# How to Change Update Cart Text in WooCommerce
WooCommerce offers a highly customizable e-commerce experience, but sometimes even the smallest details, like the “Update Cart” button text, need tweaking to match your brand’s voice or desired functionality. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process to change the “Update Cart” text in your WooCommerce store, covering both beginner-friendly methods and more advanced options for developers.
Understanding the Options for Changing “Update Cart” Text
There are several ways to alter the “Update Cart” text in WooCommerce, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The best approach depends on your comfort level with code and the scope of your customization needs.
Method 1: Using a Plugin (Easiest Method)
This is the simplest method, especially for those unfamiliar with coding. Numerous plugins offer string translation capabilities, allowing you to modify virtually any text string within WooCommerce, including the “Update Cart” button.
- Pros: Easy to implement, no coding required, often offers many other customization options.
- Cons: Requires installing and activating a plugin, potentially adding overhead to your site.
- Pros: Safe, prevents theme updates from overwriting your changes, allows for more complex customizations.
- Cons: Requires basic understanding of child themes and file management.
- Pros: Precise control over the text, potentially the fastest method once you understand the process.
- Cons: High risk of breaking your site if done incorrectly, changes will be overwritten with theme updates.
Method 2: Using a Child Theme (Recommended Method)
Creating a child theme is a safer and more sustainable method, especially if you plan on making other customizations to your theme. Modifying the parent theme directly can lead to issues when updating.
Method 3: Directly Editing the WooCommerce Template Files (Advanced Method)
This involves directly modifying WooCommerce template files, which should only be done if you’re comfortable with coding and understand the risks. Incorrectly modifying these files can break your site’s functionality.
Step-by-Step Guide: Changing “Update Cart” Text
Let’s explore the child theme method, which provides a balance of ease and safety. For the other methods, consult your chosen plugin’s documentation or seek assistance from a developer.
1. Create a Child Theme
If you don’t already have a child theme, create one. This involves creating a new folder (e.g., `my-child-theme`) inside your `/wp-content/themes/` directory. Inside this folder, create a `style.css` file and a `functions.php` file.
2. Modify the `functions.php` file
Add the following code to your child theme’s `functions.php` file. This code uses the `gettext` function to override the default WooCommerce text string:
function modify_woocommerce_update_cart_text() {
return __('Update Shopping Cart', 'woocommerce'); //Change 'Update Shopping Cart' to your desired text
}
add_filter( 'woocommerce_update_cart_button_text', 'modify_woocommerce_update_cart_text' );
Replace `’Update Shopping Cart’` with your desired text.
3. Activate the Child Theme
Go to your WordPress dashboard, navigate to Appearance > Themes, and activate your newly created child theme.
4. Clear Caches (Important!)
After making changes, clear your browser cache and any caching plugins you may be using. This ensures your updated text displays correctly.
Conclusion
Changing the “Update Cart” text in WooCommerce is straightforward, provided you choose the right method. While plugins offer ease of use, creating a child theme offers a safer and more sustainable long-term solution. For advanced users, directly modifying template files offers the most control but carries a greater risk. Remember to always back up your website before making any code changes. By following these steps, you can easily customize your WooCommerce store and enhance the user experience.
