Clutter doesn’t just look messy—it affects focus, productivity, and even mood. Fortunately, you don’t need a full office makeover to bring order to your workspace. With a few quick fixes and storage solutions, you can reclaim your desk, drawers, and shelves without wasting a weekend. These clutter-clearing tips work for home offices, classrooms, and small business spaces alike.
Start with a Supply Audit
Before organizing, figure out what you actually have. Take everything out of your drawers, bins, and cabinets, and group similar items together. Chances are you’ll find duplicate scissors, dried-out markers, or expired sticky notes you forgot you owned. Toss or donate anything that’s no longer usable or relevant to your work.
Use Drawer Dividers and Stackable Trays
Most office clutter lives in drawers. Instead of letting pens, paper clips, and tape rolls float freely, use drawer organizers like the ones available from The Container Store or IKEA to separate items by category. Stackable trays let you maximize vertical space inside shallow drawers and reduce rummaging.
Switch to Modular Desktop Organizers
Choose storage tools that fit your space and workflow. Poppin and Muji both offer modular desktop setups that include pen cups, file sorters, and supply drawers that interlock or stack. Look for options with clean lines and minimal color to avoid visual clutter.
Label Everything
Even in small spaces, labels make a difference. Whether you’re using washi tape and markers or a label maker like the Brother P-touch, clearly marked containers help everyone (especially in shared spaces) know what goes where.
Contain Cables and Tech Accessories
Loose chargers and cords can dominate a clean workspace in seconds. Use cable clips, sleeves, or boxes from brands like Anker or Bluelounge to group and conceal cords neatly. Keep backup batteries, USB drives, and adapters in labeled pouches or drawer bins.
Designate a Refill Station
Keep extra supplies like pens, printer paper, or staples in one central location—ideally out of your daily work zone. Use bins or magazine holders to keep refills upright and easy to access. This prevents overflow at your desk and helps track when you’re running low.
Rotate or Remove Decor
Personal touches are great, but too many knickknacks can turn into distractions. Keep one or two meaningful items visible and rotate seasonal décor or photos periodically. If something doesn’t serve a purpose or bring joy, it might be time to let it go.
The Bottom Line
Clutter control isn’t about getting rid of everything—it’s about creating a space that works for you. With smart containers, designated zones, and a little ongoing upkeep, you can stay organized without constant effort and get back to focusing on the work that matters.
