How to Add Custom Scrollbars to Any Element in WordPress

Do you want to make your WordPress site stand out with a stylish touch? Custom scrollbars can help you achieve that modern look! Standard scrollbars might not blend well with your site’s design, but custom ones can enhance your site’s appeal without requiring any coding skills. Let’s explore how you can implement custom scrollbars using CSS, plugins, or JavaScript.

Why Customize Scrollbars?

Customizing scrollbars can give your website a sleek, contemporary feel. By choosing unique shapes, colors, and sizes, you can ensure the scrollbars complement your site’s design. Custom scrollbars are particularly effective when used on text boxes or sidebars, helping to control how users view different sections of your site. This slight enhancement can significantly improve the overall user experience, making your site feel more cohesive and visually appealing.

Easy Ways to Add Custom Scrollbars in WordPress

Let’s look at three simple methods to add custom scrollbars without needing to write code.

Method 1: Use a WordPress Plugin (No Coding)

The easiest way to add scrollbars is by using a plugin.

Step 1: Install “Simple Custom Scrollbar” Plugin

1. Go to your WordPress dashboard.
2. Click on Plugins > Add New.
3. Search for “Simple Custom Scrollbar.”
4. Click Install Now and then Activate.

Step 2: Customize Scrollbar Settings

1. Navigate to Settings > Custom Scrollbar.
2. Choose colors, width, speed, and more.
3. Preview the scrollbar on your site.

Step 3: Apply the Scrollbar to a Specific Element

1. By default, the plugin usually applies to the whole page.
2. Use a custom class or ID to target a specific section, e.g., .scroll-box or #custom-section.

Using a plugin is quick and safe, though it may lack full control over stylistic choices.

Method 2: Use CSS for Complete Control

For more styling options, CSS is your go-to method.

Step 1: Add a CSS Class to Your Element

Add a class to your HTML element like this:

<div class="custom-scrollbox">
  Your scrollable content here
</div>

Step 2: Add Custom CSS

1. Go to your WordPress dashboard.
2. Navigate to Appearance > Customize > Additional CSS.
3. Paste the following CSS code:

.custom-scrollbox {
  max-height: 300px;
  overflow-y: scroll;
}

.custom-scrollbox::-webkit-scrollbar {
  width: 10px;
}

.custom-scrollbox::-webkit-scrollbar-track {
  background: #f1f1f1;
  border-radius: 10px;
}

.custom-scrollbox::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb {
  background: #888;
  border-radius: 10px;
}

.custom-scrollbox::-webkit-scrollbar-thumb:hover {
  background: #555;
}

Step 3: Save and Preview

Click Publish to apply the CSS. This method allows for more customization, smooth scrolling, and advanced effects.

Method 3: Add JavaScript Scrollbar Libraries

JavaScript libraries offer modern effects. One popular choice is OverlayScrollbars.

Step 1: Add the Library to WordPress

1. Download OverlayScrollbars from OverlayScrollbars.
2. Upload its JavaScript and CSS files to your theme folder or enqueue them in WordPress.

Add this to your theme’s functions.php:

function add_custom_scrollbar_assets() {
  wp_enqueue_style('overlayscrollbars-css', get_template_directory_uri() . '/css/OverlayScrollbars.min.css');
  wp_enqueue_script('overlayscrollbars-js', get_template_directory_uri() . '/js/OverlayScrollbars.min.js', array('jquery'), null, true);
}

add_action('wp_enqueue_scripts', 'add_custom_scrollbar_assets');

Step 2: Initialize the Scrollbar with JavaScript

Add this code to your site’s footer or through a custom JS file:

jQuery(document).ready(function($){
  OverlayScrollbars(document.querySelectorAll(".custom-scrollbox"), {});
});

Step 3: Add the Class to Your Element

Use this HTML code where you want the scrollbar:

<div class="custom-scrollbox" style="height:300px; overflow:auto;">
  Content to scroll here.
</div>

Styling Tips for Scrollbars

Consider these tips to ensure your custom scrollbar design complements your theme:

• Scrollbar Width: Opt for a narrower width for a sleek, modern design.
• Colors: Match scrollbar colors with your site’s theme for a cohesive look.
• Hover Effect: Implement hover effects for enhanced interactivity.
• Rounded Corners: Use rounded corners for a smooth, polished appearance.

Conclusion

Adding custom scrollbars is a simple way to enhance your WordPress site’s aesthetics and user experience. Whether you opt for plugins, CSS, or JavaScript, each method offers unique benefits. While advanced users may prefer the control offered by CSS or JavaScript, beginners can easily use plugins. By carefully following these guidelines, you can provide your visitors with a more stylish and engaging browsing experience.

For more tips on enhancing your WordPress site, check out our guide on optimizing WordPress performance.