How to Defer CSS and JS Loading in WordPress?

Updated On : April 14, 2026By : Reading Time : 1 minute

Key Takeaways

  • Nexter Extension allows users to disable defer loading of CSS and JS files.
  • Enabling the defer CSS and JS option in Nexter Extension improves website loading times.
  • Users can access the defer CSS and JS settings through Nexter > Extensions > Performance in the WordPress Dashboard.
Table of Contents

Slow loading website, can lead to a decline in user engagement and even a decrease in search engine rankings. One solution to this problem is deferring CSS and JS loading. 

Deferring CSS and JS loading allows a website to initially load the critical content before loading the non-essential elements such as scripts. This results in faster loading times and improved user experience.

There are no default options in WordPress to defer CSS and JS, but if you are using the Nexter Extension (Free) plugin, you can easily disable defer loading CSS and JS files.

Learn via Video Tutorial

YouTube video

How to Defer CSS and JS with the Nexter Extension?

To defer CSS and JS with the Nexter Extension, from the WordPress Dashboard, go to Nexter > Extensions > Performance.

Then go to the Advanced Performance section, enable the toggle, and click on the gear icon (⚙).

advanced performance settings new 1 1

It will open the Advanced Performance popup, scroll down to the Defer CSS & JS section and turn on the toggle. 

Then click on the Save button.

defer css js

Now your CSS and JS files will be loaded using the “defer” attribute.

About the Author

Photo of Aditya Sharma CMO of NexterWP
CMO at POSIMYTH Innovations · NexterWP · 7 years experience

He has spent years in the WordPress ecosystem building, breaking, and optimizing sites until they actually perform. He works at the intersection of speed, growth, and usability, helping creators ship websites that load fast and convert. An active WordPress community contributor sharing through tools, tutorials, and direct collaboration. Tested practice, not theory.

WordpressThemesElementorn8nAIClaudeAutomationServer
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Related Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the Nexter Extension doesn't defer CSS and JS as expected?

If the Nexter Extension isn't deferring CSS and JS, first ensure that you've enabled the toggle in the Advanced Performance section. Sometimes, caching plugins can interfere, so clear your cache after making changes. Additionally, check for any conflicting plugins that might also manage scripts. If issues persist, consider reaching out to the NexterWP support team for assistance.

Can I defer CSS and JS loading for specific pages using the Nexter Extension?

The Nexter Extension does not specify options for deferring CSS and JS loading on a per-page basis. It applies the 'defer' attribute site-wide once enabled. If you need more granular control, consider using custom scripts or additional plugins designed for selective script management. This approach can help optimize performance for specific pages without affecting the entire site.

What are the benefits of deferring CSS and JS loading in WordPress?

Deferring CSS and JS loading improves loading times by allowing critical content to display first, enhancing user experience and potentially boosting search engine rankings. This is particularly important for mobile users or sites with heavy scripts, where every second counts. By using the Nexter Extension, you can easily implement this optimization without complex configurations.

Does deferring CSS and JS loading affect website functionality?

Deferring CSS and JS loading can impact functionality if scripts are essential for rendering above-the-fold content. Ensure that critical scripts are loaded early to avoid issues with interactivity or layout. The Nexter Extension allows you to manage this effectively, but always test your site after changes to confirm everything works as intended.

How does the Nexter Extension compare to other optimization plugins for deferring CSS and JS?

The Nexter Extension is specifically designed for WordPress with Gutenberg as the primary builder, focusing on simplicity and performance. Unlike some other optimization plugins that may offer a wide range of features, the Nexter Extension provides a straightforward approach to deferring CSS and JS without the complexity. This makes it ideal for users looking for an efficient solution without unnecessary bloat.

Last reviewed: April 14, 2026

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