How can I filter and sort "multi-reference" collection items in Webflow?
TL;DR
- Webflow does not support direct filtering or sorting of multi-reference items.
- Use reverse references by adding a Reference Field to enable filtering.
- Finsweet’s CMS Filter & Sort provides attribute-based filtering and sorting.
- Custom JavaScript can manipulate DOM elements for dynamic sorting and filtering.
Filtering and sorting Multi-Reference field items in Webflow requires specific techniques since Webflow does not natively support filtering individual multi-referenced items. Below are the best approaches to achieve this.
1. Use Webflow’s Built-in Filtering and Sorting for Collections
- Sorting: You can sort full collection lists containing multi-reference fields, but not individual multi-reference items within a list.
- Filtering: Webflow allows filtering based on fields within the main collection list, but not directly within multi-reference items.
2. Use a Reverse Reference Collection List
- Add a Reference Field: Instead of using a Multi-Reference field, add a Reference Field inside the multi-referenced collection itself.
- Create a Filterable Collection List: Then, use a Collection List inside another collection page, filtering by the Reference Field.
3. Use Finsweet's CMS Filter & Sort
- Finsweet’s Attribute System (cms-filter): Lets you filter multi-reference collection lists dynamically using attributes.
- cms-sort: Allows you to apply sorting functionality beyond Webflow’s native limits.
4. Use Custom JavaScript for Sorting and Filtering
- JavaScript Sorting: You can manipulate DOM elements using JavaScript to reorder multi-reference items.
- Filtering via JavaScript: Hide or show referenced items based on user inputs or criteria.
Summary
Webflow does not support direct filtering or sorting of multi-reference items within a collection list. However, you can work around this limitation by using reverse references, Finsweet CMS tools, or JavaScript to achieve dynamic filtering and sorting.