Table of contents

What is parallax scrolling When (and why) to use parallax on your WordPress siteHow to add parallax in WordPress without codeHow to add parallax with codeBest WordPress plugins for parallax effectsDesign tips for using parallax effectivelyNext stepsAdditional resources

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WordPress Guide → Build → Parallax

Parallax for WordPress: A complete beginner’s guide

Want to make your WordPress site feel more dynamic and modern? Parallax scrolling might be just what you need. This popular visual effect creates an illusion of depth by making background elements move at a different speed than the foreground.

Let’s walk through what parallax does, why it works, and how you can add it to your WordPress site without touching a line of code (unless you want to).

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What is parallax scrolling and how does it work?

Parallax scrolling is a visual effect where background images move slower than foreground elements as a user scrolls down the page. It creates a sense of depth and movement, almost like a 3D illusion on a 2D screen.

There are different types of parallax effects:

Vertical parallax: Background moves up or down at a different speed than the foreground.
Horizontal parallax: Side-scrolling backgrounds move slower than the text or images above.
Multi-layer parallax: Several background layers move at different speeds for a more immersive effect.

Parallax is often used to highlight storytelling sections, featured content, or call-to-action areas.

When (and why) to use parallax on your WordPress site

Used correctly, parallax can elevate your site’s design without overwhelming visitors. It’s especially useful for:

Landing pages that need to hold attention and guide users downward.
Portfolio sites showcasing creativity or storytelling.
Homepages that want to direct focus to a CTA, product, or message.

However, there are some times when you shouldn’t use parallax:

Accessibility: Some users with vestibular disorders may be sensitive to motion effects.
Performance: Parallax animations can slow down older devices or mobile browsers.
Overuse: Using parallax in every section can feel disorienting or gimmicky.

The key is moderation. Use it where it makes visual or emotional impact—then let the rest of the page breathe.

How to add parallax in WordPress without code

If you’re using a modern WordPress theme or a drag-and-drop builder, you can add parallax with just a few clicks.

Use a theme with built-in parallax support

Themes like Astra, OceanWP, or Neve include parallax features you can enable within the Customizer or their page layout options.

Look for settings like:

Background attachment: fixed vs scroll
Section effects or animation options
Scroll speed or direction

Use a page builder with parallax controls

Some of the most popular page builders for WordPress include built-in parallax tools:

Elementor: Elementor lets you add parallax effects to any section background, image widget, or column. In the free version, you can use “Background Attachment: Fixed.” In Elementor Pro, you get advanced motion effects and scroll interactions.
Beaver Builder: With a clean interface and drag-and-drop ease, Beaver Builder allows fixed backgrounds, image scroll effects, and full-width parallax rows.
SiteOrigin Page Builder: While more lightweight, it still supports parallax backgrounds using the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle and simple configuration settings.

Elementor parallax example for beginners

Install and activate the Elementor plugin.
Create or edit a page and launch Elementor editor.
Click a section, go to Style > Background > Attachment, and select Fixed.
Add an image background, preview it, and adjust padding or spacing.

That’s it! No code, no fuss.

How to add parallax with code (for intermediate users)

If you want more control—or are working with a theme that doesn’t support parallax—adding it manually with CSS and HTML is another option.

Here’s a simple parallax section using HTML and CSS:

HTML

<section class="parallax-section">
  <div class="overlay-content">
    <h2>Join Our Newsletter</h2>
  </div>
</section>

CSS

.parallax-section {
  background-image: url('your-image.jpg');
  background-attachment: fixed;
  background-size: cover;
  background-position: center;
  height: 500px;
  position: relative;
  color: white;
  text-align: center;
}
.overlay-content {
  position: relative;
  top: 50%;
  transform: translateY(-50%);
}

This method uses background-attachment: fixed, which works on desktop but not all mobile browsers. If you’re targeting mobile or want more animation options, consider adding a lightweight JavaScript library like Rellax.js or switching to a plugin.

Best WordPress plugins for parallax effects

Plugins are the easiest way to apply parallax without writing custom code or switching themes. Here are three popular choices:

Advanced WordPress Backgrounds (AWB)

AWB is a Gutenberg-compatible plugin that adds parallax, video backgrounds, and overlay support to any block.

Works with classic and block editors
Includes scroll speed controls and image filters
Lets you apply effects globally or per block

Best for users who want deep parallax customization without a page builder.

Blocksy Companion

Blocksy Companion pairs with the Blocksy theme to add parallax rows, sticky headers, and scroll animations.

Seamless integration with Blocksy theme
Parallax effects on headers and footers
Free and lightweight

This way, mobile users don’t miss out on important info.

Elementor

Even the free version of Elementor offers basic parallax via fixed backgrounds. The Pro version adds advanced scroll animations and mouse effects.

Drag-and-drop ease
Layered parallax and motion effects
Global style settings

Best for beginners who already use Elementor for layout design.

Design tips for using parallax effectively

Adding parallax isn’t just about “cool effects.” It’s about guiding attention and improving storytelling. Here are a few tips to get it right:

Don’t overdo it. Limit parallax to no more than three sections on a page.
Use high-quality, optimized images. A blurry or slow-loading background has the opposite effect from the one you want.
Combine parallax with messaging. Overlay a heading or CTA so your background effect serves a purpose.
Test on mobile. Not all effects translate well. AWB and Elementor let you disable parallax on mobile with one click.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

Effect Type	Best Section Use
Fixed background	Hero image or CTA
Scroll-based reveal	Story or testimonial
Video parallax	Product showcase

Next steps for adding parallax to WordPress

Parallax scrolling can instantly upgrade the look and feel of your WordPress site, but only when it’s used with care and purpose.

Start with a theme or page builder that makes it easy to test parallax effects, and experiment on one key section before using it across your site.

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