how to remove WordPress widgets from dashboard

Understanding how to customize your WordPress dashboard by removing unnecessary widgets can streamline your workspace, boost productivity, and create a more enjoyable admin experience.

Step-by-Step Guide to Remove WordPress Widgets from Dashboard

1. Understand WordPress Dashboard Widgets

WordPress Dashboard Widgets are handy blocks of information that provide quick access to frequently used tools and overall site health. Examples include “At a Glance”, “Activity”, “Quick Draft”, and “WordPress News”.

2. Access Your WordPress Dashboard

To begin customization, log in to your WordPress site with an administrator account. This will take you directly to the dashboard, where all widgets are displayed.

3. Use Screen Options for Quick Removal

For a swift method of removing widgets:

• Locate the ‘Screen Options’ button at the top right of the dashboard.
• Click on it to see a list of all the current widgets displayed as checkboxes.
• Uncheck the box beside the widget you want to remove.
• The page will automatically update, and the unchecked widget will disappear from the dashboard.

This method does not permanently remove the widget but hides it from view. It’s perfect for users who prefer a non-permanent solution or anticipate needing the widget in the future.

4. Customize Through Code in functions.php

For a more permanent solution, particularly for developers or those comfortable with code, modifying the functions.php file of your theme can effectively remove widgets. Add the following code to your theme’s functions.php file:

function remove_dashboard_meta() {
    remove_meta_box('dashboard_incoming_links', 'dashboard', 'normal');   // Removes the 'incoming links' widget
    remove_meta_box('dashboard_plugins', 'dashboard', 'normal');         // Removes the 'plugins' widget
    remove_meta_box('dashboard_primary', 'dashboard', 'side');           // Removes the WordPress News widget
    remove_meta_box('dashboard_secondary', 'dashboard', 'normal');       // Removes the secondary widget
}

add_action('wp_dashboard_setup', 'remove_dashboard_meta' );

This snippet removes selected widgets by disabling them completely. Always back up functions.php before making any changes as errors can seriously affect site functionality.

5. Manage Widgets Using a Plugin

For those who prefer not to deal with code, various plugins can help manage dashboard widgets:

• WP Admin UI Customize: An excellent plugin for managing admin area elements including widgets.
• Adminimize: It allows administrators to hide unnecessary items based on the user role without editing any code.

Install your chosen plugin via the Plugins menu, activate it, and follow the on-screen instructions or settings to manage widgets.

6. Utilize the WordPress REST API

Advanced users can take advantage of the WordPress REST API to manage dashboard widgets. Using custom endpoints, one can programmatically hide or remove widgets based on specific conditions or user roles, offering dynamic dashboard experiences for different types of users.

7. Refresh and Verify Changes

After implementing your chosen method of removing widgets, always refresh your dashboard to ensure changes are applied correctly. Verify the dashboard appears as intended and test functionality to ensure removing widgets didn’t affect other components.

8. Best Practices When Modifying Admin Area

• Always Create Backups: Before modifying any core files or themes, ensure you have a complete backup of your WordPress site.
• Test Changes in Staging: Implement changes in a staging environment first to avoid disrupting live site operations.
• Document Changes: Keep a record of customizations made to your dashboard, especially when modifying code. This documentation will be invaluable for troubleshooting or transferring responsibilities.

9. Future-proofing Dashboard Customization

Remember, themes and plugins receive updates that may override custom changes. Use child themes for modifications, and keep an eye on updates that might require re-applying custom settings. Consider building specific plugins for modifications or opting into tools that explicitly support dashboard management.

Through these steps, WordPress users of any skill level can effectively control the presence of dashboard widgets, leading to a more tailored and efficient administrative workspace. Whether through simple user interface adjustments, plugin solutions, or direct code edits, the control is in your hands to create the optimal WordPress dashboard environment.