How to Hide Variants in Shopify

Introduction
Understanding the Need to Hide Variants
Simple Manual Methods to Hide Variants
Utilizing Third-Party Apps for Streamlined Management
Custom Coding Solutions for Advanced Users
Best Practices for Managing Product Variants
Conclusion
FAQs

Introduction

Imagine browsing an online store only to be frustrated by selecting a product option that isn’t available. This scenario is all too common in e-commerce, particularly on platforms like Shopify, where product variants can clutter the user experience. For instance, if a customer wants to purchase a blue t-shirt but that color isn't available in their preferred size, they may be left confused when they select that option only to find the “Add to Cart” button grayed out.

This issue emphasizes the importance of presenting only relevant product variants to customers. Not only does it enhance the user experience, but it can also lead to higher conversion rates and customer satisfaction. Many Shopify store owners grapple with how to effectively hide unavailable variants without deleting them from their inventory, which can complicate future sales strategies.

In this blog post, we will explore various methods to hide variants in Shopify. You will learn about the underlying reasons for hiding variants, the potential implications on your store's functionality, and step-by-step instructions on how to implement these changes. By the end of this comprehensive guide, you will have a clearer understanding of how to manage your product variants effectively.

We will discuss:

The necessity of hiding variants
Simple manual methods for hiding variants
Utilizing third-party apps for a streamlined approach
Custom coding solutions for advanced users
Best practices for selecting the right method for your store

Let’s dive in and discover how you can enhance your Shopify store's user experience by effectively hiding unnecessary product variants.

Understanding the Need to Hide Variants

Why Hide Variants?

Hiding product variants can be crucial for several reasons:

Improved Customer Experience: Customers are more likely to complete their transactions when they are presented with clear, relevant options. Hiding unavailable variants reduces confusion and keeps the shopping process smooth.
Inventory Management: If certain variants will not be available for an extended period (seasonal items, for example), hiding them can prevent customers from attempting to purchase items they cannot get.
Aesthetic Appeal: A clean, concise product page that showcases only available variants can lead to a more professional appearance, thereby enhancing brand perception.
Increased Conversion Rates: By minimizing the potential for customer frustration, stores can see better conversion rates. Research indicates that a well-organized product page can lead to improved sales figures.

The Implications of Hiding Variants

While hiding variants can greatly improve user experience, it’s important to understand the implications:

SEO Visibility: Hiding variants may affect how they are indexed by search engines. However, as long as the variants remain in your Shopify admin, they can be reinstated at any time.
Stock Management: When hiding variants, ensure that your inventory levels are accurately monitored to avoid future confusion.

Simple Manual Methods to Hide Variants

Method 1: Adjust Inventory Settings

One of the easiest ways to hide variants is by adjusting the inventory settings for each product. Here’s how:

Log into your Shopify Admin: Access your Shopify store and navigate to the admin panel.
Go to Products: Click on the "Products" section from the sidebar.
Select the Product: Choose the product containing the variants you wish to hide.
Adjust Inventory Settings: Scroll down to the "Variants" section.
- Uncheck the “Continue selling when out of stock” option.
- Set the Quantity to 0 for the variants you want to hide.

By following these steps, the selected variants will no longer appear on your storefront until you decide to make them available again.

Method 2: Use Shopify’s Built-In Features

If you are using Shopify's latest themes (like Shopify 2.0), some built-in features may help manage variant visibility. However, this can vary significantly between themes.

Navigate to Themes: From your admin panel, go to Online Store > Themes.
Edit Code: Click on Actions > Edit code for the theme you are currently using.
Use Conditional Logic: By implementing Liquid code snippets, you can conditionally hide variants based on their availability.

This method requires some familiarity with code but is effective for those who want more control over their store’s presentation.

Utilizing Third-Party Apps for Streamlined Management

The Benefits of Using Apps

For store owners looking for a more automated solution, third-party apps can save time and simplify the process of hiding variants. Some popular options include:

Camouflage: This app allows you to hide sold-out variants easily without altering your inventory. You can set specific rules to manage visibility based on inventory levels or other conditions.
Auto Hide Unhide Products: This app automatically hides variants that are out of stock, providing a seamless experience for customers.
Hide Sold Out Products by Power Tools: With this app, you can easily manage which products are visible based on stock levels and other criteria.

How to Install and Use an App

Visit the Shopify App Store: Search for the app you wish to use.
Install the App: Click on the app and follow the installation instructions.
Configure Settings: Once installed, navigate to the app's settings and customize visibility rules based on your preferences.

Using an app can save you significant time and effort, especially if you manage a large inventory with many variants.

Custom Coding Solutions for Advanced Users

When to Consider Custom Code

For those familiar with coding, custom solutions can provide the flexibility to hide variants based on specific criteria not covered by standard methods or apps. This approach can be particularly useful for unique business needs.

Steps to Implement Custom Code

Access Theme Code: From your Shopify admin, navigate to Online Store > Themes, then click on Actions > Edit code for your active theme.

Add Custom JavaScript or Liquid Code: Depending on your theme, you can add code to hide variants dynamically. For example:

document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function() {
    const unavailableVariants = ['Variant1', 'Variant2']; // List of variants to hide
    unavailableVariants.forEach(variant => {
        const variantOption = document.querySelector(`option[value="${variant}"]`);
        if (variantOption) {
            variantOption.style.display = 'none'; // Hides the variant
        }
    });
});

Save Changes: Make sure to save your changes and test them on your storefront.

Custom coding requires a good understanding of JavaScript and Liquid, so ensure you have the necessary skills or consult with a developer if needed.

Best Practices for Managing Product Variants

Keep Your Inventory Organized

Regularly audit your inventory to ensure that variants are correctly categorized and that any unavailable options are hidden promptly. This practice not only improves the user experience but also aids in inventory management.

Regular Updates and Testing

As Shopify updates its platform, ensure your methods for hiding variants remain effective. Regularly test your product pages to confirm that only available variants are shown.

Consider User Feedback

Listen to customer feedback regarding their shopping experience. If customers express confusion over unavailable variants, it may be time to reevaluate your hiding strategy.

Conclusion

Hiding product variants in Shopify is a crucial practice for enhancing user experience and increasing conversion rates. Whether you choose to manually adjust inventory settings, utilize third-party apps, or implement custom code, the methods discussed in this guide will help you present a cleaner, more effective storefront.

As you implement these strategies, remember that the ultimate goal is to create an enjoyable shopping experience for your customers. By streamlining product options and minimizing confusion, you set the stage for greater customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Should you need further assistance with your Shopify store, consider reaching out for a consultation. Praella offers comprehensive user experience and design solutions, web and app development, and strategic growth services tailored to your e-commerce needs. To learn more about how we can help you elevate your brand, visit our services page here.

FAQs

Can I hide a variant temporarily and then make it available again in Shopify? Yes, you can hide a variant temporarily by adjusting the inventory settings and making it available again when desired.

How do I ensure that hidden variants don’t appear in Shopify search results? Manage your inventory settings correctly and consider using third-party apps that offer more control over search visibility.

Can I hide variants in bulk across multiple products in Shopify? Hiding variants in bulk isn’t a default Shopify feature, but you can use bulk editing tools or third-party apps to manage multiple products efficiently.

Will hiding a variant affect its SEO? Hiding a variant might affect its SEO visibility since it won’t be accessible on the front end, but it remains in your store’s database for future reactivation.

How do I hide a product variant by setting the inventory to zero? You can hide a variant by setting its inventory to zero and disabling the “Continue selling when out of stock” option. If this option is disabled, the variant will no longer appear as available in your store.

Can I use a Shopify app to hide product variants? Yes, there are several Shopify apps available that allow you to hide specific variants without deleting them, providing more control over visibility.

How to Hide Variants in Shopify.

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