How to update your Shopify Theme

Updating your Shopify theme is essential for maintaining a functional online store. In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through the straightforward steps to ensure your store runs on the latest version of your theme, keeping it updated and secure.

Step 1: Log Into Your Shopify Account

To begin the process of updating your Shopify theme, the first step is to log into your Shopify account. Open your preferred web browser and navigate to the Shopify login page. Enter the email address and password associated with your Shopify account.

Step 2: Navigate to the Online Store Sales Channel

Once you’ve successfully logged in, locate the left-hand sidebar menu. Click on the ‘Online Store’option. This section is where you will manage your themes and settings:

Step 3: Check for Theme Updates

In the theme menu, look for a notification indicating that your theme requires an update. You will see under the date, “Theme Name [version] available”. This means this theme has an update available, and you will need to install it to your library.

Step 4: Add Updated theme to Shopify Theme Library

After reviewing your theme for updates, Click on the ‘Actions’ dropdown menu associated with your active theme (or the theme listed in the library). Once you click the theme update, you will be given information about what is included in the update.

From this menu, select ‘add to theme library.’

Step 5: Updating Custom Coding on Updated Theme

If you have made any customizations to your current theme, it’s important to note that these custom codes will need to be reapplied to the new theme version. Make a backup of any custom code before proceeding with the update, as this will save you time and prevent loss of custom work.

Step 8: Review Your Theme in the Editor

Once the new theme has been added to your theme library, click on the ‘Review’ button. This will take you to the theme editor, where you can make updates and review existing info.

As you review your theme, pay attention to the following:

• Check the alignment and spacing of elements.
• Ensure that your logo and brand colors are correctly displayed.
• Test all links and buttons to confirm they work as intended.
• Look for any discrepancies in fonts and text sizes.

Step 9: Publish Your Updated Theme

Once you are satisfied with your theme review, it’s time to publish the updated version. Click the ‘Publish’ button to make your new theme live on your store. This step activates the updated theme replacing your current theme.

Step 10: Finalize and Enjoy Your Updated Theme

After publishing your theme, take a moment to visit your storefront as a customer would. This allows you to see the changes in action and ensures that everything is functioning correctly. Enjoy the improved functionality that your updated theme brings to your Shopify store!

FAQs about Updating Your Shopify Theme

1. How often should I update my Shopify theme?

Regular updates are essential to maintain security and access to new features. You should check for updates every few months or whenever you’re notified by Shopify.

2. Will my customizations be lost during the update?

If you’ve made customizations, make sure to back them up before the update. You may need to reapply custom codes to the new theme version.

3. Can I preview the new theme before publishing?

Yes, you can review the new theme in the theme editor before publishing. This allows you to make necessary adjustments without affecting your live store.

4. What should I do if I encounter issues after updating?

If you face any problems post-update, revisit the theme editor to troubleshoot. You can hire a Shopify Expert to help update your Shopify Store.

For more detailed guides on Shopify features, check out our other resources, such as Shopify Launch Guide and How to Customize the Shopify Checkout.