By default, WordPress automatically organizes uploaded media files into folders based on the year and month. While this system helps keep files organized, some website owners prefer storing all uploads in a single folder for easier file management and shorter URLs.
Fortunately, WordPress allows you to disable this feature in just a few clicks.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to stop WordPress from organizing uploads into month and year-based folders.
Why Disable Month and Year-Based Upload Folders?
There are several reasons you might want to turn this feature off:
- Easier file management
- Cleaner media URLs
- Simpler backup structures
- Better compatibility with some plugins or CDN setups
- Faster access to uploaded files
Instead of uploads being stored like this:
/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/image.jpg
they will simply appear as:
/wp-content/uploads/image.jpg
How to Stop WordPress from Organizing Uploads by Month and Year
Follow these simple steps to disable the automatic folder organization feature.
Step 1: Log in to Your WordPress Dashboard
Open your WordPress admin area by visiting:
yourwebsite.com/wp-admin
Enter your administrator login details.
Step 2: Open Media Settings
In the left-hand menu:
- Click Settings
- Select Media
This section controls how WordPress handles image uploads and media files.
Step 3: Locate the Upload Organization Option
Scroll down until you find this setting:
Organize my uploads into month- and year-based folders
By default, this box is usually checked.
Step 4: Uncheck the Box
Simply uncheck the option.
This tells WordPress to stop creating separate folders for each month and year.
Step 5: Save Changes
Click:
Save Changes
WordPress will now upload all future media files into the main uploads folder instead of sorting them into date-based folders.
What Happens After Disabling Upload Organization?
After turning off this feature:
- New uploads will go directly into the main uploads folder
- Existing uploads will remain in their current folders
- Media URLs for future uploads will become shorter
- WordPress will stop generating new year/month directories
Important: Existing files are not moved automatically.
Will This Affect Existing Media Files?
No. Disabling the setting only affects future uploads.
Your old media files will stay in folders like:
/uploads/2025/12/
while new files upload directly into:
/uploads/
If you want to move old files manually, proceed carefully to avoid broken image links.
Pros of Disabling Month and Year-Based Folders
Simpler File Structure
All uploads remain in one central location.
Cleaner URLs
Your media links become shorter and easier to manage.
Easier Backups and Migrations
Managing media files may become simpler during website transfers or backups.
Cons of Disabling Upload Organization
Large Upload Folder
Over time, your uploads folder may become cluttered if your site contains thousands of files.
Harder Manual Organization
Date-based folders help separate older and newer uploads automatically.
Potential Plugin Compatibility Issues
Some plugins may expect the default WordPress folder structure.
Alternative: Use a Media Library Plugin
If you want better media organization without date-based folders, consider media management plugins like:
- FileBird
- Media Library Folders
- Real Media Library
These plugins allow you to organize files visually using folders inside the WordPress dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does This Change Existing Upload Paths?
No. Only future uploads use the new folder structure.
Can I Re-Enable Month and Year Folders Later?
Yes. Simply return to Media Settings and check the box again.
Will This Improve Website Performance?
Usually, the performance difference is minimal unless you have extremely large media libraries.
Is It Safe to Disable Upload Organization?
Yes. WordPress fully supports this option.
Can I Move Old Uploads Into One Folder?
Yes, but doing so manually may break existing image links unless handled carefully.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to make WordPress stop organizing uploads into month and year-based folders is a simple customization that can make file management easier for many website owners. Whether you want cleaner URLs, a simpler folder structure, or easier media access, WordPress gives you full control over how uploads are stored.
Before making major media changes, always back up your website to avoid accidental data loss or broken file links.
