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Decluttering Your Desk: How to Create a Clutter-Free Workspace That Boosts Productivity

I get it. You're tired of sitting down eager to tackle your to-do list and winding up distracted by the mess that's in front of you. Whether it's a million sticky notes, cord clutter, or a coffee mug from 3 days ago, trust me, you're not alone in this struggle.

Photograph of a decluttered desk using professional organizing systems.

Here's the good news, organizing your desk doesn't have to be overwhelming. With a few simple strategies and the right tools, you can create a workspace that feels calm, efficient and - dare I say it - actually enjoyable to work at.

Want to skip the deets? Click the link below to jump to the most important parts of the blog.



Step 1: Declutter Your Desk (Yes, Everything!)

Before you organize, you need to clear the clutter. Start by removing everything from your desk. Yes, everything—even the pens, the planner, and that random stack of mail you’ve been ignoring.


Reflect On These Questions

  • Do I use this item every day?

  • Does it serve a clear purpose in my workflow?

  • Is it necessary, or is it just taking up space?


Toss or relocate anything that doesn’t pass the test. Be ruthless! If you haven’t touched it in months, you probably don’t need it on your desk.


Step 2: Create Sections for Efficiency

The Three Main Desk Sections

  1. Daily Essentials: Items you use all the time (like your laptop, favorite pen, and planner) should be within arm’s reach. A desk organizer like this one keeps everything neat without taking up much space.

  2. Reference & Storage: Things you use often but don’t need in front of you 24/7 (like notebooks, chargers, and extra pens) should be in a drawer organizer like this one for easy access.

  3. Deep Storage: Items you rarely use (like extra cables, seasonal files, or spare office supplies) should be tucked away in a storage box like this one to keep your space clear.


Photograph of a desk organizer that has compartments for organizing journals, pens and essential items.

Step 3: Organize the Cable Chaos

Nothing makes a desk look messier than a jungle of tangled cords. And let’s be honest—trying to figure out which charger belongs to what is just plain frustrating.


Fix It Fast


Step 4: Maximize Vertical Space

If your desk feels cramped, it’s time to think up instead of out. Adding vertical storage helps you keep things off your workspace while still keeping them within reach.


Space-Saving Solutions:


Step 5: Keep Your Setup Minimal (But Functional!)

Now that your desk is organized, the key is to keep it that way. A good rule of thumb? If something doesn’t serve a clear purpose, it doesn’t belong on your desk.


Simple Habits to Maintain an Organized Desk:

  • At the end of each workday, take 60 seconds to reset your desk—put pens back, clear papers, and wipe down the surface.

  • Stick to a one-in, one-out rule—if you bring in a new item, something else should go.

  • Use a desk organizer like this one to keep only the essentials at arm’s reach.


A Clear Desk = A Clear Mind

Your desk should be a space that helps you feel focused and in control—not overwhelmed by clutter. With a little effort and the right organizing tools, you can create a workspace that actually works for you.


If you’re ready to get your desk in order, check out my Amazon storefront here for my favorite desk organization essentials!


And if you need help organizing your entire home or workspace, let’s chat—because an organized space leads to an organized life.


This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my links.

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