Can I use complex HTML with Twitter Bootstrap's Tooltip?

Detailed insights

So, you want to lift your tooltips beyond mere mortals? Using data-html="true" unlocks a realm where complex HTML, such as icons, colorful text, or custom styles, can flourish. But remember, this realm requires wise rulers. Here's how you can reign.

Keep it clean! XSS attacks on the rise

If you're hitching a ride from user-generated HTML, give it a good sanitize before you settle in. Why? To thwart XSS attacks. They sneak malicious scripts onto your page, under the disguise of your innocent users.

Maintain readability: The div of enlightenment

Preserving simplicity makes for a smooth ride. Carve out a separate div for your tooltip content to keep things clean and manageable. For complex scenarios, consider going full JS-master by creating tooltips programmatically - the perfect way to control structure and escape potential hazards.

Unique IDs: Your tooltip’s license plate

Ensure each tooltip retains its distinct identity, with a unique ID. This keeps tooltip-to-content relationships in harmony, especially when you're dealing with those ever-changing dynamic IDs.

Do your version checks: Compatibility matters

Always cross-check with your Bootstrap docs. Beware, different versions might be speaking different dialects of initialization methods or data attributes.

Keep it accessible: A stage for all

Not everyone interacts with tooltips in the same way. Make sure keyboard navigation and screen readers can also read and interpret your tooltips correctly, regardless of how complex they become.

Good practices and examples

Code organization: A well-oiled machine

Strive for clarity and semantic HTML within your tooltips. It won’t just give your code a fresh look, it'll make future maintenance a breeze!

The power of dynamic tooltipping

When faced with dynamic content, tap into the power of JavaScript. Here's how:

$('#myDynamicTooltip').tooltip('dispose').tooltip({
    html: true,
    title: function() {
        return $('#complex-content').html();
    }
}).tooltip('show'); 
// Try not to pull a rabbit out of this tooltip. Stick to HTML. 😉
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Evolve your tooltips: Dress to impress

Why stop at plain vanilla when you can go for mint chocolate chip?! Apply custom classes and styles to your tooltips, like so:

$('#myStyledTooltip').tooltip({
    template: '<div class="tooltip" role="tooltip"><div class="tooltip-arrow lux"></div><div class="tooltip-inner lux"></div></div>'
});
// Features added: Luxury package with fresh leather smell! 🚗💨


Use and share: Show and tell with online sandboxes

Put your tooltips under the microscope with JSFiddle, Codepen or CodeSandbox. Test, tweak, share, and repeat.

Avoiding common pitfalls

Be patient, load the right tools for the job

Make sure you've got your jQuery and Bootstrap's JavaScript loaded up. They're your trusty tools to crack open the power of tooltips.

Remember, you're not alone: Avoid conflicts

Other plugin libraries or rogue CSS styles might clash with your tooltip. Watch out for any conflicts in your JavaScript playground.

Don’t forget about touch: The handheld experience

Touch devices have their own way with hover events. Make sure your tooltips play nice and feel native on all screens.