How to choose the right white paint: Cool, warm & neutral explained

Why your “simple white” paint choice isn’t so simple — and some tips to get it right.

So how do you choose? It all comes down to the undertone — and understanding whether you need a cool, warm or neutral white for your space.

Cool Whites

Crisp | Bright | Contemporary

Cool whites have subtle blue or grey undertones. They feel clean and modern, making them ideal for architectural or minimalist styles.

Best for:

• Modern homes with black accents, marble, chrome or grey finishes
• Rooms with a lot of warm natural light (to balance warmth)
• Coastal or high-contrast interiors

Be careful if:

• Your space lacks natural light — cool whites can look sterile or cold
• You have warm-toned floors or furnishings (they can clash)

Popular Dulux Cool Whites:

• Lexicon® Half – one of the brightest, sharpest whites
• Vivid White™ – Dulux’s purest white with no tint; great for ceilings or trims (note: this can require more applications due to no tint)
• White on White™ – cool and fresh, ideal for contemporary interiors
  
  

Paint: Lexicon® Half

Warm Whites

Soft | Inviting | Timeless

Warm whites have yellow, beige or even peachy undertones. They bring a softness that feels welcoming — perfect for heritage homes, bedrooms, or anywhere you want warmth without colour.

Best for:

• Traditional, country, or Mediterranean-inspired homes
• Rooms with cool flooring (like concrete or grey tiles)
• Spaces that feel a little cold or shadowed — warm whites add light and life

Be careful if:

• You're using blue or grey furnishings — warm whites can make them look dull or mismatched

Popular Dulux Warm Whites:

• Natural White™ – a go-to soft white that works just about anywhere
• Antique White U.S.A.® – classic, creamy and perfect for traditional homes
• Whisper White – elegant and slightly warmer, great for character or coastal spaces
  
  

Paint: White Beach Quarter

Neutral Whites

Balanced | Versatile | Easy

Neutral whites sit in the middle — not too warm, not too cool. These are often the safest choice if you're trying to tie in a mix of warm and cool finishes (like oak floors and grey stone).

Best for:

• Open-plan homes with varied lighting and finishes
• People who want a white that “just works”
• Spaces where you want flexibility for future styling

Popular Dulux Neutral Whites:

• Snowy Mountains Half – soft and subtle, perfect for walls
• Hog Bristle® Quarter – a versatile neutral with a touch of warmth
• Milton Moon – for those wanting a greige-based neutral white with more depth
  
  

Paint: Snowy Mountain Quarter

Final Tips Before You Choose

• Test before committing: Use Dulux Sample Pots on large cards and move them around the room at different times of day.
• Consider surrounding tones: Your floors, benchtops, cabinetry, and even soft furnishings will affect how the white reads.
• Don’t forget light: North-facing rooms in Australia get warm light, south-facing ones are cooler — this affects how your white looks.

Still stuck? AUSMAR’s Design Experts can help you choose the right white for your style, finishes and lighting conditions. It’s worth it — because in the world of white paint, undertones are everything.