Choosing the perfect white paint color for your walls can be surprisingly challenging. There are so many shades to consider, and the wrong one can leave a room feeling flat or too cold.
I’ve spent plenty of time trying out different whites, and I’ve come to realize that Sherwin Williams has some of the best options out there.
Their range includes everything from bright, crisp whites to soft, warm tones that create a welcoming atmosphere.
If you’ve ever found yourself staring at swatches, unsure of where to start, you’re not alone!
In this post, I’m sharing my picks for the 13 best white paint colors for walls by Sherwin Williams—each one designed to bring out the best in your space, no matter your style.
Whether you’re refreshing a single room or planning a whole-home makeover, these whites are guaranteed to make your walls look stunning.
Let’s dive into the perfect shades!
Also Read: 13 Best French Blue Paint Colors for a Chic Home
Top 13 White Paint Colors For Walls By Sherwin Williams
Finding the perfect white paint for walls isn’t as simple as grabbing a random shade off the shelf.
Whites have undertones, hues, and nuances that can dramatically change how a space looks and feels. After testing countless whites, I’ve narrowed down the absolute best options from Sherwin Williams—each with its own unique character.
If you’re looking for a fail-proof white paint, these 13 shades are worth considering.
Extra White (SW 7006)
If you want a bright, crisp white that leans on the cooler side, Extra White is the one. It has a high reflectivity that makes spaces feel airy and modern.
The blue undertones give it a fresh, clean look, making it perfect for contemporary or minimalist interiors. Unlike warmer whites, Extra White won’t turn creamy under artificial light—it stays true to its stark, clean finish.
Pearly White (SW 7009)
Pearly White is for those who want a soft, inviting white without veering into beige territory. It has a warm, subtle glow that makes it feel approachable rather than stark.
The creamy undertones ensure it works well in spaces with natural light, giving a cozy yet refined feel. It’s an excellent choice for bedrooms, living rooms, or anywhere you want a whisper of warmth without committing to a full beige or greige tone.
Pure White (SW 7005)
Pure White is a designer favorite—and for good reason. It has the perfect balance between warm and cool undertones, making it incredibly versatile. If you’re struggling to decide on a white, this one is almost guaranteed to work.
It won’t read too blue or too yellow, making it an excellent choice for walls, trim, and even ceilings. It pairs beautifully with wood tones and neutral furnishings, creating a timeless, sophisticated backdrop.
Reserved White (SW 7056)
Reserved White is the perfect understated white that reads as a soft gray in certain lighting. It’s cooler than some of the warm whites on this list but not overly stark.
This makes it an ideal choice for modern interiors or rooms with ample natural light. If you want a sophisticated white that feels clean but not clinical, Reserved White is a great option.
Toque White (SW 7003)
For those who love a white that carries a subtle warmth without looking yellow, Toque White is a fantastic choice. It has a light greige undertone that adds a bit of depth, making it ideal for open spaces where you want a touch of warmth without going full-on beige.
It’s a great color for creating a soft, inviting atmosphere while still keeping things light and neutral.
Origami White (SW 7636)
Origami White is another neutral white with a soft gray undertone. It feels modern but not too stark, making it ideal for contemporary homes.
If you’re looking for a white that pairs beautifully with soft blues or muted greens, Origami White provides the perfect canvas. It’s sophisticated and timeless, making it a strong contender for whole-house color schemes.
Shoji White (SW 7042)
Shoji White has a beige undertone that brings warmth without making a space feel overly yellow. It’s an excellent choice if you want a white that doesn’t feel too stark but still provides a neutral backdrop.
The slight greige influence makes it work exceptionally well with both warm and cool accent colors, making it a highly adaptable white.
Alabaster (SW 7008)
Alabaster is a classic for a reason. It’s one of the most popular whites because it offers warmth without looking too creamy. It works well in virtually any space, from traditional to modern interiors.
The soft glow it emits makes rooms feel inviting and cozy while still keeping a fresh, clean appearance. If you want a foolproof warm white, Alabaster is the way to go.
Greek Villa (SW 7551)
Greek Villa is a beautifully warm white that leans slightly toward an off-white but still maintains its freshness. It has subtle beige undertones that make it feel more relaxed and welcoming than stark whites.
If you love the idea of a soft, creamy white that doesn’t turn too yellow, Greek Villa is an excellent pick.
Snowbound (SW 7004)
Snowbound has a unique quality—it’s a cool white with just a hint of gray, making it perfect for those who want a crisp, modern look without feeling too clinical.
It’s a fantastic option for Scandinavian or minimalistic interiors, where you want a hint of softness but still maintain a cool-toned aesthetic. It works particularly well with black and charcoal accents.
High Reflective White (SW 7757)
If you need the brightest white possible, High Reflective White is your go-to. It’s the closest thing Sherwin Williams offers to a true, clean white without noticeable undertones.
This makes it ideal for trim, doors, and ceilings, especially if you want maximum contrast against darker wall colors. It’s also an excellent choice for ultra-modern spaces where you want a bright, gallery-like feel.
Dover White (SW 6385)
Dover White is one of the warmest whites on this list, with a distinct creamy undertone. It’s a fantastic choice for traditional or farmhouse-style homes where you want an inviting, classic feel.
Unlike some of the crisper whites, Dover White exudes a cozy, welcoming ambiance that works well in spaces with warm wood tones and soft textiles.
White Duck (SW 7010)
White Duck is another warm white, but it has a slightly earthy quality that makes it feel more organic. It’s the perfect blend of beige and white, making it an excellent choice for those who want a neutral color that isn’t too stark.
This is a great pick for spaces where you want a soft, lived-in look while still keeping things bright and fresh.
Why Designers Love White Paint Colors for Walls?
White paint colors for walls are a staple in design, loved for their ability to transform any space. They offer a perfect balance between simplicity and elegance, creating a blank canvas that enhances other elements in the room. Here’s why designers swear by white for walls:
- White walls let other elements shine: They provide the ideal backdrop for artwork, furniture, décor, and even scenic views.
- White walls make spaces feel bigger and brighter: White reflects light, opening up a room and making it feel more expansive.
- White walls work with any design style: From modern minimalism to traditional charm, white walls fit seamlessly into any aesthetic.
- White walls make decorating effortless: Easy to update, white walls allow you to change colors, textures, and patterns without a full repaint.
- White walls change with the light: White paint shifts in appearance throughout the day, reacting to natural and artificial lighting, creating a dynamic living experience.
How To Choose The Right White Paint Colors For Walls?
Choosing the right white paint color depends on lighting, undertones, and the overall aesthetic of your space. Here’s what to consider:
- Understand Undertones: White paints can have warm (yellow, red) or cool (blue, gray) undertones. Warm whites create a cozy feel, while cool whites add a crisp, modern touch.
- Evaluate Natural Light: North-facing rooms tend to have cooler light, so a warm white helps balance it. South-facing rooms get plenty of warm light, so a cooler white works well.
- Test Swatches: Always sample a few whites on your walls at different times of the day to see how they react to lighting.
- Consider Surroundings: The colors of your flooring, furniture, and cabinetry influence how white appears. A white that looks great in one home may look stark or dingy in another.
