Install and switch a WordPress theme safely
Switch themes without losing content, widgets, or menus.
5 min read beginnerUpdated Apr 14, 2025
BI
Reviewed by the editorial team · Apr 14, 2025
Step by step
- 01
Back up first
UpdraftPlus or your host's backup. Themes can break layouts.
- 02
Install the theme
Appearance → Themes → Add New. Search or upload .zip.
- 03
Preview before activating
Live Preview lets you see your site in the new theme before flipping it.
- 04
Activate and reassign menus
Appearance → Menus → assign to the new theme's locations.
- 05
Re-add widgets
Widgets often need to be placed into the new theme's sidebars.
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