How to Add Dark Mode to WordPress Website

Adding Dark Mode to your WordPress site can enhance user experience, especially for users who prefer browsing in low-light environments. Dark Mode offers an elegant, eye-soothing theme with a darker background, which is particularly popular for reducing eye strain. This guide will walk you through various methods to implement Dark Mode on your WordPress site, including plugins, custom CSS, and JavaScript options.

Why Dark Mode Matters for Your Website

1. Benefits of Dark Mode

Dark Mode isn’t just aesthetically pleasing; it also:

• Reduces eye strain, especially in low-light conditions
• Saves battery life on OLED screens
• Makes your site more accessible to users with visual impairments

2. Popularity of Dark Mode Among Users

Dark Mode has become widely preferred by users on major platforms, with popular apps like Twitter and YouTube offering dark themes. This demand makes it worthwhile for websites to offer users the option to switch between light and dark themes.

---

Ways to Implement Dark Mode on WordPress

1. Using a Dark Mode Plugin

The easiest way to add Dark Mode is by using a WordPress plugin. Here are some top options:

• WP Dark Mode: Simple to use with multiple customization options.
• Darklup Lite: Offers automatic dark/light switching based on user time zones.
• Night Eye: Allows you to tweak colors for a seamless dark experience.

Each plugin offers unique features, so choose one that aligns with your requirements.

2. Custom CSS for Dark Mode

For more control over Dark Mode’s appearance, adding custom CSS is an option. You’ll need basic CSS knowledge to define the dark theme styles for your site elements.

Steps for Adding Dark Mode with CSS:

• Open Appearance > Customize > Additional CSS.
• Add a CSS class for Dark Mode. For example:

body.dark-mode {
    background-color: #121212;
    color: #ffffff;
}

• Save the changes, and preview the Dark Mode in your browser.

3. Using JavaScript for Dynamic Dark Mode

For those comfortable with JavaScript, creating a Dark Mode toggle with JavaScript is a flexible option. JavaScript can also detect user preferences and dynamically apply Dark Mode without a plugin.

---

Choosing the Right Method for Your Website

1. Ease of Use

If you prefer a simple, plug-and-play solution, a plugin is your best choice. For more control, custom CSS or JavaScript can be more effective.

2. Performance Impact

Adding multiple plugins can slow down your site. Custom CSS or JavaScript may have a lower impact on performance, so weigh the speed impact if site performance is a top priority.

---

Installing a Dark Mode Plugin in WordPress

Step 1: Choose a Plugin

Select a plugin from the options listed above based on your preferences and feature needs.

Step 2: Install and Activate the Plugin

Go to Plugins > Add New in your WordPress dashboard, search for your chosen Dark Mode plugin, and click Install Now. Once installed, click Activate.

Step 3: Configure Plugin Settings

After activation, find the plugin’s settings (usually under Settings or in a dedicated tab). Here, you can customize the theme appearance and behavior of Dark Mode to match your site’s brand.

Adding Dark Mode with Custom CSS

Creating a CSS Class for Dark Mode

Define a CSS class with the colors and backgrounds suited for Dark Mode. This approach allows you to add Dark Mode to specific elements without affecting the entire site.

Adding a Toggle Switch for Users

A toggle switch allows users to switch Dark Mode on or off easily. Here’s how you can do this using JavaScript:

1. Create a button in your theme for the toggle.
2. Add JavaScript to apply the Dark Mode class based on user preference, and store the setting locally for future visits.

Example JavaScript:

document.querySelector("#dark-mode-toggle").onclick = function() {
    document.body.classList.toggle("dark-mode");
    localStorage.setItem("darkMode", document.body.classList.contains("dark-mode"));
};

Testing Dark Mode on Your Website

1. Testing on Different Devices and Browsers

Ensure your Dark Mode displays correctly on desktops, tablets, and mobile devices. Also, test across major browsers to guarantee consistent visuals for all users.

2. Optimizing for Accessibility

Accessibility is key in Dark Mode design. Make sure the contrast ratio meets Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) standards, allowing readability for visually impaired users.

Final Touches: Branding and Styling for Dark Mode

For an even better user experience, ensure your Dark Mode aligns with your brand by:

• Using similar font styles
• Adjusting color accents
• Make sure your logo or icons are clear on a darker background

FAQs

Conclusion

Adding Dark Mode to your WordPress website can make a significant difference for users, offering a comfortable, modern, and visually appealing browsing experience. Choose the method that best suits your skill level and needs, and take the time to test it for an optimal user experience. Dark Mode isn’t just a feature; it’s a step toward making your site more inclusive and user-friendly.