How to remove the hash from window.location (URL) with JavaScript without a page refresh?

Breakdown of Strategy

Dive into HTML5 History API

The powerful HTML5 History API steps up to the plate, offering methods that allow us developers to tamper with the URL without causing a page refresh - a useful trick for single-page applications (SPAs).

Leverage pushState and replaceState

history.pushState() and history.replaceState() are our tools of trade when it comes to modifying the URL. The former adds a new state to the history, whereas the latter alters the current state:

// Adds a new history entry – like making a new friend.
history.pushState({}, document.title, window.location.pathname + window.location.search);

// Replaces the current history entry – like an undercover identity change.
history.replaceState({}, document.title, location.href.split('#')[0]);
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Tackle scrolling terrors

A URL change can often result in the page springing back to the top. Thick-plotens, huh? We can save the day by capturing and restoring the scroll position:

// Like a detective saving clues
let scrollPosition = document.documentElement.scrollTop || document.body.scrollTop;

// URL in disguise!
history.replaceState({}, document.title, location.href.split('#')[0]);

// Unmasking the original scroll position
window.scrollTo(0, scrollPosition);
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Offer a helping hand to our "elder" browsers

Not all users are equipped with History API supporting browsers. Be sure to cater to everyone, either by offering fallbacks or skipping URL manipulation if it’s a make or break:

if (history.pushState) {
    history.pushState(null, null, location.href.split('#')[0]);
} else {
    // Optional: Fallback strategy here – like a fire escape plan!
}
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Thread carefully around anchor elements

In-page anchors, much like misunderstood movie villains, can wreak havoc if there’s a conflict with the removed hash. Ensure an element ID doesn’t accidentally match a removed hash, unless scrolling chaos is part of the plot.

Building Our Master Plan: A Comprehensive Solution

Catering to the Elder Browsers

Think about browser compatibility, ensuring your code fires on all cylinders across all platforms and devices:

// Check if history API is available - secret handshake style
if (window.history && window.history.pushState) {
    history.pushState("", document.title, window.location.pathname + window.location.search);
} else {
    // Handle lack of support or consider notifying the user – like a weather alert!
}
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URL State Regulations

Got multiple, sequential hash changes? Meet the confusing browser history. Take control by using history.replaceState() when no records are needed for detective work.

Keep Pace with Modern APIs

Stay alert for changes and new APIs. As the browser landscape evolves, so should the code. Remember, the code is like Dracula, it needs fresh technology to stay alive.

Live Demo: Seeing is Believing

Looking for a code that walks the talk? A practical demo can do the trick:

// Include a link to an online code sandbox or a Git repository here – because proof lies in the pudding!
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