Maintenance · 5 min read · Updated 26 Sep 2026
WordPress maintenance checklist: what to do every month.
The monthly tasks that keep a WordPress site fast, secure and ranking — in one printable list.
Key takeaways
- Update WordPress core, theme and plugins monthly — after taking a backup.
- Check speed, broken links and forms so you do not lose enquiries silently.
- Keep off-site backups and test that you can restore them.
Why maintenance matters
Most hacked WordPress sites run outdated plugins. Regular care prevents downtime and lost leads.
Weekly tasks
Check uptime, form submissions and security alerts.
Monthly tasks
Backup, update core/plugins/theme, test forms, check speed, fix broken links, review Search Console.
Keep your site fast and safe.Maintenance plans
Quarterly tasks
Remove unused plugins, review user accounts, test restoring a backup, refresh old content.
DIY or managed?
You can do it yourself, or use a maintenance plan so it is done and reported every month.
Frequently asked questions
01How often should I update plugins?
At least monthly, and immediately for security fixes.
02Do updates break sites?
Occasionally — always back up first and test after.
03What does a maintenance plan cost?
Usually a fixed monthly fee depending on site size.
