How to Restore Classic Widgets in WordPress

If you’ve recently updated WordPress and noticed that the Widgets area looks…different, you’re not alone! WordPress introduced the new block-based widgets editor, but if you’re like me and miss the simplicity of the classic widgets screen, don’t worry. You can easily get back the familiar widgets interface you know and love.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to bring back the classic widgets in WordPress. It’s a quick fix, and no, you don’t need any coding experience for this!

Why Go Back to Classic Widgets?

I get it – WordPress is always evolving, and these updates often bring new, exciting features. But there’s something about the classic widgets that just feels simpler and faster.

For many of us, the block-based widget editor is a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re only making quick tweaks or adding a few simple widgets.

I personally prefer the old layout for its ease of use and clean look – no blocks, just straightforward settings.

Step 1: Install the “Classic Widgets” Plugin

Thankfully, WordPress has made it super easy to revert to the classic widgets without hassle. All it takes is a plugin called Classic Widgets developed by WordPress itself. Here’s how to get it set up:

1. Log in to your WordPress Dashboard.
   • This is the usual starting point, but if you’re not sure, just go to yourwebsite.com/wp-admin and log in.
2. Go to Plugins > Add New.
   • In the left-hand sidebar, find “Plugins” and click “Add New” under it.
3. Search for “Classic Widgets.”
   • In the search bar on the top right, type in “Classic Widgets.” It should show up as the first result. Look for the one by the WordPress Contributors – it’s reliable and does exactly what it promises.
4. Install and Activate the Plugin.
   • Click Install Now and wait a moment for it to download. Once it’s installed, click Activate.

That’s it! WordPress will now switch back to the classic widgets editor automatically. Head over to Appearance > Widgets to see it in action.

Step 2: Confirm Your Widgets Are Back to Classic

Once you activate the plugin, you should immediately notice the change. Go to Appearance > Widgets again, and instead of seeing blocks everywhere, you’ll see the simple widget interface you’re used to.

Honestly, the first time I did this, it felt like a bit of a relief! No more hunting down blocks or dealing with settings hidden inside dropdowns. Just drag, drop, and save – exactly the way I like it.

Personal Touches: Why I Still Prefer Classic Widgets

For my own sites, I stick with the classic widgets because they’re quick and don’t distract me from the actual content. When I’m updating a sidebar or adding a simple footer widget, I don’t want to dig through blocks;

I just want to get it done! The classic widgets also tend to load faster for me – maybe it’s just a personal feeling, but the simplicity makes things feel quicker.

Also, if you’re managing multiple sites or client sites, the classic interface makes it much easier to make consistent updates without worrying about different block settings. Some things are just better kept simple!

What If You Change Your Mind?

If you ever feel like giving the new widgets editor another try, you can easily deactivate the Classic Widgets plugin.

Just go back to Plugins > Installed Plugins, find Classic Widgets, and hit Deactivate. WordPress will automatically switch back to the block editor for widgets, so you can explore the new features if you’re feeling adventurous!

Wrapping Up: Enjoy the Familiar Feel of Classic Widgets

And that’s all it takes! With the Classic Widgets plugin, you get back the simple, no-nonsense widgets screen that so many of us prefer.

WordPress changes can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming, but it’s great to know we have options to keep things the way we like them.

If you’re someone who just wants things to work without the extra frills, give Classic Widgets a try. It’s a lifesaver for anyone who appreciates a simpler approach to website updates.