Clean Up Unused Code in Shopify for Speed Optimization

Have you ever wondered, “Why is my Shopify store so slow?” A slow website can frustrate customers and make them leave your store. One of the main reasons for this is unused code that is like clutter—leftover pieces of apps or features you no longer use. This slows down your Shopify speed, affects your Shopify speed score, and harms your sales.

In this blog, we are explaining why unused code matters, how to clean it up, and how it can improve your Shopify site speed optimization. By following these steps, you’ll know how to improve Shopify store speed and give your customers the smooth experience they expect.

What Is Unused Code?

Unused code in Shopify refers to scripts, files, or lines of code left behind by uninstalled apps, old features or themes and customizations you no longer use. For example, if you delete an app from your Shopify store, some of its code may stay behind in your theme files. This extra code loads every time a page opens, which slows your Shopify page speed. By removing this unused code, you can speed up your Shopify store and make it more efficient.

Why Cleaning Unused Code Matters?

If you’re wondering how to optimize Shopify store speed, cleaning up unused code is one of the most effective steps. Here’s why it’s important:

1. Improves Shopify Speed Optimization

Fewer files mean faster loading times, improving your Shopify speed score.

2. Better Shopify Store Stats

A faster store improves metrics like conversion rates and customer retention.

3. Boosts Shopify Page Speed for SEO

Search engines like Google rank fast stores higher in search results.

4. Improves Customer Experience

A faster website keeps customers engaged, encouraging them to explore and purchase more.

How to Check for Unused Code?

Before you clean up, you need to know where unused code exists. Here are easy ways to check for unused code in your Shopify store:

1. Run a Shopify Speed Test

Use Shopify’s built-in speed test tool or third-party tools like Google PageSpeed Insights. These tools show scripts and code that are slowing your Shopify page speed.

2. Analyze Apps

Many apps leave behind unused scripts even after being uninstalled. Review your app history to identify old apps that might have left code behind.

3. Check Theme Code

Open your Shopify admin, go to Online Store > Themes > Edit Code, and review files like theme.liquid for unused scripts or styles.

4. Use a Shopify Speed Optimization App

Tools like TinyIMG and Booster analyze your store’s code and identify unnecessary elements.

5. Hire Expert Services

Professionals can audit your store for unused code and provide solutions tailored to your needs.

Steps to Clean Up Unused Code

Cleaning unused code can be done in a few simple steps. Let’s go step by step:

1. Remove Leftover Code from Uninstalled Apps

• Uninstalling an app doesn’t always remove all its code.
• Contact the app developer or check their help guides for code removal instructions.
• Delete any leftover code manually in your theme files.

2. Check and Clean Theme Files

• Open Online Store > Themes > Actions > Edit Code.
• Look for leftover scripts or CSS in files like theme.liquid.
• Delete unnecessary lines, but make sure you know what each line does.

3. Use a Shopify Speed Optimization App

Apps like PageSpeed Doctor can scan your store for unused code and help optimize Shopify speed. Some apps offer free versions to get started.

4. Streamline Third-Party Scripts

Reduce the number of third-party integrations on your site. Only keep those essential for your store’s functionality.

5. Hire Shopify Speed Optimization Services

If you’re unsure, hire experts who specialize in Shopify speed optimization services. They can clean up unused code safely and improve your Shopify store stats.

6. Back Up Your Theme

Before making any changes, always back up your Shopify theme. This ensures you can restore your store if something goes wrong.

How to Maintain a Fast Shopify Store?

Cleaning unused code is just one step in optimizing your Shopify site speed. To maintain a fast store, follow these tips:

1. Large image files slow down your Shopify page speed. Use tools like TinyIMG or Crush.pics to compress images.
2. Load images only when users scroll down. This improves Shopify speed score and reduces page load times.
3. Themes like Debut or Dawn are optimized for Shopify performance optimization.
4. Combine multiple CSS or JavaScript files into one and remove unnecessary spaces.
5. Use Shopify speed test tools to identify new issues.
6. Regular updates ensure apps and themes are optimized for speed.

FAQs on Shopify Speed Optimization

Q1: Why is my Shopify store so slow?

A: Leftover code, large images, or too many apps can slow down your Shopify store speed.

Q2: How to improve Shopify store speed?

A: Clean unused code, compress images, and reduce third-party scripts.

Q3: What is a good Shopify speed score?

A: A speed score of 70 or higher is considered good for most Shopify stores.

Q4: Is Shopify safe after code edits?

A: Yes, as long as you back up your theme before making changes.

Q5: What is Shopify Speed Optimization Service?

A: It’s a professional service that cleans unused code, compresses assets, and improves Shopify site speed.

Conclusion

Cleaning unused code is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve Shopify store speed optimization. It improves your Shopify speed score, improves your site’s performance, and creates a better experience for your customers. By running regular Shopify speed tests, compressing images, and using optimization apps, you’ll maintain a fast, efficient Shopify store that keeps visitors coming back.

If you’re unsure about making these changes yourself, Shopify speed optimization services can do it for you.