Universal Umber

Technical Profile

What color is Universal Umber? It's a medium warm brown with the hex code #9C866F. Colors similar to Universal Umber include Behr Toffee Crunch, MPC Desert Sand Met., Behr Collectible. Comparing swatches side by side is the best way to spot the subtle differences that distinguish these close color relatives. Universal Umber has a neutral undertone, which affects how it pairs with trim, flooring, and adjacent wall colors. Understanding a color's undertone is key to avoiding combinations that clash — it often matters more than the surface color itself. Universal Umber (#9C866F) by Valspar is a medium brown paint color with a gentle, subdued character. It delivers a versatile mid-tone depth that anchors a room without overwhelming it. On the temperature spectrum this shade leans toward warmth, adding coziness and inviting energy. In its RGB breakdown, red is the dominant channel, which gives it a subtle rosy warmth even under different lighting conditions. A Light Reflectance Value of 54 gives it moderate light reflection, striking a balance between brightness and depth. A mid-tone neutral at this depth adds sophisticated warmth or coolness to living rooms, bedrooms, and transitional hallways, grounding the space without closing it in. A satin or eggshell finish brings out the richness at this depth, and the slight sheen makes walls easier to maintain. For color coordination, Universal Umber pairs beautifully with blue tones for bold complementary contrast, or with neighboring yellow and red hues for a harmonious, flowing palette. Its neutral undertone means trim and ceiling whites should lean neutral to avoid a jarring clash. If Valspar is unavailable in your area, close cross-brand alternatives exist from Behr, MPC, Kilz and others. In terms of mood and atmosphere, Universal Umber strikes a cozy, amber-toned balance that feels like late-afternoon light filtering through linen curtains. Designers often reach for shades like this when the goal is to shape how a room feels, not just how it looks. This shade is a natural fit for a wide range of interior design styles. As part of the Valspar palette, Universal Umber benefits from a curated selection of coordinating colors that the brand recommends for trim, accent, and ceiling pairings. As with any paint color, Universal Umber can shift noticeably between natural daylight, warm incandescent, and cool LED lighting — testing a sample swatch on your wall under different conditions is always recommended. Mid-tone shades like this look best when balanced with a mix of textures — think leather seating, brushed brass hardware, woven wool, and raw-edge wood. You can order Universal Umber (3003-9B) directly from Valspar or through major paint retailers, and we recommend purchasing a peel-and-stick sample to preview it on your wall before buying gallons.