Category: Uncategorized

Why Should You Export Contact Form 7 Data?

Exporting form data allows you to:

• Store Data Safely: Ensure you have a backup of your form submissions.
• Analyze User Interactions: Analyze form submissions to improve customer service or marketing strategies.
• Follow Up with Leads: Use the exported data to follow up with potential clients or customers.
• Comply with Regulations: Ensure compliance with data retention regulations by keeping form submissions for a required period.

Method 1: Export Contact Form 7 Submissions Using the Flamingo Plugin

Flamingo is a plugin designed to store all form submissions made through Contact Form 7. It offers an easy-to-use interface for exporting form data in CSV format, making it the ideal choice for exporting form submissions.

Step 1: Install and Activate Flamingo

1. From your WordPress dashboard, go to Plugins > Add New.
2. Search for “Flamingo” in the search bar.
3. Click Install Now, and once the plugin is installed, click Activate.

Step 2: Configure Flamingo to Store Form Data

Once activated, Flamingo will automatically store all form submissions. You don’t need to configure it, just install and forget it.

Step 3: Export Form Data Using Flamingo

1. Go to Flamingo > Inbound Messages in your WordPress dashboard.
2. Here, you’ll find a list of all the form submissions.
3. Select the submissions you want to export.
4. Click Export at the top of the page. Flamingo will generate a CSV file with the selected form data.

Step 4: Download Your Exported CSV File

After exporting, you can download the CSV file and open it in Excel, Google Sheets, or any other spreadsheet software for further analysis or storage.

Method 2: Export Contact Form 7 Data Using Google Sheets Integration

For those who prefer an automated and real-time solution, integrating Google Sheets with Contact Form 7 is a great choice. This method allows you to send form data directly to Google Sheets, which you can then export whenever necessary.

Step 1: Install the Google Sheets Plugin for Contact Form 7

1. In your WordPress dashboard, go to Plugins > Add New.
2. Search for “Contact Form 7 to Google Sheets” and click Install Now.
3. After installation, click Activate.

Step 2: Set Up the Google Sheets Integration

1. Go to Contact Form 7 > Google Sheets in your dashboard.
2. Follow the setup instructions to authenticate your Google account and grant the plugin necessary permissions.
3. Create a new Google Sheet where your form data will be stored.

Step 3: Map Form Fields to Google Sheets Columns

1. After connecting to your Google Sheets account, map each form field (like Name, Email, and Message) to the corresponding columns in Google Sheets.
2. Save your settings to ensure the data flows properly.

Step 4: Export Data from Google Sheets

1. Once form data starts populating your Google Sheet, open the sheet.
2. Go to File > Download and choose the format you need (CSV, Excel, etc.).

This method ensures you have a live view of the data and the ability to export it whenever you need.

Method 3: Manual Export via Email Notifications

If you prefer a simple approach, you can receive form submissions directly in your inbox and manually export the data to a spreadsheet.

Step 1: Set Up Email Notifications in Contact Form 7

1. Go to Contact > Contact Forms in your WordPress dashboard.
2. Edit the form and go to the Mail tab.
3. Add the recipient email address where you want to receive the form submissions.
4. Customize the email body to include form fields such as [your-name], [your-email], and [your-message].

Step 2: Export Data Manually

Whenever a user submits a form, you will receive the data in your email inbox. You can then copy the information and paste it into a spreadsheet for further processing.

While this method lacks automation, it’s a good option for small websites with infrequent submissions.

Method 4: Using Third-Party Plugins for Exporting Data

There are several third-party plugins designed to give you more control and advanced features for exporting Contact Form 7 submissions. Here are two popular plugins:

1. Contact Form 7 Database Addon – CFDB7

CFDB7 saves all form submissions directly into your WordPress database, making it easy to export them as CSV files. It offers additional features like filtering and searching, allowing for more precise exports.

Step 1: Install and Activate CFDB7

1. Go to Plugins > Add New in your WordPress dashboard.
2. Search for “CFDB7” and click Install Now.
3. Once installed, click Activate.

Step 2: Export Form Submissions

1. After activating the plugin, go to CFDB7 > Entries in your dashboard.
2. Select the entries you want to export and click Export to generate a CSV file.

2. WPForms: Advanced Form Data Export Options

WPForms is another popular form plugin that allows for easy form creation and advanced export features. It has a user-friendly interface and includes built-in export functionality.

WPForms allows you to create forms and store submissions directly in your WordPress database, making it easier to export and manage your data. Here’s a more detailed look at exporting data using WPForms:

Step 1: Install WPForms Plugin

1. In your WordPress dashboard, go to Plugins > Add New.
2. Search for WPForms.
3. Click Install Now, then click Activate once the installation is complete.

Step 2: Create a Form with WPForms

1. Go to WPForms > Add New in your WordPress dashboard.
2. Select a form template or start with a blank form.
3. Add the necessary fields (e.g., Name, Email, Message).

Step 3: Collect Form Data

WPForms automatically stores form submissions in the WordPress database. You can view submissions by going to WPForms > Entries.

Step 4: Export Form Data

1. In the WPForms dashboard, navigate to Entries for the specific form you want to export.
2. You’ll see an option to filter submissions by date or specific fields.
3. Once the filters are set, click Export to generate a CSV file with the filtered form data.

WPForms makes it easy to export form submissions directly from your WordPress dashboard, and you can even automate the process of exporting data periodically using integrations with third-party tools like Zapier.

Additional Export Features with WPForms

• Scheduled Exports: WPForms allows you to schedule exports automatically to be sent to your email at regular intervals. This is perfect if you want to receive form data on a routine basis.
• Filters for Export: WPForms provides filters to export only specific types of submissions, such as submissions from a specific date range or form field value.
• Integrations: WPForms integrates with popular tools like Google Sheets, Mailchimp, and Salesforce, allowing you to automate the export process further.

FAQ: Common Questions About Exporting Contact Form 7 Data

How do I filter form submissions before exporting?

With the Flamingo plugin, you can filter submissions based on certain parameters, such as form field values or submission date, before exporting them. This helps when you only need a specific set of data.

Can I automate the export of Contact Form 7 submissions?

Yes, you can automate the export of submissions by using Google Sheets integration. With this method, form submissions are automatically added to Google Sheets in real-time, allowing you to export data at any time without manual intervention.

How do I export form submissions to a PDF?

While Contact Form 7 doesn’t support exporting directly to PDF, you can export form data to CSV or Google Sheets and then use external tools like Excel or Google Sheets to generate PDF reports.

Can I export Contact Form 7 submissions in bulk?

Yes, both Flamingo and CFDB7 allow you to export multiple submissions in bulk. This is particularly useful when you need to download a large set of data quickly.

How do I prevent data loss when exporting form submissions?

Make sure to regularly export your form submissions and back them up, especially if you’re dealing with sensitive information. Consider automating the process through Google Sheets to keep your data synced and secure.

Is there a way to export form submissions without using plugins?

While Contact Form 7 doesn’t offer an export feature by default, you can still export form data manually by setting up email notifications and copying the data from your inbox to a spreadsheet. However, this method can become time-consuming with high volumes of submissions.

Using a Two Column Layout for Contact Form 7 Forms

Two column layout offers several advantages:

• Enhanced User Experience: Displaying more fields on the screen at once improves the user experience by making the form appear less overwhelming.
• Improved Design and Structure: A 2-column layout helps achieve a neat, modern design that looks professional and visually balanced.
• Space Efficiency: This layout allows you to use the space on your page more efficiently without making your form appear too long or cluttered.
• Mobile-Friendly: A responsive layout ensures that your form adjusts to different screen sizes, maintaining an optimal user experience across devices.

Step 1: Setting Up Your Contact Form 7

Before applying any custom styling, create your form or modify an existing one in Contact Form 7:

1. Go to Contact > Contact Forms in your WordPress dashboard.
2. You can either click on an existing form to edit it or click Add New to create a new form.
3. For this example, let’s create a simple form with the following fields:

<label for="name">Name</label>
[text* name id:name]

<label for="email">Email</label>
[email* email id:email]

<label for="message">Message</label>
[textarea* message id:message]

Once your form is ready, we will move on to styling it with CSS.

Step 2: Customizing the Form with a 2-Column Layout Using CSS

The next step is to make your form fields appear in a 2-column layout. This can be easily achieved by adding some custom CSS. Follow these steps:

1. Navigate to Appearance > Customize in your WordPress admin panel.
2. Go to the Additional CSS section and add the following CSS code:

/* 2-column layout for Contact Form 7 */
.wpcf7-form .form-row {
    display: flex;
    flex-wrap: wrap;
    gap: 20px; /* Adds space between columns */
}

/* Style for form labels and fields */
.wpcf7-form .form-row label,
.wpcf7-form .form-row input,
.wpcf7-form .form-row textarea {
    width: 48%; /* Each form element will take up 48% of the container's width */
}

/* Full-width style for the textarea */
.wpcf7-form .form-row textarea {
    width: 100%;
}

/* Optional: Add some spacing between form rows */
.wpcf7-form p {
    margin-bottom: 20px;
}

Step 3: Organizing Form Fields into Rows

For the CSS above to work, you’ll need to wrap each group of fields you want to appear in the same row with a <div> tag and the class form-row. Here’s how to structure your form:

<div class="form-row">
    <label for="name">Name</label>
    [text* name id:name]
</div>

<div class="form-row">
    <label for="email">Email</label>
    [email* email id:email]
</div>

<div class="form-row">
    <label for="message">Message</label>
    [textarea* message id:message]
</div>

This ensures that each form field within a .form-row is displayed in the same row. The fields will be split into two columns according to the CSS.

Step 4: Preview and Test Your Form Layout

Once you’ve added the CSS and adjusted your form structure, it’s time to check how the form looks on your site:

1. Open the page where the form is embedded.
2. Refresh the page to view the updated 2-column layout.

Your form fields should now be neatly organized in two columns, providing a more efficient use of space and improving the overall look of your form.

Make Sure It’s Responsive on Mobile Devices

Responsive design is crucial for ensuring that your form looks great on all devices, especially smartphones and tablets. Fortunately, you can easily make the 2-column layout adapt to smaller screens by adding a media query to your CSS:

@media (max-width: 768px) {
    .wpcf7-form .form-row label,
    .wpcf7-form .form-row input,
    .wpcf7-form .form-row textarea {
        width: 100%; /* Stacks form fields vertically on smaller screens */
    }
}

This CSS rule ensures that when the screen size is smaller than 768px (which covers most smartphones), the form fields will stack vertically and take up the full width of the screen, making the form more user-friendly on mobile devices.

If you’re using GeneratePress and want to make only the homepage full-width without affecting the rest of your site, you can achieve this easily with a bit of custom CSS and built-in settings. No plugins required.

Why Make a Full-Width Homepage in GeneratePress?

A full-width layout allows your content to stretch across the entire screen, creating a modern, clean design often used for landing pages and portfolios.

Benefits of a Full-Width Homepage:

• Modern Look: Clean design with no sidebars or spacing.
• Better Focus: Ideal for hero sections, call-to-actions, and visuals.
• Consistent Branding: Great for homepages emphasizing minimalism.

✅ Making the homepage full-width while keeping inner pages contained balances style and readability.

Using GeneratePress Layout Settings

GeneratePress includes a built-in layout editor for easy full-width customization.

How to Set Full-Width for the Homepage:

1. Go to Pages > All Pages in your WordPress dashboard.
2. Click Edit on your homepage.
3. In the right sidebar, find the Layout section.
4. Set Content Container to Full Width.
5. Update the page and check the homepage.

✅ Important: This method only works on a page-based homepage, not dynamic blog feeds.

Applying Custom CSS for More Control

If you need finer control or are using a dynamic homepage, custom CSS can make the homepage full-width while leaving other pages untouched.

How to Add Custom CSS:

1. Go to Appearance > Customize > Additional CSS.
2. Add the following CSS code:

/* Full-width layout for homepage only */
body.home .site-container {
    max-width: 100% !important;
    padding: 0 !important;
}
body.home .inside-article {
    padding: 0;
}

3. Click Publish.

✅ This CSS targets only the homepage (body.home) and makes the content span the full width.

Removing the Sidebar on the Homepage

If your theme’s sidebar is still showing, you can remove it specifically for the homepage.

Disabling Sidebar for Homepage Only:

1. Go to Appearance > Customize > Layout > Sidebars.
2. Select No Sidebar for the Homepage Layout.
3. Click Publish to save your settings.

✅ This will hide the sidebar only on the homepage while keeping it on other pages.

Making the Header and Footer Full-Width

If you want your header and footer to also span full-width, you can modify them with CSS.

Custom CSS for Full-Width Header and Footer:

/* Full-width header and footer for homepage */
body.home .site-header,
body.home .site-footer {
    max-width: 100% !important;
    padding: 0;
}

✅ This ensures the header and footer stretch across the entire screen only on the homepage.

Adjusting the Container Width (If Content Feels Too Wide)

If the content feels uncomfortably wide, you can set a maximum width for better readability.

CSS to Control Container Width:

/* Limit full-width content for better readability */
body.home .site-container {
    max-width: 1400px !important;
    margin: auto;
}

✅ This keeps the homepage wide but prevents excessive stretching on larger screens.

Hiding the Page Title on the Homepage

To create a cleaner homepage layout, you may want to hide the page title without affecting other pages.

CSS for Hiding Page Title:

/* Hide the page title for homepage only */
body.home .entry-title {
    display: none;
}

✅ This will hide the page title but leave other headings intact for SEO purposes.

Combining CSS for a Complete Full-Width Homepage

Here’s a complete version combining all the adjustments for a full-width homepage:

/* Full-width layout for GeneratePress homepage only */
body.home .site-container {
    max-width: 100% !important;
    padding: 0 !important;
}
body.home .inside-article {
    padding: 0;
}
body.home .site-header,
body.home .site-footer {
    max-width: 100% !important;
    padding: 0;
}
body.home .entry-title {
    display: none;
}

✅ This setup ensures:

• Full-width content.
• No sidebars.
• Hidden page title.
• Consistent header and footer width.

Using the GeneratePress Block Editor (No CSS Needed)

If you’re using GeneratePress Premium, the Block Editor (Gutenberg) offers full-width controls without custom code.

How to Set Full-Width in the Block Editor:

1. Open your homepage using the Block Editor.
2. Click the section you want to expand.
3. Under Block Settings, find the Width option.
4. Select Full Width or Wide Width.

✅ This method works for individual sections and blocks but requires GeneratePress Premium.

Troubleshooting Full-Width Issues in GeneratePress

If your homepage still isn’t full-width:

• Double-check if a page template overrides the CSS.
• Confirm you’re editing the correct page assigned as the homepage under Settings > Reading.
• Clear any caching plugins (like WP Rocket) to ensure CSS changes apply.

✅ If the issue persists, custom CSS might need further adjustments based on your GeneratePress child theme.

Need Help Customizing GeneratePress?

If you’re unsure about custom CSS or want a professional touch for your GeneratePress layout, hiring a certified WordPress expert can ensure pixel-perfect results.

FAQs About Making a Full-Width Homepage in GeneratePress

Why Should I Make My Homepage Full-Width?

A full-width homepage works great for landing pages, hero sections, and portfolios where visual content needs to stand out. It provides a cleaner, modern design.

Does This Work on the Free Version of GeneratePress?

Yes, you can achieve a full-width homepage on the free version using CSS. However, GeneratePress Premium offers more flexible layout controls directly in the Page Settings.

Can I Make Only Certain Sections Full-Width?

Yes! If you’re using GeneratePress Premium, you can set block-level full-width layouts using the Block Editor without affecting the entire page.

Will Making the Homepage Full-Width Affect SEO?

No, as long as you don’t remove critical headings and content visibility. Ensure the homepage retains essential text content and headings for SEO purposes.

How Do I Revert to the Default Layout?

To revert the full-width changes:

• Remove the CSS added under Appearance > Customize > Additional CSS.
• Adjust the Content Container back to Contained in the page settings.

Can I Remove the Header and Footer for a Minimalist Look?

Yes, you can hide the header and footer using the following CSS:

body.home .site-header, 
body.home .site-footer {
    display: none;
}

This is great for sales pages or landing pages where minimal distractions are desired.

Is GeneratePress SEO-Friendly?

Yes! GeneratePress is designed for speed, clean code, and SEO optimization. Making your homepage full-width won’t affect your SEO if content remains properly structured.

By following these steps, you can create a stunning, full-width homepage in GeneratePress without a plugin. Whether you’re customizing with CSS or using built-in settings, this guide ensures you maintain control over your website’s design. Need help? Consider hiring a professional for advanced styling!

Setting up SMTP email routing with WP Mail SMTP and Gmail ensures your WordPress emails are delivered reliably without getting stuck in spam folders. WordPress emails often fail due to server limitations or misconfigurations, but this setup can fix that issue effectively.

Why Use SMTP for WordPress Emails?

By default, WordPress uses the wp_mail() function to send emails via PHP mail, which is unreliable. Many web hosts block PHP mail or send emails without proper authentication, causing major issues like:

• Emails not sending: PHP mail can be restricted by hosting providers.
• Emails landing in spam: Without proper authentication, emails often get flagged as spam.
• No email tracking: The default system lacks reporting on delivery success.

✅ SMTP solves this by:

• Authenticating your emails using a trusted server.
• Encrypting emails for better security.
• Improving deliverability through Gmail’s reliable SMTP servers.

Installing and Activating WP Mail SMTP Plugin

The WP Mail SMTP plugin is the easiest way to integrate SMTP email routing with WordPress.

How to Install WP Mail SMTP:

• Log into your WordPress dashboard.
• Go to Plugins > Add New.
• Search for WP Mail SMTP by WPForms.
• Click Install Now and then Activate.

After activation, WP Mail SMTP will launch a setup wizard to help you through the configuration process.

✅ Why WP Mail SMTP?

• Built-in Gmail integration.
• No need for coding.
• Clear error logging and test emails.

Configuring WP Mail SMTP Settings

The next step involves configuring your From Email, Mailer, and setting up Gmail as your SMTP server.

How to Configure WP Mail SMTP:

1. Go to WP Mail SMTP > Settings.
2. Set your From Email (use the Gmail address you’ll be sending from).
3. Enable Force From Email to standardize outgoing emails.
4. Set your From Name (e.g., your business name).
5. Choose Google/Gmail as your mailer service.

✅ Pro Tip: Enabling Force From Email ensures all plugins send emails from the same address, reducing misconfigurations.

Setting Up Google Cloud Project for SMTP Integration

To send emails using Gmail’s SMTP servers, you must create a Google Cloud Project for secure authentication via OAuth 2.0.

Creating a Google Cloud Project:

• Visit the Google Cloud Console: console.cloud.google.com.
• Click Create Project and name it (e.g., “WP Mail SMTP Setup”).
• Once created, go to the OAuth Consent Screen tab.
• Choose External and click Create.

Configuring OAuth Credentials:

1. Go to APIs & Services > Credentials > Create Credentials > OAuth Client ID.
2. Choose Web Application as the application type.
3. Enter your WordPress site URL in the Authorized Redirect URIs field.
4. Click Create and save your Client ID and Client Secret.

✅ Note: Keep the Client ID and Client Secret handy for the next step.

Connecting WP Mail SMTP with Gmail Using OAuth

OAuth provides a secure method for Gmail to authorize your website to send emails without storing passwords directly on your server.

How to Integrate OAuth:

1. Go back to WP Mail SMTP > Settings in your WordPress dashboard.
2. Under Mailer, select Gmail.
3. Enter your Client ID and Client Secret generated earlier.
4. Click Save Settings and then Allow Plugin Access when prompted.

✅ Once authorized, WP Mail SMTP will be linked to your Gmail account for secure email delivery.

Sending a Test Email to Verify Setup

It’s crucial to verify that your setup is working properly.

How to Send a Test Email:

• Go to WP Mail SMTP > Tools > Email Test.
• Enter a recipient email address (preferably a personal Gmail).
• Click Send Email.

✅ If successful: You will see a confirmation message.
❌ If it fails: Review your Google Cloud Project settings and double-check your credentials.

Troubleshooting Common SMTP Issues

If your test email fails, consider these common problems and solutions:

Incorrect OAuth Credentials

• Verify your Client ID and Client Secret in WP Mail SMTP settings.
• Ensure Authorized Redirect URIs match your website URL.

Server Restrictions

• Confirm your hosting provider allows SMTP traffic.
• Some shared hosts block outgoing SMTP connections.

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Conflict

• If 2FA is enabled on your Gmail account, you must use OAuth 2.0 instead of traditional SMTP credentials.

✅ Pro Tip: Check the Error Logs under WP Mail SMTP > Email Log for more details on delivery failures.

Benefits of Using WP Mail SMTP with Gmail

Using WP Mail SMTP and Gmail provides several advantages over the default PHP mail system:

• ✅ Increased Deliverability: Fewer emails marked as spam.
• ✅ Secure Encryption: OAuth prevents direct password storage.
• ✅ Detailed Error Logging: Track email success and failures easily.
• ✅ No Additional Costs: Gmail SMTP is free for standard use.

Maintaining Your SMTP Configuration

To keep your SMTP setup reliable over time, consider the following maintenance tips:

• Regularly update the WP Mail SMTP plugin.
• Monitor email logs for delivery issues.
• Use a dedicated business Gmail account for better control.
• Consider G Suite (Google Workspace) for professional email addresses.

✅ Bonus Tip: Set up weekly test emails using WP Mail SMTP’s email logging feature.

Need Expert Help Setting Up SMTP with Gmail?

If you’re struggling to configure WP Mail SMTP or facing technical issues, hiring a WordPress expert can save time and ensure error-free email delivery.

FAQs About Setting Up WP Mail SMTP and Gmail

Why Should I Use Gmail SMTP for WordPress Emails?

Gmail SMTP improves email deliverability by authenticating your messages through Google’s secure servers, reducing the chances of emails landing in spam.

Is WP Mail SMTP Free?

Yes, WP Mail SMTP offers a free version with essential SMTP features. However, the Pro version provides enhanced email logging, detailed reporting, and priority support.

Do I Need a Google Cloud Project for Gmail SMTP?

Yes, a Google Cloud Project with OAuth 2.0 credentials is required for secure Gmail integration with WordPress.

Can I Use a Different SMTP Service Instead of Gmail?

Yes, WP Mail SMTP supports various providers like SendGrid, SMTP.com, and Mailgun for SMTP email routing.

What If My Test Email Fails?

Common reasons include:

• Incorrect OAuth credentials.
• Host restrictions blocking SMTP traffic.
• Missing redirect URI settings in Google Cloud.

Does Gmail SMTP Work for High-Volume Emails?

The free version of Gmail SMTP has daily limits of 500 emails per day. For higher limits, consider Google Workspace (G Suite).

Is This Setup Secure?

Yes! WP Mail SMTP uses OAuth 2.0, a secure standard where passwords aren’t stored on your server, minimizing security risks.

Setting up WP Mail SMTP with Gmail ensures your WordPress emails are reliable, secure, and properly authenticated. If you face any issues during the setup, don’t hesitate to get professional help for a smooth experience.

Is your WooCommerce checkout page stuck on the loading spinner, preventing customers from completing their orders? This frustrating issue can lead to lost sales, abandoned carts, and a poor user experience. Fortunately, you can fix it with a few troubleshooting steps.

Let’s break down every possible cause and solution thoroughly so you can get your checkout working smoothly again.

Step 1: Clear Cache and Test Again

Why this matters: Cached data can disrupt dynamic elements like the WooCommerce checkout page, especially if outdated files are being loaded instead of the latest scripts.

What is Cache?

Caching temporarily stores copies of your website files to speed up loading times. However, if the cache becomes outdated, it can block essential scripts from running properly.

How to Clear Cache:

• Browser Cache: Clear your browser’s cache or try accessing the checkout page in incognito mode to rule out browser-related cache issues.
• WordPress Cache: If you use plugins like WP Rocket, LiteSpeed Cache, or W3 Total Cache, clear the cache directly from the plugin settings.
• Server Cache: Some web hosts offer server-level caching (e.g., Kinsta, SiteGround). Clear the cache from your hosting control panel.

✅ Test the Checkout: After clearing all caches, refresh your checkout page and try placing a test order to see if the spinner issue is resolved.

Step 2: Disable Conflict-Causing Plugins

Why this matters: Plugins can interfere with each other, especially if they modify how scripts load on the checkout page.

How Plugin Conflicts Occur:

• Some plugins modify the checkout page behavior or override default WooCommerce scripts.
• Security, optimization, or payment gateway plugins can prevent checkout scripts from loading properly.

How to Test for Plugin Conflicts:

1. Go to Plugins > Installed Plugins.
2. Deactivate all plugins except WooCommerce.
3. Test the checkout page to see if the spinner issue resolves.
4. Reactivate plugins one by one and test after each reactivation.

Common Plugins Known to Cause Checkout Issues:

• Caching Plugins: WP Rocket, W3 Total Cache
• Security Plugins: Wordfence, iThemes Security
• Payment Plugins: Old versions of Stripe, PayPal plugins

✅ Pro Tip: Use the Health Check & Troubleshooting plugin to run conflict tests in a secure troubleshooting mode without affecting your live site.

Step 3: Switch to a Default Theme

Why this matters: Some themes include custom WooCommerce modifications that might conflict with the default checkout scripts.

How to Test with a Default Theme:

1. Go to Appearance > Themes.
2. Activate the default Storefront theme or Twenty Twenty-Four.
3. Refresh your checkout page and see if the spinner issue persists.

What to Do If the Theme Is the Problem:

• Check for a theme update that might resolve the issue.
• Contact the theme developer for WooCommerce compatibility fixes.
• Consider switching to a WooCommerce-optimized theme like Storefront or GeneratePress.

✅ If the default theme works fine, the issue is with your current theme.

Step 4: Enable AJAX Checkout in WooCommerce

Why this matters: WooCommerce uses AJAX for dynamic interactions on the checkout page. If disabled, the loading spinner can get stuck because essential scripts fail to load.

What Is AJAX?

AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML) allows parts of the page to load data without refreshing the entire page. WooCommerce uses it for:

• Real-time order validation
• Dynamic shipping and tax calculations
• Live payment processing feedback

How to Enable AJAX Checkout:

1. Go to WooCommerce > Settings > Advanced > Page Setup.
2. Verify the Cart and Checkout pages are correctly assigned.
3. Go to WooCommerce > Settings > Products.
4. Ensure Enable AJAX Add to Cart is checked.

✅ Refresh the checkout page and test if the loading spinner issue is resolved.

Step 5: Verify Payment Gateway Settings

Why this matters: If your payment gateway isn’t configured properly, it can block the checkout process, causing it to get stuck.

Common Payment Gateway Errors:

• Invalid API Keys: Check that your PayPal, Stripe, or other gateway API keys are accurate.
• Incomplete Setup: Ensure all necessary fields in the payment gateway settings are filled correctly.
• Outdated Plugins: An old version of the payment plugin can disrupt the checkout process.

How to Verify Payment Settings:

1. Go to WooCommerce > Settings > Payments.
2. Select the active payment gateway you’re using.
3. Verify the API keys, client IDs, and secret keys.

✅ Pro Tip: Run a test order using Cash on Delivery to see if the payment gateway is causing the issue.

Step 6: Enable Debugging in WooCommerce

Why this matters: Debug mode helps identify checkout errors by logging error messages that might not be visible on the frontend.

How to Enable Debug Mode:

1. Go to WooCommerce > Settings > Payments.
2. Select the payment gateway you’re testing.
3. Enable Debug Mode for the gateway.

How to Access Error Logs:

• Go to WooCommerce > Status > Logs.
• Select the most recent log file related to checkout issues.

✅ Look for messages like AJAX failure or payment error to identify the root cause.

Step 7: Update WooCommerce and WordPress Core

Why this matters: Outdated versions of WooCommerce or WordPress can break compatibility with newer plugins and cause checkout issues.

How to Update WooCommerce and WordPress:

1. Go to Dashboard > Updates.
2. Check for available updates for WooCommerce, WordPress Core, and your plugins.
3. Update them one by one.

✅ Backup Your Site: Always create a backup before updating core files and plugins to avoid data loss.

Step 8: Inspect Browser Console for Errors

Why this matters: Browser console errors can reveal JavaScript conflicts causing the checkout spinner to freeze.

How to Check for Errors:

1. Open your checkout page in Google Chrome.
2. Press Ctrl + Shift + J (Windows) or Cmd + Option + J (Mac).
3. Look for errors marked in red under the Console Tab.

Common Errors to Watch For:

• Uncaught ReferenceError – Missing JavaScript files.
• Failed to Load Resource – Blocking payment gateway scripts.

✅ If errors appear, they may point to a specific plugin or theme conflict.

Step 9: Restore WooCommerce Checkout Pages

If your checkout page was accidentally deleted or misconfigured, it can lead to checkout failures.

How to Restore Checkout Pages:

1. Go to WooCommerce > Status > Tools.
2. Locate the Create Default WooCommerce Pages section.
3. Click Create Pages to regenerate the default checkout and cart pages.

✅ Important: Ensure the correct pages are assigned under WooCommerce > Settings > Advanced.

Step 10: Hire a WooCommerce Expert for Checkout Troubleshooting

If you’re still struggling with a frozen WooCommerce checkout, professional help can save you time and prevent lost sales. Certified WordPress experts can diagnose and fix advanced checkout issues, ensuring smooth transactions for your customers.

By following these steps, you should be able to fix the WooCommerce checkout stuck on loading spinner error and get your store back to processing orders smoothly. If the issue persists, seeking professional help can be a worthwhile investment for your business continuity.

Elementor Pro’s templates library offers pre-designed layouts for faster website building. However, you might want to disable it if you prefer a fully custom design workflow or for performance reasons. Here’s how you can turn off the Elementor Pro templates library step by step.

Step 1: Understand Why You Might Want to Disable the Templates Library

The Elementor Pro templates library can be a powerful tool, but it’s not always necessary for every project. Common reasons to disable it include:

• Minimalist Design Preferences: If you prefer creating custom layouts from scratch without pre-built templates.
• Performance Optimization: Reducing plugin features can lower server resource usage.
• Limiting Access for Clients: Preventing clients from accidentally applying pre-built templates and breaking the site design.
• Security Considerations: Fewer features mean fewer points of potential vulnerability.

✅ Best Practice: Only disable the templates library if you’re sure you won’t need it in the future.

Step 2: Disable the Elementor Pro Templates Library Using the Settings Panel

Elementor Pro doesn’t offer a direct toggle to disable the templates library, but you can restrict its usage through settings.

How to Restrict Template Access:

1. Go to your WordPress dashboard.
2. Navigate to Elementor > Settings.
3. Under the Advanced tab, look for Template Library settings.
4. Disable access to remote templates by toggling the relevant setting.

✅ This method works for basic restriction but may not fully disable the feature for all users.

Step 3: Disable the Templates Library Using Custom Code (Recommended)

For a more permanent solution, you can disable the Elementor Pro templates library using a small code snippet.

How to Disable Templates Library with Code:

1. Go to Appearance > Theme File Editor.
2. Open your functions.php file (or use a code snippet plugin like Code Snippets).
3. Add the following code:

add_filter('elementor/editor/show_templates', '__return_false');

4. Save the changes and refresh your Elementor editor.

✅ This completely removes the Templates Library button from the Elementor editor.

Step 4: Disable Elementor Pro Templates with a Plugin (No Coding)

If you prefer a plugin-based solution instead of editing code manually, you can use a lightweight plugin to restrict access.

Recommended Plugin:

• Disable Elementor Templates Library (if available in the plugin directory)
• Code Snippets Plugin (for non-technical users who want to add the code safely)

How to Use the Plugin:

1. Go to Plugins > Add New.
2. Search for Code Snippets.
3. Install and activate the plugin.
4. Add the code snippet mentioned in Step 3 inside the plugin interface.

✅ Using a plugin keeps the core files untouched and is easier for beginners.

Step 5: Restrict Elementor Templates Library for User Roles

If you’re working with multiple users on your site, you can disable the templates library only for specific roles using custom capabilities.

How to Disable Based on User Role:

1. Install the User Role Editor plugin.
2. Go to Users > User Role Editor.
3. Select the role you want to restrict (e.g., Editor or Author).
4. Uncheck Access Elementor Templates Library permission.

✅ This method is useful for client sites where you want to limit design changes by non-admin users.

Step 6: Disable Elementor Pro Updates for Templates Library

If you want to disable template updates while keeping Elementor Pro active, you can block remote requests.

How to Block Remote Updates:

1. Add the following code to your functions.php file:

add_filter('elementor/template_library/sources/remote', '__return_empty_array');

2. Save the file and refresh your dashboard.

✅ This prevents Elementor Pro from fetching new templates from their cloud service.

Step 7: Test If the Templates Library Is Fully Disabled

After making the changes, you need to verify whether the templates library is indeed disabled.

How to Test:

• Open any page in the Elementor Editor.
• Confirm the Templates Library button is no longer visible.
• Check different user roles to ensure restrictions apply correctly.

✅ If the button is still visible, double-check the code snippets for accuracy.

Step 8: Re-Enable the Elementor Pro Templates Library (If Needed)

If you change your mind and want to bring back the templates library, it’s easy to reverse the changes.

To Re-Enable the Templates Library:

• If you used code snippets: Remove the code added in the functions.php file.
• If you used a plugin: Disable the plugin or delete the code snippet entry.
• For role-based restrictions: Re-enable the Access Elementor Templates Library permission.

✅ Elementor templates can be helpful for rapid design, so only disable them if necessary.

Step 9: Consider Alternative Design Strategies Without Templates

Disabling the templates library means you need a more manual design approach. Here are a few alternatives:

• Create Your Own Templates: Design your layouts and save them as reusable templates under My Templates in Elementor.
• Use Theme Builder: Elementor’s Theme Builder can help you create custom page layouts without relying on templates.
• Use Wireframes: Consider using Elementor Wireframes for a minimalist, template-free design approach.

✅ This way, you maintain full design control without pre-built templates.

Step 10: Hire an Elementor Expert for Custom Configurations

If you’re managing a client site or want to ensure the templates library is disabled without affecting site functionality, hiring a professional can save you time and headaches.

FAQs About Disabling Elementor Pro Templates Library

Why Should I Disable the Elementor Pro Templates Library?

Disabling the templates library is useful when:

• You want complete design control without pre-built elements.
• To prevent clients from applying templates that break the design.
• To reduce unnecessary server resource usage.

Can I Disable the Templates Library for Specific Users Only?

Yes, you can disable the library for certain user roles by using the User Role Editor plugin or custom capabilities management in WordPress.

Will Disabling the Templates Library Affect My Current Designs?

No, disabling the library only prevents access to new templates. Existing templates already applied to your pages will remain unaffected.

Is There a Plugin to Disable the Templates Library?

While there isn’t a dedicated plugin for this task, the Code Snippets plugin can be used to safely add the necessary code to disable the feature.

How Do I Re-Enable the Elementor Pro Templates Library?

Simply remove the code snippet you added or re-enable the Access Elementor Templates Library permission for the user roles you previously restricted.

Does Disabling Templates Improve Website Speed?

Yes, disabling unused features can reduce server requests and improve loading times slightly. However, performance gains may be minimal unless combined with broader optimization steps.

Can I Still Use My Custom Templates After Disabling the Library?

Yes! Disabling the templates library only affects Elementor’s pre-built templates, not your saved templates stored under My Templates.

By following these steps, you can effectively disable the Elementor Pro templates library while keeping your design workflow smooth and secure. If you’re unsure or managing multiple sites, hiring a professional can ensure the task is done correctly.