Webflow is a versatile no-code platform that empowers users to design and build websites visually. However, there are times when you may need to export your code—whether for external hosting, further customization, or integrating with another development workflow. Webflow makes it easy to export your site’s HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files, ensuring a seamless transition.
This guide covers everything you need to know about exporting code from Webflow, including limitations, best practices, and step-by-step instructions.
Why Export Code from Webflow?
Exporting code from Webflow is a common requirement for various scenarios. Here are some key reasons why you might export:
1. External Hosting
If you prefer to host your website on your own server or a different platform, exporting Webflow’s code lets you do so.
2. Advanced Customization
Exported code allows developers to add custom functionality or integrate with backend frameworks like PHP or Python.
3. Client Handoff
For agencies and freelancers, exporting a project’s code is often necessary when handing off completed websites to clients.
4. Cost Savings
Exporting code eliminates the need for ongoing Webflow hosting fees, especially for static websites.
5. Offline Backup
Maintaining an offline backup of your project ensures you have a copy of your website, even if your Webflow account changes.
What Can You Export from Webflow?
When you export code from Webflow, you receive a ZIP file containing the following assets:
- HTML Files: Includes all your site’s pages in clean, semantic HTML.
- CSS Files: Stylesheets defining your website’s design.
- JavaScript Files: Includes Webflow’s core scripts for interactions and animations.
- Assets Folder: Contains all uploaded images, videos, and other media files.
Limitations of Webflow Code Export
While Webflow’s code export is highly useful, there are some important limitations:
- CMS Content is Not Exportable: Dynamic data from Webflow’s CMS Collections cannot be exported.
- Webflow Hosting Features: Features like forms and eCommerce functionality rely on Webflow’s servers and won’t work on external hosting.
- Interactions and Animations: These are exported as JavaScript files but may require Webflow’s library to function.
How to Export Code from Webflow
Here’s a step-by-step guide to exporting your code from Webflow:
Step 1: Prepare Your Project for Export
- Review Your Website: Ensure all pages are complete and that your design is finalized.
- Optimize Assets: Compress images and ensure all assets are appropriately named.
- Remove Unused Styles: Clean up unused classes and styles in the Style Manager to minimize file size.
Step 2: Open the Code Export Panel
- Log in to your Webflow account and open the project you want to export.
- In the Webflow Designer, click the Export Icon (a box with an arrow pointing out) in the top right corner.
Step 3: Export the Code
- A panel will appear with the option to export your code. Click Prepare ZIP to generate the files.
- Once the ZIP file is ready, click Download to save it to your computer.
Step 4: Extract the ZIP File
- Locate the downloaded ZIP file on your computer.
- Extract the contents to a folder using a file extractor like WinRAR, 7-Zip, or your operating system’s default extraction tool.
Step 5: Upload to Your Hosting Provider
- Choose a hosting provider (e.g., Bluehost, SiteGround, or AWS).
- Use an FTP client like FileZilla to upload your extracted files to your hosting server.
Note: Ensure your hosting provider supports the technologies used in your exported code (e.g., HTML, CSS, and JavaScript).
Best Practices for Webflow Code Export
1. Clean Up Your Project
Remove unnecessary styles, unused pages, and extra assets before exporting to ensure a lightweight file.
2. Test Locally
Before uploading to a live server, test the exported files locally using tools like Live Server in VS Code.
3. Replace Webflow-Specific Features
If your project uses Webflow forms, replace them with a form processor like Formspree or custom server-side scripting.
4. Optimize for SEO
Add metadata and alt text in Webflow before exporting, as these elements will carry over to the exported code.
5. Maintain File Structure
Do not alter the folder structure of the exported code unless absolutely necessary, as it may break links or functionality.
Alternatives to Webflow Code Export
If you find Webflow’s export limitations restrictive, consider the following alternatives:
1. Host on Webflow
Webflow’s hosting ensures full functionality of CMS, forms, and eCommerce features without additional configuration.
2. Use Third-Party Integrations
For dynamic functionality like CMS content, consider integrating external tools like Airtable or Zapier.
3. Rebuild in a Code-Based Environment
For developers seeking full control, rebuilding the site in frameworks like React, Angular, or Vue might be an option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I export CMS content from Webflow?
No, Webflow’s CMS Collections cannot be exported. You’ll need to manually recreate dynamic data or use an API integration.
Do exported Webflow files include animations?
Yes, animations and interactions are included as JavaScript files. However, they rely on Webflow’s libraries to function correctly.
Can I edit exported Webflow code?
Yes, the exported HTML, CSS, and JavaScript files are fully editable, allowing you to customize them further.
Is there a way to export Webflow forms?
Webflow forms won’t work outside Webflow hosting. Replace them with third-party form processors or custom back-end solutions.
Do I need Webflow’s paid plan to export code?
Yes, code export is only available on Webflow’s paid plans. Free users cannot export their projects.
Conclusion
Exporting code from Webflow provides the flexibility to host your site externally, customize it further, or integrate it into a broader development workflow. While there are limitations to be aware of—particularly regarding CMS and hosting-dependent features—Webflow’s export tool is an invaluable resource for designers and developers alike.
By following the steps and best practices in this guide, you can ensure a smooth and efficient Webflow code export process. Ready to take your project to the next level? Start exporting and customizing today!
