Is choosing a white paint color the most stressful part of starting a new painting project?!

Tell us if this has happened to you….

You decide your kitchen is ready for a fresh coat of paint. You’re excited! You can picture it now: a nice, clean white wall with dark blue cabinets and bright green plants on a shelf.

You jump in your car and head to Handyman Hardware, ready to tackle this project! Rushing into the store, you stand before the array of paint colors, only to realize there are so many white paint options, and you have no idea which one will work best.

Believe it or not, we’ve been there! In fact, we’ve gone so far as to be so confident in choosing the best white paint color that we’ve skipped the testing phase of painting and jumped right into broad, sweeping paint strokes on the wall.

Only to realize the off-white paint color we brashly picked was way too bright in our space. Oops.

For our next project, we better prepared ourselves for success. First, we determined the tone of the other colors in the rooms, got paint samples, and tested patches of paint on our walls. We looked at these swatches at different times of day, which helped us find the perfect one the first time.

All of that to say, take our word for it. These Handyman Hacks come tried and tested! Let’s get started!

Understanding Different Shades of White

White paint isn’t just white; it comes in various shades that can dramatically alter the look and feel of a room. The main categories include warm whites, cool whites, and pure whites.

Warm Whites

Warm whites have yellow, red, or brown undertones, giving a cozy and inviting feel, perfect for living rooms and bedrooms.

Cool Whites

Cool whites, on the other hand, contain blue, green, or gray undertones, creating a crisp and refreshing atmosphere ideal for bathrooms and kitchens.

Pure Whites

Pure whites are neutral and versatile, offering a clean, classic look that suits any space.

Assessing Your Space

Let’s pretend we’re picking white paint for the kitchen project mentioned above. The cabinets are a dark blue color with gold hardware. The accent colors in the space come from bright green live plants, like pothos and philodendrons.

In this scenario, it’s important to consider how the white paint will complement these existing elements. The dark blue cabinets will pop beautifully against a crisp, cool white, while the green plants will stand out vibrantly. Additionally, the gold hardware will add a touch of warmth that can balance out a cooler white shade, ensuring the space feels both fresh and inviting. Considering the natural light in your kitchen is also essential, as it will affect how the white paint appears throughout the day.

Best White Paint Colors

Benjamin Moore White Paint Colors

Chantilly Lace

Chantilly Lace (OC-65) is a bright, clean white with no noticeable undertones. It’s perfect for creating a fresh, modern look and works well in well-lit and darker spaces, offering a crisp and timeless appearance.

Super White

Super White (OC-152) is a pure white similar to Chantilly Lace but not quite as bright. It's ideal for contemporary spaces and can be used to create striking contrasts with darker colors or bold accents. It has a slight blue and gray undertone, making it the perfect white for our kitchen example.

Simply White

Simply White (OC-117) has a hint of warmth with subtle yellow undertones, making it a versatile and inviting choice. It’s great for spaces where you want a soft, warm atmosphere without the starkness of a cooler white.

White Dove

White Dove (OC-17) is a soft, warm white with creamy undertones. It's perfect for creating a cozy, welcoming feel and works beautifully in traditional and modern settings, contrasting bold colors and natural wood tones gently.

EasyCare White Paint Colors

Antique White

Antique White (RM) is a classic, timeless white with creamy undertones that add a hint of warmth. It's a great choice for traditional spaces that pair beautifully with wood accents and antique furnishings.

Coconut Milk

Coconut Milk (10A1) is a soft, creamy white with a hint of warmth. Its gentle undertones make it an ideal choice for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in any room.

Coconut Water

Coconut Water (B316B8) is a light, neutral white with subtle cool undertones. It pairs well with warm and cool accents, making it an excellent choice for living rooms, bedrooms, and open-plan spaces where you want a cohesive and inviting ambiance.

Golf Ball

Golf Ball (10C3) is a bright, clean white that makes the room feel fresh and clean. This shade works particularly well in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where a sharp, pristine look is desired.

Quick Tips

• 1. Ask us for a paint sample! You can purchase a small paint sample to ensure it’s the right color for your space.


• 2. Always test paint samples to see how they look in your specific lighting conditions and alongside your existing decor.


• 3. Check how the paint color appears in morning, afternoon, and evening light to ensure it looks consistent and appealing in all lighting conditions.


• 4. Consider a bright, crisp white like Benjamin Moore's "Chantilly Lace" or "Super White" for kitchen cabinets to create a clean and modern look that complements various styles.


• 5. Pair white walls with bold accent colors like navy blue, emerald green, or mustard yellow for a striking and contemporary contrast.


• 6. Quality Paint Accessories Make a Difference: shop paint tools and supplies online.

Bringing It All Together

As we covered, choosing the perfect white paint color involves considering factors such as undertones, lighting conditions, and the intended mood of your space. Whether you opt for a crisp "Chantilly Lace" or a warm "Coconut Milk," ensuring it complements your existing decor is key.

One last Handyman Hack from our team: Matching white walls with white trim is important for creating a cohesive interior. If you have any questions, bring a picture of your trim!

How do you feel? Are you ready to get started? Whether you’re still feeling overwhelmed by the different white paint options or ready to purchase your favorite color, our team at Handyman Hardware can help!

For expert advice and a wide selection of Benjamin Moore and EasyCare paints, visit Handyman Hardware today!