Now that tax time is around the corner, de-cluttering your home office is an essential to-do. But once you’ve cleaned house, how do you keep the clutter away for good?
Here are five steps to get your home office in shape, and keep it that way. Keep these healthy home habits going, and enjoy an organized office all year!
1. Put mail in its place
Mail is the number one source of unnecessary garbage in your home office. Stay on top of mail throughout the year by having a regular day and time to open, sort, and recycle the items that come in through your mailbox. Whether it’s ten minutes every day, or 30 minutes once a week, pick a time, and stick to it.
2. Keep a portable file
A handy portable file allows you to quickly store the important mail that you sort, keeping it from piling up on surfaces and making it easy to transfer to your files later on. Make time to regularly transfer paperwork from the portable file to your permanent filing cabinet.
3. Clear your desk
Keep desktop décor at a minimum. Instead, keep a paper-sorting system that is clearly labeled. When everything in your office has a designated place, de-cluttering your desk is easy, and so is staying organized. Treat your desk like your kitchen table: clear it at the end of day, then wipe it clean.
4. Clean electronics the right way
There are all sorts of products on the market that are specifically designed for cleaning electronics or LED screens, but you can also make your own cleaning solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar or isopropyl alcohol and distilled water. Don’t use window cleaners–most are ammonia based, and can stain or permanently damage electronic screens!
Spray your pre-made cleaning solution into the rag, and never directly on the electronics. Use a rag that is non-abrasive, like a microfiber or fine cotton t-shirt, and lightly dry dust the screen in a gentle sweeping motion. For any remaining spots, use electronic wipes. Use compressed air dusters to get remaining dust or food particles out of keyboards and other nooks and crannies.
5. Vacuum like a pro
Now that you’ve knocked and blown dust everywhere, vacuum thoroughly. Use vacuum attachment heads for upholstery, edges, and around cords. Then, wipe baseboards clean with a cloth, and vacuum thoroughly.
Pro dusting tip: Use dryer sheets to dust baseboards, cords, and surfaces. The static cling will pick up dirt, dust and hair, and the softener will leave a light buffer to keep the dust away a little longer.
Use these pro cleaning and organizing tips every day to get your home office clutter-free–and keep it that way!
Top Image Credit: Wentworth, Inc.
Do you need a tidy home office to get work done? Would these tips help you be more productive?
