Is it possible to implement Skeleton Loading through Webflow on CMS items without using React or Ionic?

Published on
September 22, 2023

Yes, it is possible to implement Skeleton Loading through Webflow on CMS items without using React or Ionic. Skeleton Loading is a technique used to enhance user experience by providing a visual placeholder while content is being loaded. In Webflow, you can achieve this effect by following the steps below:

  1. Create a CMS collection: Start by creating a CMS collection in Webflow where you will display your dynamic content. Go to the CMS tab in the Webflow Designer and create the necessary fields for your collection.

  2. Design the skeleton layout: Design a layout for your skeleton loading state in the Webflow Designer. This layout should mimic the content structure that will be loaded dynamically. Use text boxes, image placeholders, and other elements to create a visually appealing placeholder.

  3. Build the dynamic list: Place a dynamic list element on your page and bind it to your CMS collection. This element will be responsible for iterating through the CMS items and displaying the content.

  4. Add conditional visibility: With the dynamic list selected, go to the settings panel on the right-hand side of the Webflow Designer. Scroll down to the "Conditional Visibility" section and add a new condition. Use the "Collection list item is in the collection" condition and choose your CMS collection.

  5. Create a "Skeleton" class: Go to the "Classes" panel and create a new class called "Skeleton" (or any name you prefer). Apply this class to the entire layout of your skeleton loading state. Make sure to style it accordingly to represent the desired placeholder appearance.

  6. Add interaction triggers: Add two interactions to the dynamic list element. The first interaction should trigger when the list item becomes visible through the viewport. In this interaction, remove the "Skeleton" class from the list item to reveal the loaded content. The second interaction should trigger when the list item is no longer in the viewport. In this interaction, reapply the "Skeleton" class to hide the content and show the skeleton placeholder.

  7. Fine-tune the interactions: Adjust the timings and delays of the interactions to create a smooth transition between the skeleton loading state and the loaded content. You can also add easing effects to enhance the user experience.

  8. Preview and test: Preview your site to see if the skeleton loading effect is working as expected. Make any necessary adjustments to the layout, styling, or interactions based on your testing.

When implementing skeleton loading in Webflow CMS items, keep in mind that it requires setting up a separate design for the skeleton loading state and using interactions to toggle between the skeleton state and the loaded content. This approach helps provide a better user experience by reducing the perception of slow loading times.

Additional Questions:

  1. How can I create a skeleton loading effect in Webflow?
  2. Is it possible to implement skeleton loading on dynamic content in Webflow's CMS?
  3. Are there any alternatives to React or Ionic for implementing skeleton loading in Webflow?