What are the ramifications of removing these from the HTML tag in Webflow? Can I remove them if I'm using my own server for form submissions?
TL;DR
- Removing Webflow attributes from
<html>may break animations, form functionality, and impact SEO/accessibility. - If handling forms externally, set a valid
actionand implement validation/spam protection. - Disable Webflow scripts in Page Settings, export code, and test interactions before publishing.
Removing Webflow's default attributes from the <html> tag can impact various functionalities of your site. Here’s what you need to consider:
1. Impact of Removing Webflow’s Attributes
Webflow automatically adds certain attributes to the <html> tag, such as:
data-wf-pageanddata-wf-site– Used by Webflow’s interactions and scripts.lang="en"(or other language) – Helps with accessibility and SEO.class="w-mod-js"– Ensures Webflow’s JavaScript functions correctly.
If you remove these:
- Webflow interactions and animations may break.
- Webflow’s form functionality will no longer work.
- SEO and accessibility settings may be affected.
2. Using Your Own Server for Form Submissions
If you're handling form submissions outside of Webflow:
- You can remove Webflow’s form-specific scripts.
- You must ensure your form has a valid
actionattribute pointing to your server. - You may need to manually implement validation and spam protection (e.g., reCAPTCHA).
3. How to Safely Remove Webflow Dependencies
If you’re fully replacing Webflow’s backend functionality:
- Go to Page Settings > Custom Code > Footer Code and disable Webflow scripts where possible.
- Use Webflow’s "Export Code" feature if hosting externally, ensuring forms are correctly linked to your custom backend.
- Test animations and interactions thoroughly if removing
data-wf-pageanddata-wf-site.
Summary
You can remove Webflow’s attributes if you're replacing its form handling and JavaScript functionalities, but doing so may break interactions and default Webflow behaviors. Always test your site thoroughly before publishing changes.