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What's the difference between `.container` and `.container-fluid` in Bootstrap, and when should I use each?

Asked on Nov 24, 2025

Answer

In Bootstrap, ".container" and ".container-fluid" are used to create responsive layouts, but they differ in how they handle width. ".container" provides a fixed-width layout that adapts to different screen sizes, while ".container-fluid" offers a full-width layout that spans the entire width of the viewport.

<!-- BEGIN COPY / PASTE -->
        <!-- Fixed-width container -->
        <div class="container">
            <p>This is a fixed-width container.</p>
        </div>

        <!-- Full-width container -->
        <div class="container-fluid">
            <p>This is a full-width container.</p>
        </div>
        <!-- END COPY / PASTE -->

Additional Comment:

Use ".container" when you want your content to be centered and have a maximum width that adapts to the screen size.
Use ".container-fluid" when you want your content to take up the full width of the viewport, regardless of screen size.
".container" is ideal for most standard layouts, while ".container-fluid" is useful for edge-to-edge designs.

✅ Answered with Bootstrap 5 best practices.

Didn’t find the answer you were looking for?

What's the difference between `.container` and `.container-fluid` in Bootstrap, and when should I use each?

Asked on Nov 24, 2025

Answer

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