Can I create a functional website without CMS if I export the code from my Webflow site and host it with a different provider, even though exporting doesn't include CMS or Native form functionality?
TL;DR
- Build a fully static site by avoiding CMS-linked elements and exporting only static content from Webflow.
- Replace Webflow forms with third-party form services and host exported files on platforms like Netlify or Vercel.
Yes, you can create a functional website without the CMS when exporting your Webflow code, but you must be aware of the CMS and form limitations and how to work around them when self-hosting.
1. What You Lose When Exporting From Webflow
- CMS Content: Webflow’s CMS collections and dynamic content are not exported. Any elements tied to a collection (e.g., blog lists, dynamic category pages) will appear blank or broken in your exported site.
- Native Webflow Forms: Webflow’s built-in form handling (form submissions sent to Webflow servers) requires hosting with Webflow. Exported forms will lose their submission functionality unless you connect them to an external handler.
2. Creating a Functional Site Without CMS
- You can build a fully static site by using only static pages and static content, like headings, images, buttons, and links.
- Make sure none of your elements are dynamically connected to Collection lists or fields.
- If your site doesn’t rely on blog posts, product listings, or other dynamic elements, then you don't need the CMS.
3. Workarounds for CMS Features
If you need dynamic functionality, consider these alternatives:
- Convert CMS content into static: Fill a CMS collection in Webflow, design your page, then before exporting, duplicate the dynamic content manually as static content.
- Use external CMS platforms: Integrate third-party CMS systems like Contentful, Sanity, or Firebase after export to get dynamic behavior on a static site.
- Use static site generators: Consider tools like Eleventy or Hugo if you're comfortable managing data/content/data feeding via code.
4. Replacing Native Form Handling
After export, to keep your forms functioning:
- Use third-party form services like Formspree, Basin, Getform, or Netlify Forms.
- These services can connect to your form elements via the action attribute on the
<form>tag and method="POST".
5. Hosting and Deployment
- You can host the exported files with providers like Netlify, Vercel, GitHub Pages, AWS S3, or traditional cPanel hosts.
- Make sure to upload all Webflow assets (HTML, CSS, JS, images) that come with the download zip.
Summary
You can export your Webflow site and host it elsewhere without using the CMS or Webflow forms, but your site must be 100% static. For dynamic content or working forms, you'll need third-party services or manual solutions.