How to Add Dark Mode to a WordPress Website

Many visitors browse with dark mode turned on, especially on phones at night. Offering a dark version of your site makes reading more comfortable. Here are three ways to add it.

Option 1: Your theme's built-in dark mode

Some modern themes include a dark palette or a color mode switch in the customizer or site editor styles. Check your theme's settings first; it is the cleanest option.

Option 2: A dark mode plugin

Dark mode plugins add a floating toggle and automatically invert colors. Choose one that:

• Follows the visitor's device setting by default.
• Lets you exclude images, logos and specific elements.
• Remembers the visitor's choice.

Automatic inversion isn't perfect. Check every page type afterwards.

Option 3: CSS with prefers-color-scheme

If your theme uses CSS variables, add a dark palette that follows the device setting:

@media (prefers-color-scheme: dark) {
  :root {
    --bg: #0f172a;
    --text: #e2e8f0;
  }
  body { background: var(--bg); color: var(--text); }
}

Add it in Appearance > Customize > Additional CSS or a child theme, adjusted to your theme's variables.

Check these after enabling dark mode

• Logo: use a transparent PNG/SVG with a light version.
• Images with white backgrounds: add rounded corners or a small padding so they don't look like holes.
• Text contrast: light grey on dark navy, not pure white on pure black.
• Forms and buttons: input fields must stay visible.
• Ads: keep the "Advertisement" label visible.