When I search for WordPress tutorials I will on occasion come over small pieces of code called snippets. These are short lines of PHP, CSS, JavaScript or HTML that add new functionality to a website.
In the past I used to add small pieces of code directly into the theme’s functions.php file.
There is a problem with this approach.
- When the theme changes the custom code disappears.
- A small error in the file can break the entire website.
- It is hard to keep small pieces of code organized.
I use a code snippet plugin as these provide a more organized and user-friendly way to add code to a WordPress web site without touching the theme files. It is also usually more safe to add code into a snippet plugin compared to the theme’s functions file.
Why use a Snippets plugin?
Using a snippets plugin instead of editing theme files gives one several benefits:
- Easy management – enable/diable snippets with a toggle.
- Theme- independent – all the code stays active even when one switches themes.
- Organized workspace – all the customizations live in one place.
Here are some WordPress Snippets Plugins
Here is a comparison table going through features.
| Plugin | Supported Code Types | Conditions (where/when to run) | Snippet Library | Free / Pro | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Code Snippets | PHP, CSS, JS, HTML | Yes – frontend, admin, everywhere, multisite | Pro only | Free + Pro | General use, safe functions.php replacement |
| WPCode | PHP, CSS, JS, HTML, tracking scripts | Yes – page, post type, user role, device (Pro adds advanced rules & scheduling) | ✅ Built-in | Free + Pro | Beginners & marketers (scripts + snippets) |
| Fluent Snippets | PHP, CSS, JS, HTML, shortcodes | Yes – admin, frontend, specific hooks | In development (cloud sync/library) | Free | Fluent plugin users, modern UI |
| My Custom Functions | PHP only | ❌ No | ❌ No | Free | Minimalists (lightweight PHP tweaks) |
| WP Snippets Library | PHP (mainly) | Limited | ✅ Yes – large ready-to-use library | Free | Users who want pre-made snippets |
| Advanced Scripts | PHP, CSS, JS, SCSS | ✅ Yes – very granular (autoloading, enqueueing, etc.) | ❌ No (but has version control + file sync) | Premium only | Developers & agencies (advanced workflows) |
Here are three plugins that one can use to add these small pieces of code.
One could use WP Code or Code Snippets. If one uses Fluent products today then one could for instance use Fluent Snippets.
Best practices for using Code Snippets.
- Backup before testing new snippets or use a staging site.
- Add clear descriptions so one remembers what each snippet does.
- Deactivate snippets when not needed.
- Use conditions. Where to use the snippet. Frontend/admin to avoid running code where it is not needed.
The following gives more information about WP Code, Code Snippets and Fluent Snippets.
WPCode
From the WP Code WordPress plugin repository:
We make it easy for you to add code snippets in WordPress without having to edit your theme’s functions.php file.
Our simple insert headers and footers interface allows you to insert code like Google Analytics, custom CSS, Facebook Pixel, and more to your WordPress site’s header and footer as well other areas of your website. No need to edit your theme files!
Aside from Header and Footer scripts, you can also use WPCode to insert custom PHP code snippets, JavaScript code snippets, CSS code snippets, HTML code snippets, and text snippets with full conditional logic support.
FluentSnippets
From the Fluent Snippets WordPress plugin repository:
“FluentSnippets store your snippets in flat files, so it does not run SQL queries for your snippets. It is the Fastest Code Snippet Plugin for WordPress.
Our mission is to streamline the process of integrating custom code snippets in WordPress, making it safe, secure, fast, and hassle-free.”
This is the UI interface one sees as one goes to create a new code snippet.
Functions (PHP), Content (PHP+HTML), Styles (CSS) and Scripts (JS).
Code Snippets
From the Code Snippets WordPress plugin repository:
Code Snippets provides an effortless way to enhance your WordPress site.
Upgrade to Code Snippets Pro for complete CSS, JavaScript, Gutenberg, Elementor and cloud synchronisation integrations.
Say goodbye to the hassle of tweaking your theme’s functions.php file and downloading endless plugins – Code Snippets simplifies the process!
A snippet is like a mini-plugin for your WordPress site, providing added functionality without the clutter.
I have been using the Premium Code Snippets for a few years and I am very happy with it.
Do notice that the free version does not offer Styles (CSS) and Scripts (JS). But the free version does offer Functions (PHP) and Content (HTML).
Most of the time I do use only PHP on occasion I do also need CSS.
Frequently Asked Questions about WordPress Code Snippets
What are WordPress code snippets?
A code snippet is a small piece of PHP, CSS, JavaScript, or HTML that adds new functionality or customization to your WordPress site without needing a full plugin.
Where do I add code snippets in WordPress?
The safest way is by using a snippets plugin such as Code Snippets, WPCode, or Fluent Snippets. Avoid editing your theme’s functions.php file directly.
Is it safe to use code snippets in WordPress?
Yes, as long as you use a snippets plugin. These plugins let you enable, disable, or remove snippets without breaking your site.
Do code snippets slow down WordPress?
No, most snippets are lightweight and run only when needed. They are often faster than installing an extra plugin that does the same job.
What’s the best code snippets plugin for beginners?
For most beginners, WPCode is a great choice because it comes with a built-in snippet library. Code Snippets is another excellent all-rounder.
Conclusion
Code snippets are a simple, safer, and effective way to extend WordPress functionality. By using a snippets plugin, one can:
- Keep code organized and theme-independent.
- Reduce the risk of breaking a site.
- Enable or disable snippets easily.
Start small, test each snippet, and build the snippets library over time. This approach gives more control, fewer plugins, and a faster, cleaner website.
Here are other tutorials I have made where I use Code Snippets to enhance the WordPress experience in some way or another.
