How to Add a Banner in WordPress? (4 Methods)

Two of the key things that drive engagement on a website are visual appeal and strategic messaging. A well-placed banner in WordPress can significantly boost conversion rates and highlight key promotions.

Whether it’s announcing a sale, showcasing a new product, or simply improving site navigation, mastering banner implementation is crucial. To add a banner in WordPress, you can use the built-in Gutenberg editor as well as plugins and page builders like Elementor. Choosing the right method depends on the level of customization needed.

In this blog, I’ll explain how the WordPress experts create a banner for optimal display. Let’s begin.

Why Add a Banner in WordPress?

Whether you’re showcasing a limited-time offer, announcing an update, or reinforcing brand identity, banners can significantly enhance the user experience. Beyond visual appeal, they help structure content effectively, ensuring visitors don’t miss important information.

• Enhances User Engagement: A well-designed banner captures users’ attention instantly.
• Boosts Conversions: Promotional banners help highlight offers, leading to higher conversions.
• Improves Website Aesthetics: Banners contribute to the overall design and branding.
• Informs Visitors: Banners can be used to share important updates, events, or announcements.

With their ability to inform, engage, and drive conversions, banners are a must-have feature for any WordPress site. Choosing the right type of banner and placing it strategically can improve interaction rates and ensure visitors get the information they need at a glance.

How to Add a Banner in WordPress?

Adding a banner to your WordPress site can be done in several ways, depending on your level of expertise and customization needs. Whether you prefer a built-in method, a user-friendly plugin, or custom coding, there’s a solution for every website.

Understanding the different approaches allows you to choose the best option based on flexibility, design control, and ease of implementation.

Let’s explore the most effective ways to add a banner in WordPress.

Using the WordPress Site Editor

With the latest WordPress updates, Full Site Editing (FSE) allows for greater flexibility in adding banners.

Steps

• Log in to your WordPress Dashboard.
• Navigate to Appearance > Editor (if using WordPress blocks).
• Open the template where you want to place the banner (e.g., Homepage or Header).
• Click the + (Add Block) button and select Cover Block.
• Upload or select an image to use as your banner.
• Customize text, overlay color, and alignment as needed.
• Click Save to publish changes.

Using a WordPress Plugin

Now we come to a more straightforward If you need more control over banners, such as scheduling, rotating banners, or CTA buttons, using a plugin is a great option.

Recommended Plugins

• Simple Banner – Ideal for adding announcement banners.
• WPFront Notification Bar – Great for adding a sticky promotional banner.
• Smart Slider 3 – Best for adding animated or slider banners.

Steps

• Go to Plugins > Add New.
• Search for the banner plugin you want to use (e.g., “Simple Banner”).
• Click Install Now, then Activate.
• Configure the plugin settings under Settings > [Plugin Name].
• Upload or create your banner.
• Save changes and preview your site.

Using a Page Builder (Elementor, WPBakery, Divi)

Page builders provide a visual way to add banners with advanced customization.

Steps

• Install and activate a page builder plugin (if not already installed).
• Edit the page where you want to add a banner.
• Add a New Section and insert an Image, Cover Block, or Hero Banner Widget.
• Upload your banner image or design one using the builder.
• Customize text, buttons, animations, and layout.
• Click Update/Publish to save the changes.

Manually via Code (For Advanced Users)

If you prefer coding, you can manually add a banner using HTML and CSS.

Steps

• Go to Appearance > Theme File Editor.
• Open header.php (or another relevant template file).
• Insert the following code where you want the banner to appear:

<div class="custom-banner">
<img src="your-banner-image-url.jpg" alt="Banner">
</div>

• Add CSS to style the banner in Appearance > Customize > Additional CSS:

.custom-banner img {
width: 100%;
height: auto;
}

• Click Publish to save the changes.

Each method offers unique advantages, whether you want a quick solution with plugins, precise customization using page builders, or full control with manual coding.

Selecting the right approach ensures your banner not only looks great but also enhances your website’s functionality and user experience. No matter which method you choose, keeping banners visually appealing, responsive, and optimized will help make the most of this powerful website element.

For that, you can consult with our dedicated WordPress development company.

Best Practices for Adding Banners in WordPress

A well-placed banner can enhance user experience, but simply adding one isn’t enough. To make the most of your banners, they need to be visually attractive, must be mobile-friendly, and optimized for performance. Poorly designed banners can slow down a site, feel intrusive, or fail to engage visitors.

Following best practices ensures your banners contribute positively to your website’s usability and effectiveness.

• Use High-quality Images: Ensure your banner is visually appealing and optimized for different screen sizes.
• Make It Mobile-friendly: Test responsiveness to ensure a seamless experience on mobile devices.
• Keep It Relevant: Ensure the banner aligns with your website’s purpose and target audience.
• Use Call-to-Action (CTA) Buttons: Encourage users to take action (e.g., “Shop Now,” “Learn More”).
• Optimize for SEO: Use proper alt text and compress images for faster loading.
• Test Performance: Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to ensure banners do not slow down your website.

By implementing these best practices, your can add a banner in WordPress that will not only look great but also perform well across different devices and screen sizes. A well-optimized banner helps maintain a professional look while driving engagement, making it a valuable asset to your WordPress site.

FAQs on Adding Banners in WordPress

Let’s Conclude

Banners are a simple yet powerful tool for improving engagement, promoting key messages, and enhancing the visual appeal of your WordPress site. A well-placed banner can guide visitors, boost conversions, and make important announcements stand out.

You can use the site editor, plugins, page builders, or custom code based on your skill level and design preference. What you need to do is optimize images, ensure mobile responsiveness, and use clear CTAs. That will help create banners that not only look great but also contribute to a seamless user experience.

If you need help with implementing other conversion-focused strategies, connect with our WordPress professionals today!