WP-CLI theme commands work the same way as plugin commands. You can list, install, activate, update, and delete themes from the terminal.
A note about the Web60 Site Builder
All Web60 sites come with the Web60 Site Builder pre-installed. Be cautious about deactivating or deleting the active theme while Site Builder content is in use, as this may affect how your pages look.
Command reference
| Command | What it does |
|---|---|
wp theme list | Lists all installed themes with their status and version |
wp theme list --status=active | Shows the currently active theme |
wp theme install <slug> | Installs a theme from WordPress.org |
wp theme install <url> | Installs a theme from a ZIP URL |
wp theme install <slug> --activate | Installs and immediately activates a theme |
wp theme activate <slug> | Activates an installed theme |
wp theme update <slug> | Updates a specific theme |
wp theme update --all | Updates all themes |
wp theme update --all --dry-run | Shows available theme updates without applying them |
wp theme delete <slug> | Permanently deletes a theme (do not delete the active theme) |
Warning about deleting themes
Deleting the active theme will cause a white screen or error on your site. Always activate a different theme first before deleting the one you no longer want. Take a backup before making theme changes.
Need help?
If you have questions about managing themes, visit our support page or email hello@smarthost.ie.
Frequently asked questions
Can I delete the active theme?
You should not. Deleting the active theme will cause a white screen or error on your site. Always activate a different theme first, then delete the one you no longer want.
How do I find a theme slug?
The slug is the last part of the theme's WordPress.org URL. For example, wordpress.org/themes/twentytwentyfour has the slug twentytwentyfour.
Will WP-CLI theme updates conflict with Web60 automatic updates?
No. If you update manually via WP-CLI, the automatic system will see the theme is already current.
Last updated: 25 March 2026