Get Organized: Using Storage Containers in Your Home Office

My favorite way to create more office space is by using the walls. You can create a wall grid by using wire mesh or a pegboard. Simply attach the mesh or pegboard to a wall close to your desk to hang and store heavily used supplies and files. Also available are wire mesh file holders. These are easily attached to the wall and the perfect size for storing files.

There are a variety of options available for storing files. If you are working in a small space, it might make more sense to purchase a rolling storage cabinet or cardboard file boxes instead of a stationary filing cabinet. By using the portable alternatives, you can easily position your files close to you when you need them, or move them to their designated storage area when you don’t. If you decide to use cardboard file boxes, be sure to label each box with the contents it contains.

In/Out baskets are must-haves for anybody who has a home office. Be sure to purchase stackable baskets to maximize storage space. Designate one basket each for outgoing and incoming mail. You can use additional baskets to store documents, memos, and reports that you are currently working on.

Maximize the space under your phone by using a phone stand. There are many styles to choose from based on your personal needs. Some only have space for a pen and memo pad. Others can be used to store your phone book, post-it pads, pens, etc. If you use a headset, locate a phone stand that has a hook for storing your headset when not in use.

Again, there are a variety of desk drawer organizers to meet personal needs. I personally use two types. The first fits nicely in my top side-drawer and contains slots to hold my most used documents. The second fits in my middle-drawer and holds pens, pencils, paper clips, runner bands, etc.

There are so many storage units available at office supply stores. I recommend writing down your personal storage needs to help determine which units might work well for your home office space. Use your list as you visit office supply stores or shop around online. Remember to think outside of the box when it comes to maximizing your home office space.