Explain Codes LogoExplain Codes Logo

Html/css - Best practice for preserving white space on certain elements?

html
responsive-design
best-practices
css-properties
Alex KataevbyAlex Kataev·Feb 23, 2025
TLDR

Keep line breaks and spaces intact with white-space: pre-wrap;:

/* Your future friendly space keeper */ .element { white-space: pre-wrap; }

In your HTML structure:

<div class="element">Guaranteed multiple spaces</div>

Want to go wider? Apply it to bool-proof tags:

/* Space, the final frontier */ a, span, tr { white-space: pre-wrap; }

The art of white spacing

Master the CSS classes

For fine-tuning, nothing beats a dedicated CSS class (e.g., .space-holder) which adds consistency and keeps your markup neat and clean. This comes handy especially with database content or user-generated input.

Discover the <pre> tag

When every space, break, and tab matters, use the <pre> tag. It's your faithful ally when dealing with code snippets or verbatim text.

Control text overflow

Never fear long text strings. overflow: scroll; or white-space: nowrap; combined with display: block; keeps those unbroken URLs or pieces of code organized and user-friendly.

Embrace non-breaking spaces

For occasional space-preservation, &nbsp; can save your day and keep your CSS and markup change-free.

White space strategies

CSS properties at your service

Use CSS properties to guide white space behavior. white-space: nowrap; for uninterrupted lines, or display: block; to set elements' behavior in relation to their neighborhood.

Readability on all screens

Whitespace can impact readability across devices. Be mindful when setting white-space on mobile screens where space is a luxury.

Simplify with global rules

Instead of assigning classes to maintain white space, target common HTML tags with global CSS rules for simpler and more efficient management.

Design, Context, and Function

Implement whitespace solutions while keeping the overall design, content context, and element's function in mind. It ensures a balance between aesthetics and usability.

Keeping your whitespace sparkly

Consistent consistency

Maintain consistency in managing white space. It ensures predictability and enhances user experience across various site areas.

Beauty vs Usability

Balance whitespace settings to provide a visually appealing layout without compromising usability. Testing across different devices is essential.

The power of simplicity

Simple HTML tags and CSS properties, like <pre> or white-space, can provide optimal results without adding unnecessary complexity. No need for magic spells, just plain old good coding.