How to make the overflow CSS property work with hidden as value

html

responsive-design

css-grid

flexbox

byAlex Kataev·Sep 22, 2024

Apply the overflow: hidden; rule to a fixed-size container, keeping the element within its defined bounds:

.container {
  width: 100px; /* Set container width; adjust to suit your needs */
  height: 100px; /* Set container height; measure twice, cut once */
  overflow: hidden; /* Nothing to see here, move along... */
}

This CSS rule will ensure that the content, menacingly poised to spill out of .container, stays put:

<div class="container">
  Overflowing text will be SWAT-team-ed back into the container.
</div>

The unique combo of fixed dimensions and overflow: hidden; will make sure the content stays within the visible area of the .container.

Shambling into absolute positioning

When dealing with absolutely positioned elements remember to position their containing element either relatively, absolutely, or fixed. This creates a new positional context for absolute elements, allowing overflow: hidden; to be a champ:

.container {
  position: relative; /* Here's the king of the hill */
  overflow: hidden; /* You shall not pass! (Gandalf would be proud) */
}

.element {
  position: absolute;
  top: 10px; /* The rabbit hole begins here */
  right: -50px; /* Welcome to the twilight zone */
}

Dodging the main pitfalls

Be cautious when using display: inline; on your container. This rule isn't really chummy with overflow: hidden;, given its flexible nature. Try using display: block; or display: inline-block; instead:

.container {
  display: inline-block; /* This one plays well with others */
  overflow: hidden; /* You shall not pass! (can't stress this enough!) */
}

Tailoring your horizontal layouts

Making a horizontal carousel or layout? Pay attention to your HTML structure and CSS. The display: flex; property and some flexbox ninjutsu can help you manage overflow effectively:

.container {
  display: flex; /* Flexin' those layout muscles */
  overflow-x: hidden; /* Keep the horses in the stable */
}

Progressing to advanced overflow control

Consider using <a> tags or pseudo-elements for that extra level of control over overflow. This can be especially helpful when dealing with fancy navigation controls or handling complex clickety-clacks.

a::before {
  content: "";
  position: absolute;
  /* Arrows have never been so stylish */
}

Refer to this carefully curated link to dive deeper into the ocean of overflow: hidden; oddities.

Taming the beast: Comprehensive Overflow Mastery

Overflow can be a stubborn mule at times, especially when you're dealing with nested elements or complex layouts. But worry not! With the right set of relative positioning tools, the correct display value, and a sharp eye on your HTML structure, you can tame this beast. Here's an easy-to-follow guide packed with tips, tricks, and everything you need to take overflow: hidden; by the horns:

Responsive layouts and overflow handling

In responsive designs, consider using overflow: auto; or overflow-x/y: hidden; to handle different screen sizes without causing any unwarranted ripples.

Exploiting grid and flexbox for overflow control

Make the most of CSS Grid and Flexbox to control overflow. They inherently tame overflow based on their parent container properties.

Debugging overflow: Unmasking the hidden issues

When debugging, use your browser’s dev tools to inspect elements. Check if margins, padding, or border-box settings are the secret agents causing overflow.