How to maximise desk space and organise your workspace effectively
Your desk is where all the action happens, whether you're brainstorming your next big idea, jumping between meetings, or tackling your to-do list. But today's tech-driven workspaces can get messy with devices, cables, and everything in between. A cluttered desk can begin to feel distracting. But with a little organisation and the right tools, you can turn your desk into a space that's not only tidy but helps keep you focused and productive.
In this guide, we'll explore practical ways to optimise your workspace, from choosing the right accessories to maintaining an ergonomic and clutter-free environment.
Why a Tidy Desk is Important
Your desk is your command centre. A cluttered desk is a visual distraction that can interfere with focus and productivity. Whether you’re working at home or in the office an organised, tidy workspace helps you stay calm and focused. It’ll be much easier to work through your task list and problem solve.
A clutter free desk is easier to keep clean too. Desk hygiene is more important than ever in the wake of Covid. There are lots of places on desks that can harbour germs, even more so if your desk is untidy.
Invest in the right equipment
A well-organised desk often relies on the right tools. Here are some must-have accessories that can help you stay tidy:
A quality monitor arm
You can free up valuable desk space by elevating your monitor(s) with an adjustable monitor arm. This also improves ergonomics by aligning the screen at eye level. Cables from your devices are routed through the monitor arm, keeping them organised and tidy.
If you have a multi-screen system a post mounted monitor arm will support all your monitors and keep them clear of the desk.
A dynamic monitor arm has integrated cables with optional USB connectivity. This type of monitor arm is ideal for both single and dual screen use. You can also mount a laptop or tablet on this type of arm, saving space on your desk.
Efficient cable management is essential to maintain a tidy workspace. Look for monitor arms with cable clips, channels, or integrated systems to route and hide cables effectively. Cables should be routed tidily from monitor to base.
If you're working with a laptop, you can save space and reduce neck strain by elevating your screen with a laptop stand.
2. Docking Stations
Streamline your tech setup with a docking station, which consolidates cables and peripherals into one compact unit. Rather than having multiple USB, monitor and power cables across your desk, you can plug your laptop into the office docking station to convert it into a desktop. Laptop docking stations minimise desk clutter by eliminating stray cables.
What are the different kinds of docking station?
Standalone docking station - This is the most widely available type of universal laptop docking station. It is a separate device that you can place anywhere on your desk.
Integrated docking station - This integrates into the base of your monitor arm, taking up less space on your desk. The monitor arm routes the cables to the rear of the dock, where the video cables are connected, with the power cables dropping behind the desk to outlets. An integrated docking station helps increase usable workspace and keeps your desktop tidier.
Portable docking stations - These are designed to be more lightweight and compact, so you can easily carry them around with your laptop.
3. Under Desk Cable Tray
Clutter isn't limited to the desktop; it can also get pretty messy beneath your desk if you're not careful. A tangle of cables beneath your desk is not a good look and can even potentially be dangerous. A cable organiser is a great way to prevent this. This is a metal tray mounted on the underside of your desk. It helps keep cables tidy and accessible but out of sight. Some desks have bespoke sliding desktops, so you can easily access the tray. Cable management chains also create tidy cable routes from under desk PCs.
Prioritise Ergonomics
An organised desk is not just about aesthetics; it should also support your comfort and health. Poor ergonomics can cause fatigue, discomfort, and even long-term health issues. Follow these tips to create an ergonomic workspace:
Monitor Placement - Position your monitor so the top of the screen is at eye level and about an arm's length away.
Keyboard and Mouse - Keep your keyboard and mouse at a comfortable height to reduce strain on your wrists.
Chair Adjustment - Use an adjustable chair that supports your lower back and allows your feet to rest flat on the floor.
Lighting - Ensure your desk is well-lit to reduce eye strain, using a combination of natural light and task lighting.
An organised and ergonomic workspace sets you up for long-term productivity and wellbeing.
Maintain your workspace daily
Once you've organised your desk, the key to keeping it tidy is daily maintenance. Incorporate these habits into your routine:
Clear Your Desk at the End of the Day: Spend 5 minutes each evening putting away items and resetting your workspace.
Weekly Deep Clean: WFH desks, in particular, can easily become a little messy. Dedicate time each week to dusting, wiping down surfaces, and decluttering.
How a tidy desk can improve your wellbeing and work productivity
A feeling of control over your environment improves your mood and helps you think more clearly.
Clutter can be a visual distraction. Getting rid of it can improve your focus.
An organised desk means you won't waste time looking for misplaced items.
When your desk is tidy, there's more room to set up your workspace ergonomically. Monitor arms and laptop stands can be positioned correctly, improving posture, reducing strain on your neck and back, and supporting long-term physical health.
It improves hygiene. Regularly tidying and cleaning your desk reduces the buildup of dust, germs, and allergens, creating a healthier workspace.
Your workspace looks more professional, giving a better impression to colleagues and visitors.
Creating more desk space allows you to add small personal touches—like a plant or photo—without feeling cluttered.
Looking to declutter your desk? Zgo stock a range of solutions to help organise your workspace. Take a look at our products here.