Do you ever sit down at your desk and feel like the clutter around you is holding you back from focusing?
We’ve spoken with many Australians about their home office setups, and we’ve seen how clutter and poor storage make it harder to stay productive. The good news is that small changes can make a huge difference. With the right storage tools, habits, and layout, you can create a workspace that feels calmer and helps you get more done. Here are ten ideas that really work.
Clear the desk first
We’ve found that productivity starts with a clean surface. Even something as simple as having a small tray or basket as a landing zone for keys, headphones, or your phone keeps clutter contained and stops distractions spreading across the desk.
Add smart office storage
A desk piled with loose items usually means there aren’t enough places to store things. Our office storage range includes drawer units and compartment organisers that fit neatly under or beside a desk. They keep supplies out of sight but close at hand, making the space feel lighter.
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Make use of vertical space
Many home offices waste valuable vertical storage. Adding storage cabinets and shelf units or wall-mounted shelves is an easy way to create more room. We’ve noticed that this is especially helpful in smaller apartments, where every bit of space counts.
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Sort drawers with dividers
We’ve seen drawers become a jumble of pens, cords, and stationery without any system in place. Using dividers or trays creates clear sections so each item has its place. This not only saves time searching but also makes it easier to keep the drawer neat after daily use.
Tame the cable mess
Cables are one of the most common complaints we hear. Some of the smartest tricks we’ve come across include:
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Using binder clips on the desk edge to hold charging cords in place
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Attaching adhesive hooks under the desk to route cables neatly
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Keeping a small box or pouch for spare chargers and adapters
These simple steps stop cords from tangling across the workspace and make everything easier to plug in when needed.
Set up a task tray
Piles of paperwork are distracting. Having a single task tray for active projects contains the mess while keeping it accessible. Once a project is complete, the tray can be cleared for the next one, so the desk never gets overloaded.
Use baskets and boxes for extras
Home offices feel more inviting when storage looks good too. We often recommend home storage baskets for supplies you don’t want sitting out. They work for books, cables, or even personal items, keeping everything contained without sacrificing style.
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Keep essentials within reach
Items you use every day, like pens, sticky notes, or phone chargers, should have a dedicated spot. Whether it’s a small organiser on the desk or a divided drawer, we’ve seen how much smoother workdays run when these items are easy to grab.
Improve light and add greenery
We’ve noticed how much lighting and atmosphere impact productivity. Positioning your desk near a window makes a difference, and even a small plant can freshen the room. Better light means less strain on your eyes, and greenery helps with focus. Here’s an article with inspiration for creating brighter, more productive home offices.
Build better habits
Organisation doesn’t stop at storage—it’s also about routines. Taking ten minutes at the end of the day to reset your desk means you’ll start fresh each morning. We’ve shared more in an article on spring cleaning your habits, showing how small, regular actions can keep any space in order.
Let us help you
Every home office is different, and we know from experience that the right solution depends on how you work. Whether you need office storage for a compact desk or larger shelf units for a shared office, we can help. Our home organisational services give you personalised support, and you can always contact us for advice tailored to your home.
