sherwin-Williams

As the most popular white at Sherwin-Williams, this is truly a foolproof white paint color. "It's a timeless white that doesn't lean too cool or creamy, so it acts as the perfect neutral backdrop for any interior space," says Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams. "I love this color to brighten up a kitchen or living room, especially when paired with different paint colors, textures, finishes, and artwork."

white painted entryway — Courtesy of Benjamin Moore

White Dove OC-17, Benjamin Moore

For a true, classic white paint color, try White Dove from Benjamin Moore. Soft yet bright, it's ideal for moldings and trim but looks great as an all-over white paint color, too. Pair it with dark gray or black accents for an energizing, high-contrast look.

white bedroom polarbear paint — Courtesy of Behr

Polar Bear 75, Behr

White paint colors with balanced undertones, such as Polar Bear from Behr Paint, have a fresh, brightening effect. Erika Woelfel, vice president of color and creative services for the brand, calls this hue "a clean and clear white" that can help rooms feel more spacious. Use it on trim, walls, and ceiling for a bright, expansive result.

valspar white room — Courtesy of Valspar

Promenade 7006-3, Valspar

Valspar's Promenade is a warm white that Sue Kim, senior color designer for the paint brand, compares to "a hand-knit throw blanket" for its comforting, relaxing feel. "This peaceful white speaks to our desire for quiet in a noisy world," she says. "It's the perfect shade for a tranquil bedroom when layering on other whites in various textures."

white bathroom wimborne white no239 paint — Courtesy of Farrow & Ball

Wimborne White No. 239, Farrow & Ball

Creamy, off-white paint colors add subtle warmth to a room, but it's important to choose a shade that doesn't veer too yellowy. Wimborne White from Farrow & Ball has just a touch of yellow in it for added softness and depth. Patrick O'Donnell, international brand ambassador for the brand, loves this soft white because "it has none of the cooler, blue undertones you get in many generic whites."

white stairway pegasus paint — Courtesy of PPG Paints

Pegasus PPG1010-1, PPG Paints

PPG's Pegasus creates an elegant backdrop on walls in everyday living spaces. "This pale, snowy white has a foggy undertone and looks gorgeous when beside deep tones and greenery," says Amy Donato, color marketing manager for the PPG paint brand. The color beautifully complements dark wood furniture and decor in moody, saturated colors.

white entryway fresh kicks paint — Courtesy of Clare

Fresh Kicks, Clare

This bestselling white paint color from Clare is a favorite of founder Nicole Gibbons. "A true, neutral white wall paint like Fresh Kicks is best for creating a crisp, gallery-like feel that helps bold colors and bright accents pop," she says. "If you aren't sure what look is best for your space, you can never go wrong with a clean, true white."

white living room sanctuary paint — Courtesy of Sherwin-Williams

Sanctuary SW 9583, Sherwin-Williams

Sanctuary from Sherwin-Williams is a warm, welcoming shade designed to evoke calm. "It has just a touch of gray, giving it a soothing effect that's perfect for a relaxing space like a living room or bedroom," Wadden says. "If you want your space to feel even more zen, pair it with greenery and natural materials like wood and stone."

white kitchen off white paint — Courtesy of PPG Paints

Off White PPG1024-1, PPG Paints

With caramel and bronze undertones, Off White from PPG is a lightened-up shade of taupe. Donato says this yellow-based white is "modern and earthy yet doesn't look as institutional" as other white paint colors. She suggests pairing it with darker neutrals such as beiges, browns, and reds.

white painted modern dining room — Courtesy of Benjamin Moore

Paper White OC-55, Benjamin Moore

Paper White from Benjamin Moore is an off-white paint color that leans more gray than cream. Hannah Yeo, Benjamin Moore's color marketing and development manager, says this refreshing cool white is "perfect for highlighting clean lines of a modern design." Use it to reinforce the sophisticated, contemporary look of a dining room or formal living area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best paint finish for white walls?

An eggshell finish, also called a satin finish, is best for white walls. It won't look dull or show wear quickly, as a flat finish might, but it's not too shiny, which can highlight imperfections. It's also easier to clean than other finishes. Save the semi-gloss and high-gloss for trim and baseboards.
Does painting your walls white make a room feel cozy?

If you choose white paint with yellow undertones, your room will feel cozier than one with a blue or gray tint. In addition, accessories, furniture, and artwork in colors and tones that work with the warm white will add to the coziness.
How do I choose a white paint color that complements my space?

Consider the colors that you want in the room. If you plan to bring in blue, green, and other cool colors, a white with cool undertones of blue and gray will be best. Colors like yellow, brown, or terra cotta will work better with a warm white. A cool white works better in a modern home, and a warmer white is more appropriate for a traditional or cottage style.

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