Paint Colors for a Nursery

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I wouldn’t know off hand but I can imagine picking the perfect nursery color is like choosing a name for a baby. It feels monumental and a bit terrifing. You want something timeless, calming, and not something you’ll regret when you’re sleep-deprived and stepping on your tenth rogue pacifier of the night. And if you’re looking for a gender-neutral option, congratulations—you’ve just unlocked the easiest way to future-proof your nursery.

Gender-neutral nurseries aren’t just about aesthetics . Sure you want it to look perfect but there’s a few more benefits of having neutral walls. It creates a space that feels serene and welcoming without being overly tied to traditional pinks or blues. And let’s be honest, babies don’t care about color theory, but you do. So let’s dive into the best gender-neutral paint colors that will keep your nursery looking effortlessly chic (and won’t make you cringe in five years).

Why Choose a Gender-Neutral Color for a Nursery?

Opting for a gender-neutral nursery isn’t just about avoiding pink or blue—it’s about creating a timeless, versatile space that grows with your child. Here’s why it’s a smart choice:

Future-Proofing the Space

Babies don’t stay babies forever (as much as we wish they would). Choosing a neutral color means the nursery can easily transition into a toddler’s room, a study space, or even a guest room down the road without requiring a full-blown repainting session. It’s a choice that saves both time and money in the long run.

Encouraging a Calming Atmosphere

Soft neutrals, greens, blues, and warm whites promote a sense of calm. Since sleep is a precious commodity for both babies and parents, having a space that fosters relaxation is a win-win. Bright, overly saturated colors can be stimulating—great for play areas but not ideal for a nursery where rest is the priority.

Allowing for More Decor Flexibility

A gender-neutral base lets you play around with accessories, furniture, and textiles in creative ways. Want to add whimsical woodland creatures? Go for it. A neutral backdrop means you’re not locked into a specific color scheme. It makes it easy to swap out accents as your child’s personality emerges and as they grow.

Breaking Away from Gender Stereotypes

Color doesn’t define a child’s identity, so why should nursery colors be limited to outdated notions of pink for girls and blue for boys? A gender-neutral space allows children to develop their own preferences without pre-set societal expectations.

Better Resale Value

If you ever plan to sell your home, a nursery painted in neutral tones is more appealing to potential buyers. It’s easier for them to envision the room’s possibilities without being turned off by a highly specific or bold color choice.

Now that we’ve covered why gender-neutral colors are a great choice, let’s dive into the best ones that will keep your nursery looking effortlessly chic.

THE BEST GENDER NEUTRAL PAINT COLORS FOR A NURSERY

Warm Whites: Cozy Without Being Sterile

If you thought white was boring, let me introduce you to its cooler (but actually warmer) cousin: off-white. Unlike the sterile hospital-wall white, warm whites have depth, making a nursery feel soft and inviting.

Best Picks:

• Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee – A creamy, inviting white with just enough warmth to avoid looking stark.
• Sherwin Williams Alabaster – The gold standard of warm whites. Soft, subtle, and ridiculously easy to pair with any decor.
• Behr Swiss Coffee – Slightly warmer than BM’s version, but just as dreamy.

Pro Tip: Stick to whites with a warm or neutral undertone to prevent your nursery from looking like a futuristic lab.

Greige: The Best of Both Worlds

If beige and gray had a baby, it would be greige—arguably the MVP of gender-neutral paint colors. It’s sophisticated, timeless, and pairs beautifully with wood tones and soft pastels.

Best Picks:

• Sherwin Williams Accessible Beige – Warm, cozy, and perfect for those who want a hint of color without going full-on taupe.
• Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter – A little moodier but still warm and versatile.
• Behr Silver Drop – A soft, airy greige that shifts with the light.

Pro Tip: Greige works exceptionally well if you plan to mix wood tones or go for a Scandinavian-inspired nursery.

Soft Greens: The Color of Serenity

There’s a reason so many hospitals, spas, and wellness centers use green—it’s calming. And considering how many sleepless nights are ahead, you’ll want all the help you can get.

Best Picks:

• Sherwin Williams Sea Salt – A gentle green with a hint of blue, making it feel airy and peaceful.
• Benjamin Moore Saybrook Sage – The perfect muted sage green that works beautifully with wood and white accents.
• Farrow & Ball Mizzle – A misty green-gray that adds just enough color without overwhelming the space.

Pro Tip: Pair soft greens with natural materials like wicker, rattan, or warm wood furniture to make the space feel even cozier.

Don’t start painting until you have the right tools!

SHOP MUST HAVE PAINTING TOOLS

Why Sampling Your Paint Colors is Important

Paint can be tricky. A color that looks perfect in a tiny paint chip at the store can look completely different once it’s on your walls. Lighting, room size, and even the time of day can affect how a paint color appears.

This is why sampling your paint colors before committing is an absolute must. It saves you from costly mistakes and second-guessing your choices.

Final Thoughts: Which Color Is Best for You?

At the end of the day, the best nursery color is the one that makes you feel at peace. You have a new baby for goodness sake! Peace is one of those things you will need any chance you get.

Whether you go for warm whites, cozy greiges, or soothing greens, the key is to choose something that feels timeless and works with your overall vision. And remember the absolute best part, paint isn’t permanent. If in five years your kid insists on neon orange walls, well… that’s future-you’s problem. Young Cate opted for dark purple walls. Sorry mom and dad.

Now, grab those Samplize paint swatches, test them in different lighting, and get that nursery ready. Because before you know it, you’ll be rocking a baby to sleep in the most beautifully painted room in the house. And maybe, just maybe, you’ll get a full night’s sleep one day. Fingers crossed!

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