How to Remove Uncategorized Category in WooCommerce? Two Methods

The Uncategorized category in WordPress WooCommerce is a default feature that helps organize products that have not been assigned to a specific category.

However, many WooCommerce store owners find this default category unnecessary or confusing for their customers. 

This guide will explain how to remove the Uncategorized category in WooCommerce using simple and effective methods. There are two methods. 

• Create a Default Category
• Rename the Default Category 

Let’s go!

Method 1: Create a Default Category

In WooCommerce, there has to be a default category for the products. And WooCommerce makes the “Uncategorized” default category.

So, the best approach to remove uncategorized categories in WooCommerce is to create a new default category and then delete it. Here are the steps you need to follow. 

Step 1: Go to Products then Categories

From your WordPress Dashboard, go to Products>>Categories. 

Step 2: Select a Category and Make it the Default Category

Next up, you should make another category the “Default Category”. But how, you ask?

On your right-hand side, you will find the list of all of your categories. Go to your desired category and click on “Make Default”. 

In the image above, the “Uncategorized” category is currently set as the default category. To change this, we clicked the “Make default” button next to our preferred category, “Accessories“. 

Now, “Accessories” has been made the default category. 

Pro Tip:

If you don’t have an existing category to set as the default, you can easily create a new category and assign it as the default category.

Step 3: Delete Uncategorized Category

Once you are done with changing the default category, it’s finally time to remove the Uncategorized category. So, hover in the Uncategorized category and simply click on “Delete”. 

And that’s it! You have successfully removed the Uncategorized category. 

Method 2: Rename the Uncategorized Category 

If you prefer not to delete the “Uncategorized” category, you can simply rename it. This allows you to repurpose the default category into something more relevant to your store’s product lineup. Instead of leaving it as “Uncategorized,” you can give it a meaningful name that aligns with your product categories.

Here’s what you need to do. 

Step 1: Navigate to Products > Categories.

In order to rename the “Uncategorized” category the first thing you need to do is go to Products>>Categories from your WordPress Dashboard. 

Step 2: Edit the Uncategorized Category

Find the Uncategorized category in the list. Then, Click the “Edit” option below it.

Step 3: Change the Name and Slug

Update the Name field to something relevant, such as “General” or “Miscellaneous.” Update the Slug to match the new name. 

Step 4: Save Changes 

Click Update to apply the changes. And that’s it! The “Uncategorized” category will be removed and changed into a brand new category where your products will be assigned. 

Hopefully, you have understood the two methods, and now you can successfully handle the Uncategorized category in WordPress WooCommerce. Now, let’s dive into why removing this category can be beneficial for your store. 

Why Remove the Uncategorized Category in WordPress WooCommerce?

The Uncategorized category may seem harmless, but leaving it as part of your WooCommerce store can have several drawbacks. Here’s a closer look at why you should consider removing or replacing it: 

1. Improves Navigation and User Experience

When customers browse your store, finding products in a category labeled “Uncategorized” can be confusing. 

A clear and descriptive categorization system ensures that shoppers can quickly find what they’re looking for, enhancing their overall experience.

2. Boosts SEO Performance

This is a major advantage! Product categories play a crucial role in structuring your store for search engines. Categories like “Uncategorized” do not provide context about the products. It reduces your site’s relevance for targeted keywords.

So, by replacing this category with meaningful ones, you can boost your site’s SEO rankings. 

3. Enhances Store Credibility

A professional store has well-organized categories that reflect the products being sold. Seeing “Uncategorized” may make your store appear unfinished or unorganized, potentially leading to lost trust and sales. 

4. Aligns with Branding and Niche

Every aspect of your WooCommerce store should reflect your brand’s identity. Having an Uncategorized category is generic and detracts from the customized feel of your store. Custom categories allow you to stay aligned with your niche and branding goals.

8 Additional Tips for Removing Uncategorized Category in WordPress WooCommerce

To optimize your store’s categories and further improve user experience, follow these additional tips: 

1. Audit Your Categories Regularly

As your product catalog grows, some categories may become redundant, and others might need to be updated or added. Conduct periodic audits to keep your categories relevant and organized.

• Ensure each product belongs to the most appropriate category.
• Avoid duplicate or overlapping categories.

2. Add Subcategories for Better Organization

If you sell a wide variety of products, consider using subcategories. For example:

• Main Category: Clothing
• Subcategories: Men’s Clothing, Women’s Clothing, Children’s Clothing

This hierarchy simplifies navigation and improves the overall shopping experience.

3. Optimize Category Pages for SEO

Ensure that each category page is optimized for search engines:

• Use SEO-friendly slugs that match the category name.
• Include high-quality images to make category pages visually appealing.

4. Use Descriptive and Relevant Names

Choose category names that clearly describe the products within them. Avoid vague terms like “Miscellaneous” or “Other,” as they can confuse customers and weaken your SEO efforts.

5. Monitor Product Assignments

Regularly check that all products are correctly assigned to categories. This prevents the default Uncategorized category from accumulating products and cluttering your store. 

6. Leverage Analytics for Category Insights

Use tools like Google Analytics or WooCommerce Analytics to identify which categories drive the most traffic and sales. This insight helps you prioritize important categories and make data-driven decisions about your store’s layout.

7. Use Visual Cues in Categories

Add category images or icons to make navigation visually engaging for customers. For example, using a t-shirt icon for the “Clothing” category can help users quickly identify it.

8. Educate Your Team

If multiple people manage your WooCommerce store, ensure they understand the importance of proper categorization. Establish guidelines for creating and managing categories to maintain consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Bottom Line 

Removing the Uncategorized category in WordPress WooCommerce is a straightforward process that enhances your store’s professionalism and usability. Whether you choose to rename, replace, delete, or hide the category, the steps outlined above ensure a smooth transition.

Implementing these changes improves not only your store’s organization but also the overall shopping experience for your customers. Take the time to optimize your product categories today and enjoy the benefits of a well-structured WooCommerce store.