If you work from home or have a home office in your house, staying organized is key. Office spaces can quickly become cluttered and messy, especially when storage is limited. But don’t worry—there are plenty of clever storage solutions to make the most of your small space. With just a little creativity and the right tools, you can maximize every inch of your office and make it more functional, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing.
Here are 27 office storage ideas that will help you organize your small space and keep everything in its place. From vertical storage to hidden organizers, these ideas will transform your workspace and make working from home a breeze!
1. Use Vertical Space for Boxes and Folders
Maximizing your vertical space is one of the most effective ways to store items without taking up valuable floor space. Stack folders or boxes on top of your desk or install floating shelves on the walls. This helps clear up your workspace while keeping everything within easy reach. You can also use wall space for hanging hooks or baskets.
2. Install Shelving for Additional Storage
Shelving is an ideal solution for adding extra storage without cluttering your desk. Whether you opt for floating shelves, built-in bookcases, or simple wall-mounted units, shelves provide the perfect space for storing books, office supplies, electronics, or decorative items. Shelves can be placed near your desk or along the walls to help free up more floor space.
3. Label Everything for Easy Access
In a small office, organization is crucial. Labeling drawers, bins, and boxes makes it easy to find what you need when you need it. Label makers are a great tool to help keep everything organized. Use labels for filing systems, office supplies, or even cords and cables to eliminate the frustration of searching for something.
4. Use Baskets or Bins for Small Items
Small office items like pens, pencils, paper clips, and sticky notes can quickly clutter your desk. Use baskets, bins, or drawer organizers to group these items and keep them neat and accessible. Look for stylish, functional baskets that match your office decor to create a cohesive look.
5. Hang Cabinets on the Wall for Larger Items
If you have larger items such as printers, scanners, or extra supplies, consider installing cabinets on the wall. Wall-mounted cabinets help keep the floor clear while providing a designated space for bulkier items. These cabinets are perfect for storing files, folders, or office tools that take up too much space on your desk.
6. Opt for a Desktop Organizer
A desktop organizer is essential for keeping your workspace clutter-free. With compartments for pens, paper, and small office tools, these organizers help streamline your desk. A compact organizer made from wood or metal can add both functionality and style to your office.
7. Invest in a Desk with Built-in Storage
If you’re dealing with limited space, consider investing in a desk with built-in storage. These desks often come with built-in drawers or cabinets for storing office supplies, files, or paperwork. This is a space-saving solution that eliminates the need for additional furniture while providing the storage you need.
8. Stackable Storage Containers for Organization
Stackable containers are a great way to maximize space in a small office. These containers can be used for storing office supplies, papers, or personal items. Choose clear containers so you can easily see what’s inside, and opt for nesting containers that collapse when not in use to save even more space.
9. Store Books and Magazines in Boxes or Crates
If you have a lot of books or magazines taking up valuable desk space, use boxes or crates to organize them. Stackable boxes are perfect for storing these items off the desk and can be easily labeled for easy access. Keep them on the floor, under the desk, or in a closet to free up space.
10. Use a Closet for Office Storage
Turn an unused closet into a functional storage space for your office. Install shelves, hooks, or storage racks to hold office supplies, printer paper, notebooks, and extra electronics. By utilizing an extra closet for your office storage, you can declutter your desk area and keep everything organized.
11. Hang an Over-the-Door Organizer
Over-the-door organizers are perfect for storing smaller items like papers, file folders, printer paper, or even office tools. The best part is, these organizers don’t require installation—just hang them over the door for instant storage. Choose one with multiple pockets or compartments to keep your items separated and easy to access.
12. Mount a Pegboard for Tools and Supplies
Pegboards are versatile and perfect for small office spaces. You can hang tools, office supplies, and even décor items on a pegboard. Customize the layout with hooks, baskets, and shelves to hold everything from notebooks to scissors. Pegboards are easy to install and offer a stylish yet functional storage solution.
13. Store Cords and Cables in Cord Keepers
Cords and cables can be a huge source of clutter in a small office. To keep them organized and tangle-free, invest in cord keepers or cable organizers. These products help prevent cords from becoming tangled and make it easy to store and access them when needed.
14. Use a Trunk or Footlocker as a Storage Bench
A trunk or footlocker can double as both a storage unit and a bench. These pieces are great for storing office supplies, files, and books. If you don’t have a lot of floor space, this storage solution is perfect because it provides extra storage while adding a functional, stylish piece to your office.
15. Create Vertical Filing Systems
For documents, files, and paperwork, a vertical filing system is a space-saving solution. Install vertical filing units on your desk or on a wall. This allows you to store your files in a compact way while keeping them easily accessible. A vertical system minimizes horizontal clutter and keeps your papers organized.
16. Add Storage Hooks for Bags and Accessories
If you’re short on space for your work bags, jackets, or accessories, consider adding storage hooks to your office. Install them on the wall near your desk or on the back of your door. Hooks are perfect for hanging bags, coats, scarves, or even headphones, keeping them off the floor and within reach.
17. Install a Fold-Out Desk or Wall-Mounted Desk
For extremely small spaces, a fold-out or wall-mounted desk is an excellent solution. These desks fold up when not in use, allowing you to use the space for other purposes. When you need a workspace, simply unfold the desk and you have a functional workspace that doesn’t take up much room.
18. Use a Drawer for Desk Accessories
Instead of cluttering your desk with random office tools, keep them neatly organized in a drawer. Store pens, highlighters, paper clips, and other small office supplies in dividers or trays to prevent them from becoming mixed up or hard to find. This keeps your desk clear and your supplies organized.
19. Add a Mobile File Cabinet
If you need to store important documents and files but don’t have space for a large filing cabinet, consider investing in a mobile file cabinet. These cabinets are compact and can easily be moved around. Keep them under your desk or by your side, and you’ll have instant access to your files without taking up too much space.
20. Utilize Floating Desks and Wall-Mounted Storage
If you have limited floor space, consider mounting a desk on the wall. Floating desks allow you to work in a small space while keeping the floor area free. Pair this with wall-mounted shelves and storage options to maximize your office space.
21. Use Storage Ottomans
Storage ottomans are another great way to store office supplies and accessories while doubling as a seating option. Use these ottomans to store extra files, books, or even tech gadgets. Plus, the cushioned top can provide additional seating for visitors.
22. Create an Under-Desk Storage Area
The space beneath your desk can be a valuable storage area. Install a storage unit or rolling cart that fits under your desk for extra supplies or personal items. Use the space to store office tools, files, or electronics that you use less frequently.
23. Go Paperless with Digital Storage
To reduce paper clutter, consider going paperless by scanning and storing documents digitally. Use a cloud service or digital filing system to store your important papers and reduce the need for physical storage. This not only saves space but also makes it easier to find documents when needed.
24. Use Stackable Wire Baskets for Quick Access
Stackable wire baskets are an ideal solution for storing items that you need quick access to. Use them to hold office supplies, papers, or even snacks. Stackable baskets allow you to store items vertically, which saves space while keeping everything organized and visible.
25. Invest in a Wall-Mounted Dry Erase Board
A wall-mounted dry erase board is not only useful for jotting down notes but can also serve as a storage solution. Use it to track important tasks, reminders, and deadlines, keeping your desk space free for other work. Plus, it doubles as a decorative item to brighten up your small office.
26. Store Extra Office Supplies in Closet Organizers
If you have a small closet or cupboard nearby, use closet organizers to store office supplies. Bins, baskets, or hanging organizers can keep your office tools neatly stored and easy to access when needed. This extra storage space helps keep your office clear of unnecessary items.
27. Keep Personal Items in Drawers or Containers
Finally, to keep your small office organized, store personal items in drawers or containers. Keep your work items separated from your personal things by using dedicated containers or filing systems for each. This ensures that your workspace remains focused and tidy.
With these 27 office storage ideas, you can make the most of your small office space while staying organized and efficient. Whether you choose to add vertical storage, invest in smart furniture, or utilize hidden organizers, there’s a solution for every type of workspace. By maximizing your space, you’ll create an office that is both functional and beautiful—no matter how small your space may be.
Grainne Foley is a mother, entrepreneur and blogger. During the 5 years that she traveled full time with her family in an RV, Grainne created methods and tools to help her stay organized living in a small space, and being on the go constantly. This knowledge and expertise has become the basis for The Cleaning Mommy.
Leave a Reply