How to remove a background color in Google Docs

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Like other word processors, Google Docs uses white as its default background color. However, thanks to the wide range of customization features, the program leaves you free to play with different tones and background colors. Plus, if you change your mind during the process, you can always blank it again.

Since there are two versions of the word processor (an online tool and an app for iOS and Android devices), we’ve included steps for both. The user interface is equally responsive in both cases and comes with the same features. The only drawback is that you can’t change the background of a single page; Any changes you make will affect every page of the document. However, there is a way to avoid this problem and we have included instructions for this in one of the sections.

How to remove the background color in Google Docs in a computer

Let’s start by changing the background color in Google Docs. If the shade you have chosen is too dark, the text may be difficult to read. Alternatively, you may not like the overall look of the document with the added color. Either way, you can revert the settings to the default white background.

So, here’s how to do it with the web-based version:

1. First, make sure you’re signed in to your Google account when you access Google Drive. Then open an existing document or create a new one by clicking the “+” icon in the upper right corner.
   
2. In the toolbar at the top of the document, click the “File” tab to access a drop-down menu. From the list of functions, select “Page Setup.”
   
3. A pop-up box will appear. Expand the “Page Color” drop-down menu and set the background to white.
   
4. Once you’re done, click “OK” to apply the changes.
   

How to remove the background color in Google Docs on an Android or iPhone

As mentioned, you can use the mobile app to edit the document on the go. Since the iOS and Android versions share the same interface, the following steps apply in both cases. So, here’s how to change the background color in Google Docs using your mobile device:

1. Launch the Google Docs app and select the document you want to edit.
   
2. Tap the pencil icon at the bottom right to edit the document, then tap the three vertical dots in the top right corner of the screen.
   
3. A pop-up panel will appear. Choose “Page Setup” from the list of options.
   
4. You will be redirected to a new window. Select “Page Color” to customize the background.
   
5. Swipe the color palette to find white, then select it.
   

How to change the background color in Google Docs

While a white background is considered standard, adding a pop of color to your document can make it more attractive. If you use Google Docs to create promotional materials such as flyers or brochures, the feature can help you achieve a stunning visual effect. In addition to providing a perse color palette, Google Docs also allows you to set a custom color background. Here’s how to do it with the online tool:

1. Go to your Google Drive and open the Google Docs file you want to edit.
   
2. Click the “File” tab at the top of the page.
   
3. In the drop-down panel, select “Page Setup.”
   
4. In the pop-up box, expand the “Page Color” menu. Then choose a shade from the palette.
   
5. If you want to create a custom color, click the small plus button at the bottom of the color selection panel. Move the slider at the bottom of the panel and choose a color. Then determine the tone with the cursor.
   
6. Once you’re done, click “OK.”
   

And here’s how to change the background with the mobile app:

1. Tap the Google Docs icon to launch the app.
2. Next, open the document. In the upper right corner of the screen, tap the three vertical dots.
   
3. From the drop-down list, open “Page Setup.”
   
4. Go to “Page Color” and choose a background color from the palette. Below you will see different color shades, so tap the one you like the most.
   

Depending on the shade chosen, the standard black color of the text may become less visible. If that’s the case, you can adjust the color of the letters while keeping the new background. This is what you should do:

1. Highlight the text with the cursor or hold down “CTRL + A” to select it.
2. Click on the colored text icon (the letter “A” with a colored thread underneath).
3. Choose a color from the dropdown panel.

How to make the page a different color in Google Docs

Unfortunately, you can’t change the background of a single page in Google Docs. The customization function is limited in that sense. There is an alternative solution, although slightly different to changing the color of an entire page. You can change the background color of paragraphs and make the text stand out even more. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the Google Docs file from your Drive.
   
2. In the toolbar above the document, click “Format.”
   
3. From the drop-down list, select “Paragraph Styles” and then go to “Borders and Shading.”
   
4. A new panel will appear. Expand the drop-down menu in the “Background Color” section.
   
5. Choose a shade from the color picker. If you want to create a custom color, click the small plus (+) button at the bottom of the panel.
   
6. Finally, click “Apply” to save the changes.
   

Since this will only change the background of the paragraph, the color will not extend to the entire page. If you are okay with the white bars on the sides of the screen, try this method.

Additional FAQs

Will my pages print with the background color I choose?

Other word processing programs, such as Microsoft Word, have trouble printing documents with unorthodox background colors. Fortunately, that’s not a problem with Google Docs. The printed file will have the same background color as the digital document.

However, prints don’t always match the on-screen version, especially when it comes to coloring. If you are not satisfied with the result of the document, there are several possible solutions. First, you can calibrate the color of your computer screen to more closely match the output color. Windows PCs have a built-in tool that you can use to do just that. That is how:

1. Use the search bar in the lower left corner of the screen to find the tool. Type “color calibration” or “calibrate display color” in the dialog box.

2. From there, follow the on-screen instructions for optimal color calibration.

Sometimes the dull color is caused by the printer. You may also want to calibrate the device. Typically, you can get the latest software from the manufacturer’s website, but that depends on the brand. It is best to contact customer service for detailed instructions.

Lastly, you may have low-quality copier paper. While the standard type may work for text files, it may be insufficient if you have visual elements such as background colors or images. Consider using bright white paper if your printer supports it.

Add a touch of color to your documents

With Google Docs, you are free to customize your document however you want. You can set the default or custom color as the page background and then remove it if it doesn’t look so good. The comprehensive toolbar is very easy to navigate, allowing you to edit the file with multiple devices.

Unfortunately, as of now, it is impossible to only change the background of a single Google Docs page. A possible solution is to reset the background of inpidual paragraphs. However, the result is a little less complete. The good news is that if you decide to add a touch of color to your document, you won’t have any problems printing it.

Is Google Docs your preferred online word processor? How much time do you spend customizing your documents? Let us know in the comments section below if there is another way to change the background color of a single page.