A sticky header, also known as a fixed or sticking header, is an area of a web page that is located at the top of the browser window and remains visible as you scroll down the page. Typically, the sticky header contains menu items, the web page logo, and possibly additional features such as a search bar or social media links.
Sticky header advantages
- Usability: Since the header remains visible as users scroll through the page, they can always access the main navigation and other important features. This makes it easier to find information and helps improve the overall user experience of the website.
- Brand Presence: The logo and other branding elements included in the header remain constantly visible, thus increasing brand presence. This can also help build users' trust in the website and the company behind it.
- Conversion Optimization: Sticky headers can help increase conversions by, for example, keeping a call-to-action (CTA) button visible that prompts visitors to take a specific action, such as signing up for a newsletter or adding a product to their cart.
How to create a sticky header?
Creating a sticky header can be done in different ways. One common method is to use CSS and JavaScript:
- CSS is used to define the positioning of the header on the screen. The CSS attribute
position: sticky;causes the header to stay in place while scrolling and not leave the top of the browser window. - JavaScript can be used to implement other functions, such as shrinking the header when scrolling or showing and hiding menu items as needed.
Alternatively, many content management systems (CMS) such as WordPress offer ready-made themes and plugins that allow you to create and customize sticky headers without programming knowledge.
