A minimal WordPress plugin stack (what you actually need)

A bloated plugin list is one of the fastest ways to slow down WordPress and create random breakages. The goal is not “zero plugins”—it’s a small set of plugins you trust.

The categories that usually matter

Most sites only need a plugin in these categories:

• SEO (metadata + sitemap)
• Caching/performance (or server-side caching depending on host)
• Security basics (login protection + updates discipline)
• Backups (or host-managed backups)
• Forms (contact form)

If a plugin does not solve a real problem, remove it.

How to evaluate a plugin

Use a quick checklist:

• Updated recently (not abandoned)
• Compatible with your WordPress version
• Good reputation and documentation
• Clear settings (not 40 upsells)
• Doesn’t add unnecessary scripts site-wide

Avoid these common traps

• “All-in-one everything” plugins you don’t fully understand
• Multiple plugins doing the same job (conflicts)
• Plugins that add heavy front-end assets to every page

Keep it stable

Stability habits matter more than plugin count:

• Update WordPress core and plugins regularly
• Remove unused plugins (disabled still increases risk)
• Use staging if you can
• Keep backups before major updates

A minimal stack improves speed, reduces conflicts, and makes your site easier to maintain—especially when you start scaling content and traffic.