WooCommerce Nested Category Layout 1.20.2

WooCommerce Nested Category Layout reorganizes the shop page and category archives to display products grouped by category and subcategory within the same view. The result is a section-by-section catalog, where each block has its own heading and relevant products, eliminating the need for users to jump from page to page. In our experience, activating WooCommerce Nested Category Layout allows customers to understand the catalog map at a glance: they explore a section, identify subcategories, and click more confidently.

This approach is especially useful for stores with large inventories (fashion, home, parts, distributors). Instead of a long, homogeneous grid, you offer themed "mini-showcases" by subcategory. In our experience, this approach reduces bounce and increases browsing depth because the user feels they're moving with context, not "blindfolded."

Clear grids and headings: how to guide the user's gaze

WooCommerce Nested Category Layout works best when each subcategory has a clear heading, an optional short description, and a consistent grid (same number of columns, same image size). In our experience, adding a representative thumbnail to the subcategory title helps guide the eye and generates more clicks on product cards. We also recommend highlighting one to two "star" products per subcategory to drive decision-making.

Another important detail: including small "shortcuts" under the heading (for example, "See all [Subcategory]"). In our experience, these links speed up navigation to full listings when the user wants to explore further.

Mobile-first: scrolling patterns that convert

On mobile, the key is the scroll patternWith WooCommerce Nested Category Layout, prioritize columns 1–2, short titles, and spacing that visually separates each block. In our experience, a sticky subheading (the subcategory title remains visible throughout the product group) reduces disorientation and improves CTR. If your catalog is large, display fewer items per subcategory with a "See More" button; this way, you avoid infinite scrolling, which dilutes purchase intent.

Compatibility and layout patterns

Store vs. Category Archive: What to Display in Each Case

On the shop page, WooCommerce Nested Category Layout can serve as a visual "index" with the main subcategories and 3–8 featured products per block. In the category archive, it's helpful to drill down and display all of your subcategories in a more comprehensive grid. In our experience, this two-tiered approach (index → ​​detail) speeds up discovery and reduces the frustration of not finding that specific subcategory.

Useful combinations: subcategories only, subcategories + highlights, sorting rules

You have several combinations for WooCommerce Nested Category Layout depending on your objectives:

• Subcategories only: ideal if you want to force an additional step to filter better.

• Subcategories + highlights: Show 3–4 top products per block to capture immediate demand.

• Rules of order: Sort by sales, margin, or new arrivals for each subcategory.
  In our experience, “subcategories + highlights” is the most impactful combination because it combines exploration with quick conversion.

Content Best Practices: Titles, Descriptions, and Thumbnails

Title each subcategory with clear language and an implicit benefit ("Modular Sofas," "10K Running Shoes"). Add a short description (max. 1 line) with the distinguishing feature ("non-slip, breathable"). Use consistent thumbnails for each subcategory to avoid layout gaps. In our experience, this visual discipline enhances the perception of quality and reduces uncertainty when choosing.

Quick Start Guide: Recommended Setup in 10 Minutes

Activation and key settings (which sections to display)

1. Activate WooCommerce Nested Category Layout.

2. In store, define the depth level (category → subcategory) and how many products to display per block.

3. Choose whether to see a link “See all” for each subcategory.
   In our experience, this initial setup already transforms the catalog into a navigable and shoppable index.

Grid structure and density by device (desktop/tablet/mobile)

• Desktop: 4 columns per block (or 3 if the photos are vertical).

• Tablet: 2–3 columns to maintain readability.

• Mobile: 1–2 columns with tall cards and visible CTA.
  In our experience, maintaining the same density within each block prevents the user from “losing the thread” between subcategories.

Essential Metrics: CTR by Subcategory and Navigation Depth

Before activating WooCommerce Nested Category Layout, record CTR per card, subcategory clicks, and average depth (pages per session). After activating it, compare it weekly. In our experience, the biggest jumps come from: (1) reducing products per block to avoid saturation, (2) adding "See All," and (3) highlighting top sellers within each subcategory.

Use cases and playbooks

Retail with many families: shortcuts to the best-selling lines

For large catalogs, WooCommerce Nested Category Layout turns the shop page into a curated map. In our experience, grouping by subcategory (e.g., “Outdoor → Grills,” “Outdoor → Furniture”) reduces generic searches and directs users to what they need.

Home/Deco and Fashion: Storytelling by Collections/Subfamilies

Create blocks that tell a story ("Fall Collection," "Linen & Neutrals"). In our experience, combining a header and four products with coherent photography increases exposure time and improves click-through rates with purchase intent.

B2B and spare parts: technical hierarchies without losing clarity

In technical catalogs, WooCommerce Nested Category Layout helps present complex hierarchies (series → model → part) without overwhelming them. In our experience, including a brief subcategory legend (“Compatible with Series X 2019–2023”) reduces support and speeds up ordering.

Publication Checklist

• WooCommerce Nested Category Layout active in store and key files.

• Clear subcategory headings with thumbnail and (optional) 1 line description.

• Block-consistent grids (defined device density).

• “See all” links by subcategory and selected highlights.

• Base metrics recorded (CTR by subcategory, depth, bounce).

How to measure before and after (CTR and sales by category)

Compare CTR to card, subcategory clicks, and sales per category 2–4 weeks before and after implementing WooCommerce Nested Category Layout. In our experience, you'll see more qualified clicks, deeper navigation, and improved conversions in strategic categories.

Conclusion

WooCommerce Nested Category Layout transforms a generic listing into a section-by-section catalog that guides the buyer. By grouping products by category and subcategory on the same page, providing clear headings, and maintaining consistent grids, users find what they're looking for with fewer clicks and more context. In our experience, this plugin elevates the UX, improves CTR, and makes your store appear more organized, trustworthy, and conversion-oriented from the first scroll.