We all know the struggle: you’re all set to dive into a project, only to find your desk buried under a sea of clutter. A disorganised workspace can feel chaotic and draining, making it hard to stay focused. But a tidy, well-organised workspace does wonders for productivity—it clears your mind, helps you stay focused, and can even make work feel a little more enjoyable. Whether you’re dealing with papers, cables, or too many sticky notes, there are simple, clever ways to tackle the mess. Here are 18 smart tips to transform your workspace into an organised, productive haven.
1. Keep Only Essentials on Your Desk
Start by removing anything that doesn’t directly contribute to your daily tasks. Keep your space focused by sticking to the essentials—like your computer, notepad, and maybe a small plant for a touch of life. This makes it easier to find what you need and reduces distractions.
2. Use a Cable Organizer
Loose cables quickly tangle up and create a messy look. Invest in a cable organizer to keep them neatly in place. You’ll find that having a tidy, tangle-free area not only looks better but also makes it easier to plug in and charge devices without a fuss.
3. Adopt a “One-In-One-Out” Policy
To avoid buildup, apply a simple rule: for every item you add to your desk, remove one. This keeps clutter from sneaking back in and helps maintain a balance. The “one-in-one-out” rule is easy to follow and keeps things under control.
4. Label Your Drawers and Files
Labels on drawers, folders, and files make it much easier to keep things organized and find what you need. This small step saves time digging through papers and helps you stick to a system that works.
5. Set Up a “To-Do” Tray
A designated tray for ongoing work or papers needing attention keeps them from scattering everywhere. It’s perfect for keeping essential documents at hand but out of the way. You’ll always know where to find them without having to hunt through stacks of paper.
6. Use Drawer Dividers
Drawer dividers help keep smaller items like pens, sticky notes, and paper clips in their own space. They prevent clutter and make everything easy to grab when you need it. It’s a quick way to bring order to a chaotic drawer.
7. Try a Standing Desk
A standing desk can improve your posture and keep your workspace feeling less cluttered by eliminating bulky office chairs. Plus, standing desks often come with shelves or storage underneath, giving you more room to organize.
8. Implement a Weekly Tidy-Up Routine
Set aside a few minutes each week to clear out any clutter. Regularly tidying keeps the mess from building up and makes it easier to stay organized long-term. It’s a quick habit that pays off by keeping your space neat.
9. Use a Desktop File Holder
Instead of piling papers flat on your desk, use a file holder to keep them upright and organised. This keeps papers accessible but out of the way, and it stops them from taking over your desk. Plus, it’s easy to find what you need.
10. Go Paperless Where Possible
If you’re able to, consider digitalizing paperwork to cut down on clutter. Store documents online and use apps for notes and reminders. Going paperless doesn’t just reduce clutter—it also makes it easier to share and access files.
11. Keep a Small Trash Bin Nearby
Having a bin within reach makes it easy to toss out waste and keep your desk clutter-free. You won’t have to get up and break focus to dispose of something, and it stops trash from piling up on your desk.
12. Store Items Vertically
Make use of vertical space with wall-mounted shelves or organisers. It clears desk space without making you sacrifice storage, giving you a clean desk without losing access to essential items. It’s perfect for small workspaces, too.
13. Use a Whiteboard or Corkboard
A whiteboard or corkboard can keep important notes, to-dos, and reminders in sight without adding to desk clutter. Mount it on the wall for easy access, and use it to jot down quick notes or pin documents that you need visible.
14. Keep a Cleaning Kit in Your Desk Drawer
A small cleaning kit with wipes, a duster, and other essentials keeps your workspace fresh. A quick wipe-down every now and then can make a huge difference in keeping your desk tidy and pleasant to work at.
15. Limit Personal Decorations
While personal touches are nice, too many can crowd your workspace. Pick just a few meaningful items to keep things from getting overwhelming. This lets you personalize without letting decorations take over.
16. Use Trays for Office Supplies
Trays for supplies like paper clips, pens, and sticky notes make them easy to access without cluttering up the desk. Grouping items in trays keeps everything in order and stops supplies from spreading out too much.
17. Set Up a Charging Station
A designated charging area keeps devices from piling up on your workspace. A simple charging station keeps your phone, tablet, and other gadgets organised, so you’re not constantly untangling wires or searching for a free plug.
18. Use Task Lighting
Good lighting can make a workspace feel cleaner and more inviting. A focused desk lamp keeps shadows off your work area and reduces eye strain, making it easier to stay productive in a well-lit, clear space.
Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
