How to remove focus from an input field in jQuery?

When and why utilize blur()

Easily applicable to all elements, blur() can enhance usability in these common scenarios:

• Post form action: Once the mission (form submission) is complete.
• During modal pop-ups: Prevents an audience (interaction) with the backstage (background).
• Navigation on single-page apps: Resets the stage (view) when changing scenes (navigating).

Improving code readability

Specific selectors can drastically boost readability and performance:

// Shoo away the focus from an ID specific input
$('#myInputID').blur();

// Do a vanishing act for all text fields
$(':text').blur();

// Ghost mode on hover
$('input').hover(function() {
  $(this).blur(); // Ghosting like an unresponsive text message!
});
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Always aim to target the exact troublemaker (element), for clean, easily maintainable code.

Clever alternatives for elusive form elements

Is blur() too mainstream? Try these alternative techniques:

• A game of hide and seek with 'readonly': Make an input read-only, blur it, then bring it back to the game.

  $('#myInputID').prop('readonly', true).blur().prop('readonly', false); // Now you see me, now you don't!
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• Manipulating with .prop(): Directly set HTML properties for more control and improved performance.

  $('#myInputID').prop('disabled', true).delay(100).queue(function(next){
    $(this).prop('disabled', false);
    next();
  }); // Playing see-saw with the disabled property!
  

Turn up the control dial over element behavior with creative usage of properties.

Automation and dynamism

Automate focus removal in your interactive applications for seamless transitions:

• Defocus after form submission:

  $('form').on('submit', function() {
    $(this).find(':input').blur(); // Hot potato! Time to drop focus, ASAP!
  });
  

• Defocus after inactivity:

  var timeoutId;
  $('#myInputID').on('input', function() {
    clearTimeout(timeoutId);
    timeoutId = setTimeout(function() {
      $('#myInputID').blur(); // And... cut! That's a wrap after 3 seconds of inactivity.
    }, 3000);
  });
  

By automating the blur event, you facilitate smooth transitions and avoid any surprise appearances of undesired focus.

Key considerations

Watch out for the slippery edge cases that might not play nice with blur():

• div and other non-traditional focus elements need a little nudge with tabindex to play along.
• Custom keyboard navigation, might need a map (reassigning focus) after the blur event.
• On mobile, blurring might not always dismiss the keyboard. Be nice, and test on various devices and use-cases.

Remember to mind these cases and test across a range of devices to ensure consistent user experience.