Looking for a clean white paint that’s not too bright or too yellow?
Let’s talk about Sherwin-Williams Pure White (SW 7005) – one of the most loved paint colors for walls, trim, and cabinets. In this simple guide, we’ll explore what makes it special, how it looks in real homes, and how you can use it the right way.
What Is Sherwin-Williams Pure White?
Pure White is a soft white paint with a gentle warm touch. It’s not stark like some bright whites, and it doesn’t have strong yellow or gray tones. That’s why it’s a favorite for many designers and homeowners.
📊 Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 84
This means it reflects a lot of light—making your space feel bright, open, and clean.
What Makes Pure White Unique?
- Slight warmth: It feels cozy without looking creamy.
- No strong undertones: You won’t notice obvious yellow, blue, or pink tints.
- Versatile use: Works great on walls, ceilings, trim, cabinets—even exteriors!
👉 It’s a “go-to” white when you want a neutral but soft look.
How Lighting Changes the Look
Lighting can completely change how this color appears. Here’s what you should know:
Natural Light
- In north-facing rooms, Pure White can look a bit cooler or even flat.
- In south-facing rooms, it glows warmer and softer.
Bulb Type
- 5000K bulbs: Make it look crisp, even slightly blue.
- 3500K–4000K bulbs: Bring out its gentle warmth and natural look.
Outside Your Window Matters Too
What’s outside your windows can reflect onto your walls!
| Surrounding Element | Impact on Color |
|---|---|
| Red brick building | Adds pink tint |
| Green trees | Adds green tint |
| Blue-tinted glass | Makes it look cooler |
💡 Tip: Always sample the paint in your own space first!
Comparison: Pure White vs Other Whites
| Paint Color | How It Compares to Pure White |
|---|---|
| High Reflective White | Brighter, more stark |
| Alabaster | Creamier, more yellow |
| White Dove | Softer and more gray |
| Greek Villa | Warmer, with more yellow |
| White Snow | Cleaner and crisper |
🔎 Verdict: Pure White is more balanced—not too cool, not too warm.
Real-Life Example
Last month, I helped a family paint their entire home with Pure White.
- Kitchen: Faced trees—walls had a light greenish tone
- Living Room: Faced red brick—walls looked slightly pink
- Bedroom: Faced open sky—looked soft and clean
📌 Lesson: What’s around your house affects the final color. Always test on large swatches before painting an entire room.
Where Can You Use Pure White?
You can use Pure White almost anywhere, but here’s what works best:
Walls
- Looks clean and fresh, especially in modern or minimal homes.
Trim & Ceilings
- Offers a smooth contrast without feeling too stark.
Kitchen Cabinets
- Works great with black, gray, or navy accents.
🛑 Be Careful When Pairing With:
- Creamy countertops – may make the white feel too cold
- Honey oak floors – might not blend well
- Warm-toned tiles – can cause a visual clash
Color Pairing Ideas
Here are some expert suggestions for colors that go well with Pure White:
| Room Type | Color Pairing Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Modern Spaces | Iron Ore, Tricorn Black, Navy Blue |
| Peaceful Rooms | Sea Salt, Beach Glass, Light French Gray |
| Warm Living Areas | Accessible Beige, Cavern Clay, Perfect Greige |
💡 Pro Tips:
- Try color swatches at different times of the day.
- Use your room’s real lighting (natural + bulbs).
- Consider floors, countertops, and furniture before finalizing.
Pros and Cons Summary
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Clean, soft look | May feel cool in some lights |
| Works with many styles | Might clash with warm-toned elements |
| Great for trim and ceilings | Needs testing in each room |
| Not too stark or yellow | Outdoor reflections can alter look |
Expert Tips Before You Paint
- Always sample first on a large poster board or directly on your wall.
- Check the sample in morning, afternoon, and night lighting.
- Use proper bulbs (3500K–4000K) for most natural effect.
- Avoid pairing with too-warm or beige-heavy tones unless well balanced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use SW Pure White for trim and ceilings?
Yes! It gives a clean, subtle contrast without being too bright.
Q: Does Pure White look yellow?
No. It’s a neutral white with just a touch of warmth—no obvious yellow.
Q: Is it too bright?
Not at all. With an LRV of 84, it reflects light but still feels soft and livable.
Q: How does it perform outdoors?
It works well but test it first. Sunlight and surroundings can change the look a lot.
Final Thoughts
Sherwin-Williams Pure White (SW 7005) is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a versatile, balanced, and timeless white. Whether you’re painting your walls, ceilings, or cabinets, it delivers a clean look that won’t go out of style.
Just remember: every home is different. Test before you commit, and pay close attention to lighting, surroundings, and existing materials.
Want your paint choice to be perfect?
Then sample wisely, pair thoughtfully, and enjoy a space that truly feels like you.