White may seem like a basic color but it actually comes in much more shades than some may think, especially offered by reputable paint brands like Behr. If you want to find the best Behr white for kitchen cabinets, you must first know what shade complements your space.

Determining which shade of white goes best with your kitchen involves considering several factors to ensure that the chosen color complements the space effectively. For example, a white that is very cool or with very blue undertones could give a room a harsh, clinical appearance. On the other hand, if the white is too warm or has very yellow undertones it can appear off-white and too yellow. The other colors featured in the space such as the walls, floors and countertops also play into which shade of white works best.

Though the process is not as easy as just getting any white paint from the store, it is also not difficult to find the perfect shade of white paint. Here are some steps to help you make the decision on the best Behr white for kitchen cabinets.

Consider the Light Reflectance Value (LRV)

LRV stands for Light Reflectance Value, which is a measure of the percentage of visible light that a color reflects. When selecting Behr white paint colors for kitchen cabinets, you can use LRV as a guide to finding the right balance of brightness, contrast and undertones. LRV ranges from 0 (black, absorbing all light) to 100 (white, reflecting all light).

Higher LRV whites reflect more light and tend to make spaces feel brighter and more open. If your kitchen has limited natural light or if you want to create a bright, airy feel, choosing a white with a higher LRV can help achieve that effect. LRV can also influence the contrast between your cabinets and other elements in the kitchen, such as countertops, backsplash, and wall colors. Lower LRV whites may create more contrast, while higher LRV whites may provide a more subtle transition.

Assess Natural Lighting

Natural light plays a significant role in how paint colors appear in a room. Consider the direction your kitchen windows face and how much natural light enters the space throughout the day. Whites with warm undertones (such as beige or yellow) can balance northern-facing rooms with cooler light, while cooler whites (with blue or gray undertones) can prevent southern-facing rooms from feeling too warm.

Also Consider Artificial Lighting

Artificial lighting can also affect how white paint colors appear in your kitchen. Test paint samples under both natural and artificial lighting conditions to see how they look throughout the day. Pay attention to the type of lighting fixtures you have (e.g., warm-toned incandescent bulbs or cooler LED bulbs) and how they influence the paint color. If you think you have found the best Behr white for your kitchen cabinets but it looks better under certain light, consider changing the bulbs in that room.

Take Into Account the Existing Color Scheme

Take into account the colors of your countertops, backsplash, flooring and appliances. A white with complementary undertones can tie these elements together cohesively. For example, if you have warm-toned countertops, a warmer white might harmonize better than a cool white. LRV can also give you an indication of whether a white paint color leans towards warm or cool tones. Whites with lower LRVs often have warmer undertones, while whites with higher LRVs may lean cooler.

Do Sample Testing

Test the paint samples to accurately determine which shade is the best Behr white for your kitchen cabinets. Paint small sections of your cabinets with different shades of white and observe how they look throughout the day under various lighting conditions. This will help you see how each shade interacts with your cabinet material, lighting, and existing color scheme.

Go off Your Personal Preference

It is your space so your personal preference plays ultimately is how to find the best shade of white. Some people prefer bright, cool tones whites as cooler whites can lend a modern and crisp aesthetic. Others prefer softer, warm tones as warmer whites can evoke a cozy and inviting feel. Consider what mood and atmosphere you want to create in your kitchen and choose a white that aligns with that vision.

By considering these factors and taking the time to test paint samples, you can determine which shade of white will best complement your kitchen and achieve the desired look and feel.

Popular Behr White Paint Colors for Kitchen Cabinets

Choosing the best Behr white paint color for kitchen cabinets depends on various factors, including your kitchen’s style, lighting and personal preferences. Behr offers a range of white paint colors, and some popular options for kitchen cabinets include:

Ultra Pure White (PPG1025-2): This is a classic and widely used pure white that works well in modern and traditional kitchens. It’s a crisp and clean choice that can brighten up the space. It’s a good choice if you want a fresh, modern look.

Swiss Coffee (PPG1075-1): This shade is considered the best Behr white for kitchen cabinets to many and is one of the company’s most popular whites. It’s a warm white with a slight beige undertone. It works well in kitchens with both warm and cool color schemes, providing a versatile and timeless look. Or you may find it pairs well with various wood tones and other neutral colors.

Polar Bear (PPG1025-3): This is a soft and neutral white with a hint of warmth. It’s a great choice if you want a white that doesn’t feel too stark but still adds brightness to the kitchen. It leans more on the cozy side that will make entering the kitchen feel like home, sweet home.

Silky White (PPU7-12): A soft and creamy white that can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in the kitchen. It pairs well with various cabinet styles and countertops. “Echoing the contentment of sinking into a cozy bed on a chilly eve, Silky White is rooted in warmth and comfort, while embracing modernistic cool,” Behr wrote.

Bit of Sugar (PPU7-24): This is a neutral-toned white that leans slightly more cool with a hint of gray. It can add a modern and sophisticated touch to your kitchen cabinets while also having enough warmth to add the home feel to the space. It is one of the shades you could consider the best Behr white for kitchen cabinets for those that want that perfect white in between tones.

There are many other Behr white shades you should also consider. Before making a final decision, you should again test the paint colors in your kitchen under different lighting conditions. Paint can appear different based on natural and artificial lighting, so consider getting samples and applying them to a small area to see how they look throughout the day.