How do I change my WordPress website theme?

Changing a WordPress theme can change your website’s design, layout and available features. Before switching, check how the new theme will affect your existing content and settings.

1. Back up your website

Create a recent backup of your website before changing the theme. This gives you a recovery option if something does not work as expected.

2. Review your current theme

Make a note of important customisations, widgets, menus, homepage settings and other theme-specific features.

Some settings or features may not transfer automatically to a different theme.

3. Choose a new theme

From your WordPress dashboard, go to Appearance → Themes → Add New Theme if your WordPress setup provides this option.

Review the theme’s features, compatibility, update history and requirements before installing it.

You can also upload a theme when you have a theme package from a trusted source.

4. Install and activate the theme

Install the theme and select Activate when you are ready to use it.

Installing a theme does not normally remove your existing theme. You can keep installed themes available for later use, provided they remain appropriate and supported.

5. Reconfigure your website

After activation, review your website carefully. Check the:

Header and footer
Navigation
Homepage
Page layouts
Widgets or blocks
Logo and site identity
Colours and typography
Custom CSS or other customisations

Theme-specific settings may need to be configured again.

6. Test the entire website

Visit the important pages and test links, menus, forms and other features. Check the website on both desktop and mobile.

If the new theme causes a problem, investigate the affected theme settings, plugins or customisations before continuing to use it.

Last Updated 2nd February 2026.

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We publish our Knowledge Base to help individuals and businesses resolve common issues across websites, advertising platforms, Salesforce and other digital systems.

We regularly review and update our guides, but the platforms, software and services covered can change without notice. As a result, screenshots, settings, features or recommended processes may differ from those available when an article was last reviewed.

The information provided is general guidance and should not be treated as advice specific to your systems or circumstances. UTDS Optimal Choice cannot accept responsibility for errors, data loss, service disruption or other issues resulting from changes made by following these guides.

If you are unsure about any of the steps, particularly where a change could affect live systems, data, tracking or business processes, we recommend speaking to us before making the change. Our team can review your specific setup and provide advice based on the current platform and configuration.

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