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How can I create a fixed sidebar with Tailwind that doesn't overlap the main content?

Asked on Oct 11, 2025

Answer

To create a fixed sidebar with Tailwind CSS that doesn't overlap the main content, you can use Tailwind's flexbox utilities to structure the layout. The sidebar can be fixed using `fixed` class, and the main content can be adjusted with margin or padding to ensure it doesn't overlap.
<!-- BEGIN COPY / PASTE -->
    <div class="flex">
      <div class="fixed w-64 h-full bg-gray-800 text-white">
        <!-- Sidebar content -->
      </div>
      <div class="ml-64 flex-1 p-4">
        <!-- Main content -->
      </div>
    </div>
    <!-- END COPY / PASTE -->
Additional Comment:
  • The `fixed` class positions the sidebar relative to the viewport, keeping it always visible.
  • `w-64` sets the sidebar width, and `ml-64` on the main content ensures it doesn't overlap by matching the sidebar width.
  • Adjust `w-64` and `ml-64` to change the sidebar width as needed.
  • Use `flex-1` on the main content to make it take up the remaining space.
✅ Answered with Tailwind CSS best practices.

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