When to use each type
- Message templates
- Quick replies
Use a template when:
- You are sending the first message to a contact you have never messaged before
- The 24-hour window has expired — more than 24 hours have passed since the contact’s last inbound message
WhatsApp only allows free-form messages within 24 hours of the contact’s last message. Outside that window, you must use an approved template.
Send a message template
When a template is required, BluBash will indicate this in the conversation:- A yellow warning appears in the message input area
- A “Choose template” button is displayed
Find the template
Use the search field or browse the list. Templates appear with a green “Template” badge.
Fill in the variables
If the template contains variables (
{{1}}, {{2}}, etc.):- BluBash will suggest values automatically based on contact data
- You can edit any value manually
- All fields must be filled in before sending
Send a quick reply
Click the lightning bolt icon (⚡)
Find the icon in the message input area, next to the attachment button.
Fill in variables (if any)
The process is the same as for templates — BluBash suggests values and you can edit them.
Keyboard shortcut
Open the template and quick reply selector quickly with:- Windows / Linux:
Ctrl + T - Mac:
⌘ + T
How variable filling works
When a template or quick reply contains variables, you will see an input field for each one. Saved template:{{1}}= Contact name (e.g., “Maria”){{2}}= Your name (e.g., “Ana”){{3}}= Company name (e.g., “BluBash”)
Important notes
- You can only send templates when BluBash prompts you to — you cannot force-send a template in an active conversation
- Quick replies only work in active conversations (within the 24-hour window)
- All variables must be filled in before you can send
- The preview shows exactly how the message will appear to the contact
- Once sent, messages cannot be edited or recalled