We adore a crisp white, soft gray, or clean beige. What happens when you add nuance, depth, or intensity? 

We’ll tell you all about it. Today, we’re answering the question, what are dirty neutrals? Hint: it’s the perfect balance between timeless neutrals and trending earth tones.

What are dirty neutrals?

Dirty neutrals inject more mood into beige, white, gray, and earth tones. They allow designers to leverage the sophistication and wide appeal of these shades while adding more complexity and personality. 

Dirtiness is a spectrum here. One option is a pale, creamy latte, while another is a deep, mottled mushroom. Even shades of olive, cognac, and rust appear in dirty neutral palettes.

A great example of a dramatic dirty neutral is Benjamin Moore’s Silhouette, a charcoal umber they selected as 2026’s Color of the Year. 

How can I tell if a color is a dirty neutral?

Dirty neutrals will look muted, matte, and even muddy. When you examine them closely, you’ll find hints of other unexpected colors. Think of a purplish tinge to a deep gray or a hint of brown toning down a dusty peach. 

Why are they popular?

People are enjoying dirty neutrals so much right now because they’re a grounded, earthy way to make a room feel chic and lived in. Most dirty neutrals feel both organic and stylish. Naturally effortless, but put together. 

Overall, it’s a concept that can add a touch of character and personalization to a room–an in-demand design trend for 2026.

Where should I use dirty neutrals?

You can use dirty neutral paint in any room since the spectrum of drama and intensity is so wide. Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter, for instance, is the type of muddy neutral that translates well without much fuss. 

Many dirty neutrals also complement natural materials. They’re truly at their best next to wood, stone, and tile.

Dirty neutrals perfect for your kitchen or bath remodel 

If you’re looking to add unforgettable atmosphere to your next project, here are a few shades and uses to explore. 

Cracked Pepper

Sherwin-Williams Cracked Pepper is a mystery wrapped in an enigma. Depending on the application, it appears like velvety dark chocolate or fine, textural leather. If you want your dirty neutral ultra-complex and mega-dramatic, swatch this one.

Where to try it: The upper wall of your half-tiled bath.

Creamy Mushroom

Behr’s Creamy Mushroom is an easy introduction to dirty neutrals. If you love your taupe and off-whites but want to get into the earthier looks trending now, here’s your prime candidate.

Where to try it: Cozy up your kitchen by coating the walls in Creamy Mushroom. It pairs warmly with a variety of speckled granite countertops.

Elemental

This may be as close as green gets to neutral. Elemental by Benjamin Moore is a muted, gray-tinged earthen green that’s grounded and serene. A must for anyone remodeling in biophilic or organic modern style.

Where to try it: Any room where it can complement dark, polished wood. Also worth swatching as a cabinet paint for a two-toned kitchen. 

Add dirty neutrals to your design vision when you consult with a pro. 

Do you have questions about utilizing dirty neutrals in your remodel? The Designery has answers. We’re your local experts specializing in:

Contact us for a free consultation. We’ll help complete and execute your kitchen, bath, or closet remodel with all of the timeless finishes and personal touches you’re looking for. 

“I am so glad we found The Designery to help us with our renovation needs. I was very impressed with the quality of cabinets and countertops available.”

–Esther, Designery client