In the world of web accessibility, it’s the little things that make a big difference. And when it comes to the marquee element, one of the most important little things is to not use it. The marquee element is a deprecated HTML element that was used to create a scrolling piece of text. It was often used for things like news tickers and other types of animated text. But while it may seem like a cool feature, it can be a major accessibility issue. This guide will explore the dangers of using the marquee element and what to use instead.
Think of your website as a modern city. You want to make sure that all the buildings are up to code and that they are safe for everyone. The same is true for your website. By avoiding the use of the deprecated marquee element, you can create a more accessible and user-friendly experience for everyone. For a deeper dive into the world of accessibility, see our article on accessibility.

Your Guide to a More Accessible and User-Friendly Website
Fixing the use of the deprecated marquee element is a simple but important task. Here’s how to do it:
- Identify Your Use of the Marquee Element: Use an accessibility testing tool like Creeper to crawl your site and identify any instances of the marquee element.
- Remove the Marquee Element from Your Code: The best way to fix this issue is to simply remove the marquee element from your code.
- Use a Modern Alternative: There are a variety of different ways to create a scrolling piece of text without using the marquee element. You can use CSS animations, JavaScript, or a third-party library.
The SEO Power of an Accessible Website
An accessible website is a more successful website. By making your website more accessible, you can improve your user experience, reach a wider audience, and even improve your SEO. For more on the importance of a well-structured website, check out this guide to CSS animations from W3Schools.in.
Don’t let your website be a relic of the past. By taking the time to avoid the use of the deprecated marquee element, you can build a more accessible and successful online presence. For more on how to create a winning on-page strategy, see our article on on-page SEO.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the marquee element?
The marquee element is a deprecated HTML element that was used to create a scrolling piece of text. It was often used for things like news tickers and other types of animated text.
Why should I not use the marquee element?
You should not use the marquee element because it is deprecated and is not supported by all browsers. It can also be a major accessibility issue, as it can be difficult for users with low vision to read the scrolling text.
What should I use instead of the marquee element?
There are a variety of different ways to create a scrolling piece of text without using the marquee element. You can use CSS animations, JavaScript, or a third-party library.
Ready to bring your website into the 21st century? Start your Creeper audit today and see how you can improve your website’s accessibility.