How to Clean a Home Office

Home Office Organization Tips

As remote work becomes the norm, the home office has become a vital part of our living spaces. Unfortunately, this often means another area prone to clutter and chaos. If you feel weighed down by your workspace, you’re not alone. Let’s do some home office organization and get to cleaning so there is a functional, and inspiring place to work.

Tackle Clutter with Purpose

Sort Your Papers

Not all papers are worth keeping. Start by creating two piles:

1. Keep: Important documents that need filing.
2. Toss: Items to discard or shred (if they contain personal information).

Decluttering feels liberating and sets the foundation for better organization.

Ditch Old Office Supplies

Unused or broken items—like dried-out pens, empty staplers, or outdated gadgets—take up valuable space. Clearing these out instantly creates room for what truly matters.

The Golden Rule: Everything in Its Place

The key to an organized home office is designating a specific spot for every item. This applies to family, guest, and work-related belongings alike.

If You Lack a Dedicated Office Space

For those working at a dining table or other shared spaces, organization is still possible:

• Separate Work Zones: Set boundaries for work items during office hours, keeping personal or family items separate.
• Designated Storage: Use a cabinet, cart, or box for business-related supplies and files.

Pro Tip: Never mix office supplies with family or kids’ items. You’ll save time and frustration by keeping these worlds apart.

Paperwork: Tame the Chaos

Endless paperwork is one of the biggest challenges of working from home. Avoid creating “later” piles by adopting the touch-it-once rule:

• File: Documents you’ll need for future reference.
• Shred/Recycle: Anything unnecessary.
• Action Required: Place urgent items in a clearly marked “to-do” folder.

Keep categories simple but effective for quick sorting.

Easy Storage Solutions

Whether you have a dedicated office or just a corner, being organized maximizes your space. Try these ideas:

• Bulletin Boards: Use wall space for reminders, schedules, and important notes.
• Over-the-Door Shoe Organizers: Perfect for storing small office supplies like pens, scissors, or tape.
• Ottomans with Storage: Discreetly stash files, magazines, or office materials in a dual-purpose piece.
• Thrifted Cabinets: A kitchen cabinet or entertainment center with doors can double as a stylish, hidden office storage solution.

Books: Love Them, but Contain Them

Books can quickly overwhelm your space. Keep them in check with these strategies:

1. Keep Essentials Only: Rotate out books you rarely use.
2. Maximize Shelf Space: Install shelving around doors or windows, or even in overlooked nooks like staircases.
3. Double-Row Shelving: Store books in two rows if shelf depth allows.
4. Donate Excess: Libraries and thrift stores welcome donations.

Labels Are Your Best Friend

You don’t need an expensive label maker—just a system that works. Use file folder labels, sticky notes, or even sharpies to identify:

• Work folders
• File drawers
• Storage bins

Clear labeling saves time and keeps everything at your fingertips.

A Job Well Done

Organizing your home office doesn’t have to be costly or complicated. High-end container stores offer great tools, but budget-friendly solutions often work just as well. Whether you’re overhauling a large space or refining a small corner, these tips can help you create an organized and efficient home office you’ll love working in.

Ready to get started? Let’s tackle that clutter!