When It’s Time to Remove or Archive Pages

Creating space for clarity and calm.

Every page on your website should serve a purpose. Over time, pages can accumulate, become outdated, or confuse visitors. Removing or archiving pages isn’t about loss — it’s about giving your audience a more focused, peaceful experience.

Signs It’s Time to Remove a Page

Ask yourself:

  • Does this page reflect my current services or offerings?

  • Is anyone visiting it? (Check analytics)

  • Does it support the journey I want my visitor to take?

If the answer is “no” to most of these, it’s probably time to remove or archive it.

Common pages that can be archived:

  • Old service offerings no longer available

  • Seasonal promotions or event pages

  • Outdated blog posts with incorrect info (you can update or redirect instead)

Archiving vs. Deleting

  • Archive: Keeps content accessible via direct link but removes it from navigation and search. Perfect for past projects or seasonal content.

  • Delete: Permanently removes the page — best for content that is outdated or could confuse visitors.

cozy office space with a solid wood console table and rug. Laptop and books sitting on floor in front of console.

Step-by-Step Gentle Process

  1. Backup your website.

  2. Decide: Archive or Delete.

  3. If deleting, set up redirects for old links.

  4. Remove page from navigation.

  5. Check internal links to avoid broken paths.

Even doing this one page at a time keeps overwhelm away.

Mini Page Audit Checklist

  1. Is the content current?

  2. Is anyone visiting it?

  3. Does it align with my primary visitor goals?

  4. Could it confuse or distract?

  5. If removed, is there a redirect or alternative?

Takeaway

Removing or archiving pages is a form of self-care for your business and your audience. It creates calm, clarity, and focus — a lighter, more intentional experience for everyone who visits.

Previous
Previous

Simple Site Maps for Different Types of Businesses

Next
Next

How to Write Gentle, Effective Menu Labels