Changing the background of a Word document to white is a simple task that can make your text more readable and professional-looking. To do this, you’ll need to navigate through the Word interface to access the Page Color options. This tutorial will guide you through the process step-by-step, ensuring that your document looks clean and consistent.
How to Change Word Background to White
Changing the background color of your Word document to white ensures that your text stands out and looks neat. Follow these steps to achieve a crisp, white background for your Word document.
Step 1: Open Microsoft Word
First, open Microsoft Word on your computer. You can do this by clicking on the Word icon on your desktop or through your start menu.
Once Word is open, either create a new document or open an existing one that you’d like to modify.
Step 2: Navigate to the "Design" Tab
Next, look at the top of your Word window. You’ll see a series of tabs such as "Home," "Insert," "Draw," and "Design." Click on the "Design" tab.
The "Design" tab provides various options for customizing the look of your document, including themes, colors, and background settings.
Step 3: Click on "Page Color"
Within the "Design" tab, find the "Page Color" button. It’s usually shaped like a paint bucket and is located towards the right side of the toolbar.
Clicking on "Page Color" will open a dropdown menu with a selection of colors to choose from.
Step 4: Select the Color White
From the dropdown menu, simply select the color white. If you don’t see it immediately, look for a small box or section labeled "Standard Colors" or "Theme Colors."
Once you click on the white color, your document background will instantly change to white.
Step 5: Save Your Document
Lastly, don’t forget to save your changes. Click on the "File" tab, then "Save" or "Save As" to preserve your newly updated document.
Saving ensures that your background remains white the next time you open the document.
After completing these steps, your Word document’s background will be white, making your text more readable and professional.
Tips for Changing Word Background to White
- Double-check the "Design" tab to ensure you’re in the right place.
- If your document has colored sections or images, changing the background color won’t affect them.
- Use "Print Preview" to see how your document will look when printed.
- Consider your audience; a white background is generally the most readable.
- If you frequently change background colors, you might want to create a custom theme for quicker access.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I change the background color of only one page?
Unfortunately, Word doesn’t support changing the background color of just one page. Background color changes apply to the entire document.
Can I change the background color on Word Mobile?
Yes, you can change the background color in the Word mobile app by going to the "Layout" tab and selecting "Page Color."
Does changing the background color affect printing?
No, changing the background color in Word does not affect the print background unless you specifically enable background printing in print settings.
What if I can’t find the "Page Color" option?
Make sure you’re in the "Design" tab. If it’s still not visible, you might need to update your version of Word.
Can I set a default background color for all new documents?
Yes, you can create a template with your preferred background color and use it for all new documents.
Summary
- Open Microsoft Word.
- Navigate to the "Design" tab.
- Click on "Page Color."
- Select the color white.
- Save your document.
Conclusion
Changing the background to white in Word is an easy way to ensure your text stands out. By following these simple steps, you can quickly update your document’s appearance, making it more professional and easier to read. Taking the time to learn these small but impactful changes can significantly improve your document’s quality. If you want to explore more customization options, Word offers a wide range of features that can help you create visually appealing and effective documents. Happy writing!

Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.