A tidy office is essential for productivity, focus, and peace of mind. This week, we’re tackling the heart of your workspace: organizing desk drawers, purging old files, dusting shelves, and giving your tech a much-needed clean. Here’s your expert guide to transforming your office into an efficient, clutter-free zone.
Week 15: Office – Declutter & Organize Supplies
- Organize your desk drawers.
- Purge old files and paperwork.
- Dust shelves, bookcases, and cabinets.
- Clean your computer screen, mouse, and keyboard.
Organize Your Desk Drawers
Empty Everything Out: Remove all items from your desk drawers to assess what you actually have. This “blank slate” approach helps you make intentional decisions about what to keep, toss, or relocate.
Sort and Categorize: Group items into categories like office supplies, paperwork, electronics, and personal items. Discard or donate anything you don’t use or need.
Test and Toss: Gather all your pens and office supplies. Test pens and markers, keeping only those that work. Toss or recycle the rest.
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Drawer Dividers: Invest in or use DIY drawer dividers to keep supplies separated and easy to find. Label compartments for even greater efficiency.
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Return Only Essentials: Place only the items you use daily back in the top drawers. Store less-used items in lower drawers or on shelves to keep your workspace clear.
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Purge Old Files and Paperwork
Start Small: Tackle one drawer or file at a time to avoid overwhelm. Focus on bills, receipts, or paperwork you no longer need8.
Shred and Recycle: Shred documents with sensitive information and recycle the rest. Digitize important papers to minimize physical clutter.
This is the shredder I bought!
Create a Filing System: Use labeled folders or file boxes for documents you need to keep. Archive long-term files in a separate, clearly marked area.
Dust Shelves, Bookcases, and Cabinets
Clear Surfaces First: Remove books, binders, and decor before dusting.
Dust Thoroughly: Use a microfiber cloth or duster for shelves and cabinets. Don’t forget the tops and hidden corners.
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Method All-Purpose Cleaner Spray, French Lavender, Plant-Based and Biodegradable Formula Perfect for Most Counters, Tiles and More, 28 Fl Oz, (Pack of 4). Amazon creator ad link https://amzn.to/4brsKuL
Reorganize as You Return Items: Only return items that belong and are necessary. Group similar items together for easy access.
Clean Your Computer Screen, Mouse, and Keyboard
Unplug Devices: Safety first = unplug before cleaning.
Screen: Use a screen-safe cleaner and microfiber cloth to gently wipe your monitor.
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Keyboard and Mouse: Use compressed air to remove debris, then wipe with a disinfectant wipe or cloth. Pay special attention to high-touch areas.
Don’t Forget Accessories: Clean your mousepad, phone, and any other frequently used tech.
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Expert Tips for Maintaining a Clutter-Free Office
Daily Reset: Spend a few minutes at the end of each workday putting items back in their place and wiping down your desk.
Weekly Review: Set a recurring reminder to reassess your workspace and tackle any new clutter before it builds up.
Smart Storage: Use trays, vertical sorters, and labeled bins to keep supplies accessible but tidy.
Digitize When Possible: Scan and store important documents digitally to reduce paper piles.
Recommended Products
For the tools and organizers that make decluttering easier, check out my Amazon affiliate links throughout the post. Your support helps me continue to bring you honest reviews and expert recommendations-thank you!
Sneak Peek: Week 16 – Garage – Organize Seasonal Items
Next week, we’ll shift gears and tackle the garage:
- Store away winter or summer gear based on the season.
- Organize bikes, sports equipment, or camping gear.
- Sweep the garage floor and organize bins.
- Label storage containers for easier access.
If you missed any of the earlier challenges, be sure to check out the Challenge 2025 kick-off post, which lists all weekly challenges and links as they become available.
For your convenience, download free cleaning, organizing, and decluttering checklists to keep your progress on track:
BLOG POST with free checklists for each room
Master checklist for all 52 weeks:
Download the list here (click image):
Thank you for supporting this 52-week challenge by using my affiliate links. Your support helps me continue to bring you honest reviews and expert recommendations. Please share these posts with your friends if you find them helpful!
Have a wonderful day and happy cleaning!
