Blue 06 vs Blue 18: Choosing the Right Shade
By Designer Home Interiors - Designer Paint & Wallpaper | Lick | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: Comparisons
Compare Lick's Blue 06 and Blue 18 to find the perfect blue for your walls. Learn how undertones and finishes affect the mood of your space.
Quick Answer
Choose Blue 06 for a calm, cool blue with a paper-like matt finish that hides imperfections, or Blue 18 for a vibrant, energetic blue-grey that makes a bold statement. Your choice depends on the mood you want and the finish you need.
Undertones Set the Mood
Blue 06 is described as 'as cool as a cucumber' with a dot of white to lift it. This makes it a soft, airy blue that feels calm and refreshing—ideal for spaces where you want to relax, like bedrooms or reading nooks.
Blue 18, on the other hand, is a vibrant blue grey with strong, energetic character. The grey undertones keep it modern and classy, so it feels more dynamic and confident. It works well in living areas or home offices where you want a bit of energy.
The difference in undertone is the main factor in your decision: if you want a tranquil, soothing blue, go with Blue 06; if you want a bold, contemporary blue-grey, Blue 18 is your pick.
Finish Affects Practicality
Blue 06 is available in a paper-like matt finish that helps mask and smooth imperfections on your walls. This makes it a great choice for older walls or rooms with minor blemishes you don't want to highlight.
Blue 18 is offered in both matt and eggshell finishes. Eggshell provides a subtle sheen that is more durable and easier to clean, making it suitable for high-traffic areas like hallways or kids' rooms.
If you need a washable surface, Blue 18 in eggshell is the better option. If you prioritize a flawless, matte look, Blue 06's matt finish is designed to hide flaws.
Blue 06 vs Blue 18: The Trade-offs
- Mood: Calm vs Energetic: Blue 06 is cool and soothing, while Blue 18 is vibrant and strong. Choose based on the atmosphere you want in the room. List the room's purpose first, then pick the shade that matches the mood.
- Finish: Matt vs Eggshell: Blue 06 offers a paper-like matt that hides imperfections. Blue 18 offers matt and eggshell, with eggshell being more durable and easier to clean. Consider wall condition and cleaning needs when selecting the finish.
- Lighting and Space: Blue 06's white lift brightens small or dim rooms, while Blue 18's grey undertones can make a large space feel more grounded and intimate. Test samples in your room's lighting before committing.
Product Facts
- Blue 06: Blue 06 is one step away from navy, as cool as a cucumber with a dot of white for lift. This soft, cool blue feels calm and airy, perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere.
Blue 06 - Blue 18: Blue 18 is a vibrant blue grey with strong, energetic character and grey undertones for a modern look. The energetic tone and grey base make it a bold yet classy choice for contemporary spaces.
Blue 18
Which Blue Fits You?
Best for
- Blue 06: Bedrooms, nurseries, or any space where you want a calm, airy feel and need to hide wall imperfections.
- Blue 18: Living rooms, home offices, or hallways where you want a vibrant, modern statement and need a durable, washable finish (eggshell).
Not for
- Blue 06: High-traffic areas that need frequent cleaning, as the matt finish is less scrubbable.
- Blue 18: Small, low-light rooms where the grey undertones might make the space feel darker; consider Blue 06 for a lighter touch.
