Home Improvement Payoff
December 15, 2025 | Suzanne Powers

Best White Trim Colors

This guide breaks down the most popular designer-approved white paint colors for interior trim, doors, and cabinets, including top picks from Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore. It also explains why satin and semi-gloss are the go-to sheens for trim, and how each one affects durability and overall look.

Top White Trim Colors

For interior trim, the most popular whites are clean but slightly softened (not stark), and the preferred sheen is usually satin or semi‑gloss for durability and a crisp, finished look. 

These are designer and builder go to whites for trim, doors, and cabinets.
  • Sherwin-Williams Extra White (SW 7006) – Bright, cool, very crisp; a standard “default” contractor trim white that pairs well with most wall colors and reads fresh. ​
  • Sherwin-Williams Pure White (SW 7005) – Soft, versatile white with a tiny bit of warmth; extremely popular because it works with both warm and cool palettes. ​
  • Sherwin-Williams Alabaster (SW 7008) – Warm, creamy off‑white that’s beautiful for more traditional or cozy spaces and woodwork. ​
  • Benjamin Moore White Dove (OC-17) – A soft, warm white designers love for trim, especially with greige or warmer wall colors. ​
  • Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace (OC-65) – Very bright, neutral white with minimal undertones, ideal when you want ultra‑crisp trim. ​
  • Benjamin Moore Decorator’s White (OC-149) – Clean white with a touch of gray, good when you want a softer, modern white that isn’t stark. ​
Recommended Sheen For Trim
  • Interior trim (doors, casings, baseboards):
    • Satin or semi‑gloss are the top choices because they resist scuffs, wipe clean easily, and highlight the architecture. ​
    • Satin gives a softer, more current look and hides imperfections better, which many designers now prefer. ​
    • Semi‑gloss offers more shine and a very polished, traditional look but can show flaws more. ​

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