White paint may seem simple on the surface, but there are actually many different shades and tones to choose from. When selecting white paint colors, it’s important to understand the subtle differences so you can find the right white for your needs.
The Basics of White Paint
All white paint colors start with a base of titanium dioxide, which is a pigment that provides hiding power and brightness. The titanium dioxide is then tinted with small amounts of colorant to create different shades.
There are a few main categories of white paint:
- Pure white – Made with titanium dioxide and no added colorants. This is the brightest white.
- Off-whites – Subtle creamy or warm colors added to dull down the brightness.
- Tinted whites – A small amount of colorant added to slightly change the tone.
- Pastel whites – More heavily tinted with color to create very soft hues.
Within each category there is a wide spectrum of shades. Manufacturers may have dozens of whites in their product lines.
Pure White Paint Colors
Pure whites with no added colorants are the crispest, cleanest shades of white. They reflect light strongly and create a bright, airy feel. Here are some popular pure white paint options:
- Extra White – The whitest white available. It has the highest amount of titanium dioxide for maximum hiding power and brightness.
- Bright White – Another very crisp, clean white with excellent hiding power.
- White Dove – A popular soft, bright white that works well for trim and cabinets.
- Simply White – A bright white with just a subtle warm undertone.
Pure whites like these work well in modern, minimalist spaces where you want whites to pop. They make rooms feel clean and open.
Off-White Paint Colors
Off-whites are not pure white but instead have subtle creamy or warm undertones. They are softer and can feel elegant and soothing. Here are some common off-white paint colors:
- Chantilly Lace – A very soft white with a slight grayish undertone.
- Swiss Coffee – A popular warm off-white with subtle brown undertones.
- Alabaster – A light tan white that creates a cozy, welcoming look.
- Cotton – A crisp, clean off-white with a very subtle warmth.
Off-whites like these work well in traditional and cottage style homes where bright whites may feel too stark. They give a soft, relaxed feel.
Tinted White Paints
Tinted whites have small amounts of colorant added to alter the tone. This shifts them slightly towards another hue. Some popular tinted whites include:
- Decorator’s White – Tinted with a touch of yellow for a warm, welcoming white.
- Navajo White – Tinted with brown and tan for an earthy, natural tone.
- Heron Plume – Tinted with hints of blue-gray for a soft, coastal feel.
- Linen White – Tinted with taupe to create a sophisticated neutral white.
Tinted whites are versatile and work well in a range of decor styles. The subtle colors give them more character than plain bright whites.
Pastel White Paint Colors
Pastel whites have enough tint added to make them read clearly as a pale toned color rather than pure white. Some examples include:
- Peppermint Twist – A very pale green white with refreshing undertones.
- Lavender Snow – A softly tinted purple and white blend.
- Dove Wing – A pale gray white with calming, peaceful tones.
- Marshmallow – A soft white with a subtle pink kiss of color.
Pastel white paint colors work wonderfully in kids’ rooms, bathrooms, bedrooms and other spaces where you want a sense of tranquility. The soft hues are uplifting but also relaxing.
How Lighting Affects White Paint
It’s important to remember that lighting can impact how white paint colors appear. Different light sources will interact with the paint in unique ways.
Cool white fluorescent lighting and daylight often make white paint colors look clean and bright. However, under warm incandescent or yellow lighting, white paint can take on a creamier, peachier tone.
To get the most accurate sense of a white paint color, view swatches at different times of day and under lighting conditions similar to the room you’ll be painting.
Undertones in White Paint
All white paint colors have subtle undertones that affect their look:
- Warm whites – Contain yellow/brown/peach undertones and feel cozy.
- Cool whites – Contain blue/gray undertones and feel crisp.
- Neutral whites – No strong undertones, providing flexibility.
Consider the undertones of the white you choose carefully, as they can set the tone for an entire room’s feel. Warm whites pair well with natural materials like wood, while cool whites complement sleek modern decor.
How to Choose White Paint
When selecting a white paint color, here are some tips to find the best shade for your needs:
- Decide if you want a pure white or an off-white tone.
- Determine if you want a hint of color like a pastel or tinted white.
- Consider the undertones and how they’ll work with your lighting.
- View large swatches in the space and at different times of day.
- Test samples on walls to see the full effect before committing.
It’s always smart to get sample sizes and paint test strips before making a final white paint selection. Comparing shades on your actual walls is the best way to make sure you get the right white for your space.
Matching Existing White Paint
If you need to match existing white paint, there are a few options:
- Use paint color matching tools – Many paint stores can scan a chip and match the color.
- Buy from the same brand/line – Stick with the same company and white paint name.
- Repaint the whole space – If you can’t get an accurate match, just repaint entirely.
Matching whites precisely can be tricky since the age of the paint affects its appearance. A fresh coat looks brighter than old paint. For the most seamless results, try to repaint the whole area.
Finding White Paint Samples
The best way to evaluate white paint colors is with large sample swatches and test strips. Here are some ways to get white paint samples:
- Paint store sample cards – Get free small swatches of whites.
- Paint brand sample sizes – Purchase small 4-8 oz sample sizes.
- Paint strips on wall – Paint 8-10″ strips of whites on your walls.
- Online visualizer tools – Upload a photo to digitally sample whites.
Be sure to view the samples on your actual walls and at different times before deciding. This gives you the most accurate representation of how the white will look in your specific space.
Popular Brands of White Paint
Many major paint brands offer a wide selection of white and off-white paint colors. Here are some of the top options:
| Brand | Popular Whites |
|---|---|
| Behr | Swiss Coffee, White Metal, Polar Bear |
| Benjamin Moore | Simply White, Chantilly Lace, Linen White |
| Sherwin-Williams | Pure White, Alabaster, Extra White |
| Valspar | Swiss Coffee, White Flour, Simply White |
Each brand has their own unique white paint shades. Testing different options can help you find your perfect white match.
Specialty White Paint Finishes
Beyond basic flat, eggshell, and semi-gloss white paints, there are also some special finishes that create unique white painted surfaces:
- High gloss – Very reflective, glass-like sheen.
- Matte – Silky smooth ultra-flat finish.
- Chalk paint – Soft matte finish that can be distressed.
- Metallic – Infused with shiny metal particles.
Consider finishes like high gloss or metallic white paints for a touch of drama. Chalk paint creates a timeworn, antique white look when distressed.
Accent Colors That Go With White
White paint can be paired with almost any accent color since it acts as a neutral backdrop. Here are some popular accent colors for white walls:
- Navy blue – Classic nautical look
- Light gray – Airy, relaxed feel
- Crisp black – Modern and dramatic
- Forest green – Earthy and peaceful
- Bronze – Warm and elegant
Choose accent colors in artwork, furniture, rugs, and decorative items. Stick to just 1-3 accent colors to keep the look cohesive.
Conclusion
White paint is anything but basic. There is an endless spectrum of shades ranging from crisp bright whites to warm off-whites and pastel hues. Subtle factors like undertones and lighting also impact how white paint will appear in a space. Take your time testing different white paint samples in your home before deciding on the perfect shade.
