Why your “simple white” paint choice isn’t so simple — and some tips to get it right.
White paint sounds easy — until you realise there are hundreds of whites to choose from. Some are crisp and clean, others soft and creamy, and then there are those that look perfect on the swatch but turn unexpectedly yellow, grey, or even pink once on the wall.
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.