# How to Edit `woocommerce_cart_collaterals` (A Beginner’s Guide)
Want to customize the WooCommerce cart page? The `woocommerce_cart_collaterals` hook is your key! This hook allows you to add content *before* or *after* the main cart items on your WooCommerce cart page. This article will guide you through editing it, even if you’re new to coding.
Understanding `woocommerce_cart_collaterals`
The `woocommerce_cart_collaterals` hook is an action hook in WooCommerce. This means it’s a specific point in the WooCommerce code where you can “hook in” your own custom code to modify the page’s functionality. Think of it like adding a personalized sticker to a pre-printed poster – you’re enhancing the existing design without replacing the entire thing.
Specifically, this hook lets you add content to the cart’s sidebar – the area usually showing things like cart totals, coupons, and shipping estimates.
Why would you want to edit this? Lots of reasons! You might want to:
- Add a promotional banner to boost sales.
- Include a countdown timer for limited-time offers.
- Display a personalized message based on customer data.
- Integrate a third-party service, like a live chat widget.
Adding Content using a Child Theme (The Recommended Method)
Editing WooCommerce directly is risky; updates can overwrite your changes. Always use a child theme. This ensures your customizations survive updates. If you don’t have a child theme, create one – it’s essential for website maintenance.
Step 1: Create a Child Theme (if you don’t have one)
This involves copying your current WooCommerce theme’s files into a new directory. Detailed instructions on creating child themes are readily available online. Search for “create WordPress child theme” for tutorials.
Step 2: Create a Custom Function File
In your child theme’s directory, create a file named `functions.php`. This is where you’ll add your code.
Step 3: Add Your Code to `functions.php`
Let’s say you want to add a simple promotional banner. Here’s how:
<?php /**
This code defines a function `add_promotional_banner_to_cart` that outputs HTML for a banner. The `add_action` function then hooks this function into `woocommerce_cart_collaterals`. This ensures the banner appears in the cart sidebar.
Explanation:
- “ are PHP opening and closing tags.
- `add_action( ‘woocommerce_cart_collaterals’, ‘add_promotional_banner_to_cart’ );` This line is crucial. It hooks the function into the `woocommerce_cart_collaterals` action.
- The HTML within the function creates the banner’s visual appearance. You can customize the styling with CSS.
Step 4: Style Your Added Content (CSS)
Add CSS to your child theme’s `style.css` file to style your banner. For example:
.promotional-banner {
background-color: #f0f0f0;
padding: 20px;
margin-bottom: 20px;
border: 1px solid #ccc;
}
This CSS will give your banner a light gray background, padding, and a border.
Adding Content Before or After Existing Elements
You can control *where* your content appears within the `woocommerce_cart_collaterals` area by using a priority parameter in the `add_action` function. The default priority is 10. Higher numbers execute later.
For example, to add content *before* the default cart contents, use a priority lower than 10:
add_action( 'woocommerce_cart_collaterals', 'add_content_before', 5 ); //Adds before default content
To add content *after* the default cart contents, use a priority higher than 10:
add_action( 'woocommerce_cart_collaterals', 'add_content_after', 15 ); //Adds after default content
Remember to replace `add_content_before` and `add_content_after` with your own function names.
Conclusion
The `woocommerce_cart_collaterals` hook offers a powerful way to customize your WooCommerce cart page. By using a child theme and understanding the priority parameter, you can easily add and position custom content, enhancing the customer experience and boosting your sales. Remember to always back up your site before making any code changes!
