A custom background color is useful when the standard Google Slides palette does not contain the exact shade required by a design specification. Entering a known value is more repeatable than repeatedly choosing an approximate color by eye. Confirm whether the change belongs to one slide or the theme.
Open the custom color controls
On a computer, select the slide and choose Slide > Change background. Open the color menu and use the custom color option. Google’s background guidance describes controls for a hexadecimal color value and adjustments such as hue and transparency.
Use the specification accurately
Enter the approved value when one is available. Check every character, including repeated letters or digits, before applying it. If you adjust the color interactively, retain the final value so another editor can reproduce the result without guessing.
Choose Done for the current slide or Add to theme when the color should become part of the presentation’s theme. Do not use the wider operation solely because its label appears more permanent.
Check the complete combination
Review text, charts, and images against the new background in slideshow view. An approved brand color may still be unsuitable behind a particular text color or a detailed illustration. Check small labels and slide numbers as well as the large heading. If transparency or another adjustment affects the appearance, verify the final result rather than assuming that a hexadecimal value alone describes the whole visible design. Save the chosen value alongside the design decision for future maintenance.
References
- Use a Template or change the theme, background, or layout in Google Slides
- Change the color of text, objects, and backgrounds
Reviewed against the linked official product guidance on November 3, 2026. Features, limits, screen labels, and access can vary by account, platform, region, and organization policy.