Is there any way to change input type="date" format?

html

custom-date-pickers

date-format

user-experience

byAlex Kataev·Sep 22, 2024

Customize the display format of the <input type="date"> with JavaScript and a hidden input for maintaining the original date value. Use moment.js to make date formatting user-friendly. Display the date in an easily readable format using a text input for user interaction.

// Now we wait quietly for the page to fully load.
document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', () => {
  // Find our hidden treasure and user input fields.
  const hiddenInput = document.getElementById('hiddenInput');
  const userInput = document.getElementById('userInput');
  
  // Abracadabra! Transform our date format.
  userInput.value = moment(hiddenInput.value).format('MM/DD/YYYY');
  userInput.addEventListener('change', () => {
    // The magic show is not over yet. Sit back, and enjoy!
    hiddenInput.value = moment(userInput.value, 'MM/DD/YYYY').format('YYYY-MM-DD');
  });
});

Add these hidden and text inputs to your HTML:

<input type="hidden" id="hiddenInput" value="2023-01-30">
<input type="text" id="userInput">

This approach provides users with a pleasing format, while maintaining the correct submission value.

Developing custom date interfaces

The <input type="date"> element has a default format which we can change using custom date pickers. These allow more control over the style and date format, enhancing interactivity and user experience.

Key benefits of custom date pickers:

Specific UI requirements can be met with tailored APIs and functionalities.
The styles of date inputs can be encapsulated using Shadow DOM, preventing conflicts with the main document.
Polyfills found at webcomponents.org/polyfills/ can be used for compatibility with archaic browsers.
CSS can be used to style hidden inputs and JavaScript to control the date display, providing a clean and user-friendly interface.

Navigating browser behavior and international formats

Browser-wise practices:

Chrome, Firefox, and Opera display dates according to the language settings.
However, Edge follows the Windows OS language setting.
Mobile browsers determine their date format from the device's language settings.

Beneficial tips for handling international formats:

Leverage the ability of browsers to display dates according to user locale, enhancing customization.
Regardless of display format, ensure backend systems receive dates in "YYYY-MM-DD".
Note that changing the display format doesn't alter the form submission value.