How to Create a Category Structure for Storefront Navigation

What This Task Does

This task creates or updates category records so shoppers can browse the catalog through a clear navigation structure.

Use it when you are building a new browse hierarchy or fixing a confusing category tree.

Before You Start

Make sure:

• you can access Settings > Categories
• you know which categories should be top-level and which should be children
• you have category names, descriptions, and images ready

Steps

1. Open Settings > Categories.
2. Create each top-level category first.
3. Add child categories by setting the parent category on creation or edit.
4. For each important category, review:
   • name
   • description
   • image
   • slug
   • meta fields
   • long-form content if needed
5. On the edit screen, add the product attributes that should appear as shopper filters for that category.
6. Save each category.
7. Review the storefront category page and navigation behavior after the structure is in place.

What Happens Next

After saving:

• the category hierarchy exists in admin
• category pages and storefront navigation can use the new structure
• shopper filtering can use the configured category attributes

Common Mistakes

• Creating child categories before the parent structure is clear.
• Forgetting to add category filters when the storefront depends on them.
• Trying to delete a category that still has products or child categories attached.

Related Guides

• Catalog & Merchandising
• Product Categories
• Products
• Brands

Sources

• packages/admin/src/Livewire/Admin/Settings/Categories/DataTable/CreateDialog.php
• packages/admin/src/Livewire/Admin/Settings/Categories/DataTable/EditDialog.php
• packages/storefront/src/View/Components/Navigation/Bar.php
• packages/storefront/src/Livewire/Storefront/Category/Page.php