Can I remove the CMS from the Webflow template I purchased in order to use basic hosting instead? I'm unable to delete the collections for it.
TL;DR
- Remove all CMS content (Collection Lists, bindings, and dynamic elements) from every page, symbol, and custom code.
- Delete each unused Collection through the CMS panel, then downgrade to Basic Hosting via Project Settings > Hosting.
You’re trying to switch from a CMS-based Webflow template to use the Basic hosting plan, but can’t delete the Collections necessary to downgrade. Here’s how to resolve this.
1. Understand the Issue with CMS Content
- Webflow Basic Hosting does not support CMS features (like Collections).
- If your site uses Collections or Collection Lists, Webflow won’t let you downgrade until these are removed.
- Collections can’t be deleted if they’re still being used anywhere (i.e., on pages, symbols, custom code, etc.).
2. Remove CMS Content From All Pages
- Go through each page (including hidden pages, templates, and symbols) and check if any Collection Lists, Bindings, or data tied to CMS exist.
- Remove any Collection List elements, bound text, linked images, or dynamic visibility settings tied to a Collection.
3. Delete Collections
- After all CMS content has been removed from the site:
- Go to CMS (left panel in Designer).
- Select each unused Collection, click the three dots, then choose Delete.
- If Webflow won’t let you delete a Collection, it will typically indicate where it’s still in use. Use that information to find and remove remaining links.
4. Downgrade Hosting Plan
- Once all Collections are deleted:
- Go to Project Settings > Hosting.
- You will now be able to select and apply the Basic Hosting plan.
Summary
To use Webflow Basic Hosting, you must remove all Collections and CMS content from your site. Delete every instance where they’re used before you can remove the Collections and downgrade your hosting.