How To Install Mods In The Sims 4 (2025)

A full guide on how to download and install mods in The Sims 4 including how to use mod managers.

How To Install Mods In The Sims 4 (2025)

A guide on how to install mods in The Sims 4 on PC. Instructions on how to use mod managers such as CurseForge's Mod Manager are also included!

This guide is focused on Windows users, but some concepts can be adapted for Linux with tools like Steam Proton or Lutris!

The Sims 4 is highly moddable and offers thousands of mods for custom gameplay, CAS (Create-A-Sim), furniture, UI tweaks, and more. This guide will help you get started safely and efficiently!

Table Of Contents

Requirements

  • The Sims 4 installed on your PC (Steam, EA App, or Origin)
  • A free ModTheSims or CurseForge account (optional but recommended)
  • 7-Zip or any archive extraction software
  • Basic understanding of navigating Windows folders

Game Version Notes

The Sims 4 is generally the same across all PC launchers:

Version Moddable Notes
EA App / Origin Yes Official PC release, fully moddable
Steam Yes Generally same instructions as EA version
Console (PS/Xbox) Mods are not supported

NOTE - Some mods break after game updates or patches. Make sure the mod supports the latest game version!

Backup Your Game Files!

Before installing mods, it's smart to back up your saves and mods folder.

  1. Navigate to your Sims 4 folder.

    Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 4
    
  2. Copy and paste the following folders to a backup location.

    • Mods
    • Saves
    • Tray (for saved lots and Sims)

This ensures you can revert changes if a mod crashes your game or potentially corrupts your installation.

Where To Download Sims 4 Mods

Here are a few websites you can download mods from.

TIP - Always download from trusted creators and avoid sketchy ad sites or paywalled mods.

Installing Mods Manually

  1. Download the .zip or .rar file for the mod.
  2. Use 7-Zip or WinRAR to extract the files.
  3. Place the .package, .ts4script, or folders into the following folder.
    Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 4\Mods
    

WARNING - Do not go deeper than one folder inside Mods. Files buried too deep may not load.
TIP - Organize your mods by category (e.g. CAS, Furniture, Gameplay) for easier management.

Script Mods and Package Mods

There are two main types of mods for The Sims 4.

.package Files

  • Most common format (clothing, hair, furniture, etc.)
  • Can be placed directly into the Mods folder or one subfolder deep.

.ts4script Files

  • Used for advanced script mods (e.g. UI mods, gameplay systems, etc.)
  • Must be directly inside the Mods folder or one subfolder deep.
  • Only enable these if you trust the mod author!

NOTE - After game updates, script mods are often disabled automatically.

Installing Mods With CurseForge's Mod Manager

CurseForge now supports The Sims 4 in their mod manager, making it easier to install and update mods:

  1. Download and install the CurseForge App.
  2. Select The Sims 4 from the supported games list.
  3. Browse and install mods directly from the manager.
  4. The manager handles installation and folder placement automatically.

This is great for casual modders or those overwhelmed by manual installations!

How To Enable Mods In-Game

Mods won't work until you enable them in-game. To do so, perform the following steps.

  1. Launch The Sims 4.
  2. Navigate to Options > Game Options > Other.
  3. Enable the following settings.
    • ✅ "Enable Custom Content and Mods"
    • ✅ "Script Mods Allowed"
  4. Click the Apply Changes button and restart the game.

After restarting, your mods and CC (custom content) should be active.

Notes

Managing Mods and CC

To stay organized and avoid crashes.

  • Delete outdated or broken mods after game patches.
  • Read each mod description to check for updates or compatibility notes.
  • Use Sims 4 Mod Manager for light-weight mod sorting (optional).
  • If you're using a large mod pack, I recommend testing it on a fresh save first.

Conclusion

By now, you should know how to install mods in The Sims 4! Additionally, you should know the following.

  • Back up your Sims 4 data
  • Download and install mods manually or via CurseForge
  • Enable custom content and script mods in-game
  • Organize and troubleshoot your mod setup

With an awesome community and endless customization, modding The Sims 4 can give you a whole new experience!

See Also

This guide is a work-in-progress and updated over time. If you have suggestions or corrections, let us know!