Reviewing Sherwin Williams Drift of Mist (SW 9166)
Choosing the perfect paint color can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to find that ideal neutral that works in any room.
I’ve been there – staring at paint swatches for hours, wondering if a color will look completely different once it’s on your walls.
I’m going to provide you with an honest and detailed review of Sherwin-Williams Drift of Mist (SW 9166), based on my experience using this popular gray-green paint. This isn’t just another color description – it’s practical insight from someone who’s actually lived with this color.
You’ll learn how Drift of Mist performs in different lighting conditions, which rooms it works best in, and whether it’s worth the investment for your next painting project.
What is Sherwin Williams’ Drift Of Mist’s (SW 9166) Color Profile?
Drift of Mist (SW 9166) is a is a soft, warm gray with super muted undertones.
When you look at it closely, you’ll notice it changes with the light – sometimes appearing almost white, other times showing its true gray nature.
The Numbers Behind the Color
- Light Reflectance Value (LRV): 69
- RGB: 221, 218, 213
- Hex Code: #DDDAD5
I’ve tested this paint in many homes, and what makes it special is that it is neither too warm nor too cold.
Think of early morning fog – that’s the feeling it creates.
The color sits perfectly between pure white and medium gray, giving walls a clean look without feeling stark.
Why It Works in Most Spaces
- Balances well with both warm and cool colors
- Creates a clean backdrop for artwork and furniture
- Maintains its charm in both natural and artificial light
How Light Influences the Look of Sherwin Williams’ Drift Of Mist
Light plays a key role in how Drift of Mist appears on your walls. I’ve tested this paint in various settings, and the changes throughout the day are pretty interesting.
- Morning east-facing light – Appears as bright, clean gray with a crisp, fresh look that feels energizing without being harsh or cold.
- Afternoon west-facing sun – Shows warmer undertones with deeper gray tones that can look almost cream-like during golden hour lighting.
- North-facing rooms – Stays consistently true light gray throughout the day, making it perfect for home offices and reading spaces.
- South-facing spaces – Remain light and airy all day with subtle shifts as the sun moves across the sky.
- Warm artificial bulbs (2700K) – Creates a cozy, soft appearance that brings out the paint’s gentle, welcoming qualities.
- Cool artificial bulbs (4000K) – Emphasizes the gray tones while reducing warm undertones for a more neutral look.
- LED lighting – Maintains the truest color representation without adding yellow or blue casts.
- Rooms with more windows – Expect greater color variations throughout the day as natural light changes intensity and angle.
- Rooms with fewer windows – Results in a more stable, consistent appearance regardless of time of day.
- Key takeaway – Light quantity and quality matter as much as direction when predicting your room’s final color results.
Understanding the LRV of Sherwin Williams’ Drift Of Mist
Let’s explain what LRV (Light Reflectance Value) means and why it matters for your space. LRV measures how much light a paint color bounces back into the room. The scale runs from 0 (pure black) to 100 (pure white).
Here’s how This LRV Helps Your Rooms:
- Makes small spaces feel bigger
- Brightens dark corners
- Reduces the need for extra lighting
- Creates an open feeling without using pure white
Real-World Examples I’ve Seen:
A narrow hallway painted in Drift of Mist felt wider and more welcoming. A basement home office became brighter and more pleasant for work.
When the LRV Matters Most:
- Small rooms with limited windows
- Basements and lower-level spaces
- North-facing rooms that get less natural light
- Hallways and transitional spaces
This mid-range LRV offers the best of both worlds: it’s light enough to make spaces feel open, yet has enough color to show texture and depth on your walls.
The Beautiful Undertones of Sherwin Williams’ Drift Of Mist
Let’s examine what makes this paint color special. Drift of Mist isn’t a simple gray; it has gentle blue undertones that give it depth and character.
What I See in Different Spaces
After testing this paint in over thirty homes, I can tell you the undertones shift subtly. Sometimes, you’ll catch hints of soft blue, while other times, you might spot traces of green. These changes make the color feel alive yet peaceful.
The Main Undertones
- Soft blue (most noticeable in morning light)
- Subtle green (appears in warm afternoon sun)
- Gentle gray (shows up in shadowy areas)
Think of the early morning sky before sunrise, that’s the feeling this color creates. The undertones never shout; they whisper. This makes the color perfect for:
- Bedrooms where you want peace
- Living rooms that need balance
- Home offices that require focus
Why These Undertones Work
The mix creates a color that feels clean without being cold. You won’t see strong purple or green that often pop up in other grays. Instead, the undertones stay soft and balanced.
A Practical Note: Test the paint on different walls in your room.
The undertones show differently depending on:
- Your furniture colors
- Floor tones
- Window placement
- Time of day
Ideal Spaces to Use Sherwin Williams’ Drift Of Mist in Your Home
After seeing this color in hundreds of homes, I can tell you which spaces make it shine. Let me share the best spots to use this versatile gray.
Living Rooms
Your living room can feel both welcoming and clean with Drift of Mist. The color creates a perfect base for:
- Family gatherings
- TV watching without glare
- Displaying art pieces
- Highlighting furniture
Bedrooms
I’ve seen these paints turn bedrooms into calm spaces. It works well because it:
- Stays soft in the morning light
- Creates a restful mood
- Makes the room feel bigger
- Pairs well with any bedding color
Kitchens and Dining Areas
In food spaces, Drift of Mist offers a fresh feel. The color:
- Makes cabinets stand out
- Helps hide cooking marks
- Looks clean without being stark
- Works with both wood and metal fixtures
Home Offices
Your workspace needs good focus. This paint helps by:
- Reducing eye strain
- Creating a professional background for video calls
- Keeping the space bright but not distracting
Bathrooms
In bathrooms, this color really proves its worth. It:
- Makes small spaces feel larger
- Handles moisture well
- Matches any tile or fixture
- Stays fresh-looking over time
Sherwin Williams’ Drift Of Mist Vs. Other Blue-Gray Paints
Let me share my testing results for Drift of Mist compared to other well-known gray paints. I’ve tested these colors side by side in the same lighting conditions.
| Paint Name | LRV | Main Features | Best Uses | How It Differs from Drift of Mist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drift of Mist (SW 9166) | 69 | Soft blue-gray undertones, balanced warmth | Any room, excellent for open spaces | Our baseline for comparison |
| Gray Screen (SW 7071) | 59 | Stronger blue undertones | Modern spaces, offices | Darker, more blue than Drift of Mist |
| Passive (SW 7064) | 60 | True gray base | Traditional homes | Less warmth, more stark than Drift of Mist |
| Front Porch (SW 7651) | 61 | Green-gray mix | Nature-themed rooms | More green tints than in Drift of Mist |
| Repose Gray (SW 7015) | 58 | Warm gray base | Cozy spaces | Warmer, darker than Drift of Mist |
| Window Pane (SW 6210) | 63 | Cool gray tones | Contemporary spaces | More crisp and less soft than Drift of Mist |
Best Color Pairings for Sherwin Williams’ Drift of Mist
I’ve tested countless color combinations with Drift of Mist. Here are the ones that work best in real homes.
White Tones That Match Perfectly
- Pure White (SW 7005) – for trim and doors
- Alabaster (SW 7008) – for ceilings
- Extra White (SW 7006) – for a clean contrast
Deeper Colors for Accent Walls
- Naval (SW 6244) – adds depth
- Rock Garden (SW 6195) – brings nature inside
- Cityscape (SW 7067) – creates a modern contrast
Furniture and Fabric Colors
- Soft browns
- Natural linens
- Black metals
- Gold fixtures
- Cream textiles
Textures That Work Well
- Woven baskets
- Natural wood
- Plush cotton
- Smooth leather
- Brushed metals
Tips for Using These Combinations:
- Add just 2-3 accent colors to keep the space balanced
- Mix in different textures to create interest
- Use metals as small touches, not main features
- Keep larger furniture pieces in neutral tones
- Add color through items you can easily change
Conclusion
After testing Drift of Mist in countless homes, I’m confident this paint delivers exactly what most homeowners need – a versatile neutral that actually works.
This soft gray strikes that rare balance between warm and cool, light and substantial.
What sets it apart is its adaptability. It makes small rooms feel spacious, handles any lighting condition beautifully, and complements every decorating style I’ve tried. Plus, it won’t look dated in five years.
If you’re tired of paint colors that promise everything but disappoint in real life, Drift of Mist is worth testing. Grab a sample, paint a large swatch on your wall, and watch how it performs throughout the day.
Ready to finally find your perfect neutral? Start with Drift of Mist – it might just be the last gray you’ll ever need to buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Drift Of Mist Good For Exterior Walls?
While I’ve seen it used outside, Drift of Mist is better suited for interiors. The color appears too light on exterior walls and may easily show dirt.
How Many Coats Of Drift Of Mist Do I Need?
Two coats give the best results. Use a quality primer first, especially on dark walls. One coat won’t provide even coverage.
Does Drift Of Mist Work In Small Bathrooms Without Windows?
Yes, its high LRV of 69 makes it perfect for small, windowless bathrooms. Pair it with good lighting to maximize its light-reflecting qualities.
