A cluttered desk is the last thing you need when you’re trying to conquer the world (or at least your inbox). It doesn’t matter if you’re carving out a corner in your home or claiming your spot in an office—a tidy workspace is your ticket to a happier, more productive day. The best desk organizers, such as the versatile Marbrasse Multi-Functional Desk Organizer, keep essential items neat and categorized so they’re easy to access when you need them.
The best desk organizers keep all your essential work-related items categorized so they’re never … [+] hard to find.
Illustration: Forbes / Image: Retailers
Tova Weinstock, a New York City-based organizer who knows a thing or two about controlling chaos, swears by a clutter-free workspace. “Less is more, so think about the things that really belong on your desk,” she says. To reduce visual clutter, Weinstock recommends organizing your items according to how often you reach for them. If you never use sticky notes during the workday, for example, you probably don’t need a tall stack of them right next to your laptop. On the other hand, if you’re someone who likes to jot down notes, a pen (and some type of paper) should be within easy reach on your desk. “When you can easily access what you need, you’re overall more efficient,” she says. Whether you need a chic paper tray or a full set of drawer organizers, here are the best desk organizers to streamline your space and elevate your home office.
This desk organizer is a do-it-all office accessory with three compartments: a top tray, a notebook holder and two convenient drawers. While it’s compact, it can neatly store a surprising amount of essentials, from pens and paper clips to notebooks and tablets. Made from durable plastic, this organizer can stand up to daily use without sacrificing aesthetics, so you can have a clean and stylish workspace. While it’s not the largest option out there, its streamlined design keeps everything in order without hogging valuable workspace.
A Sleek And Practical Solution
The Container Store
Bigso Boden Desktop Organizer
This desktop organizer is recommended by Katrina Teeple, a professional organizer and CEO of Operation Organization, for its ability to beautify your workspace. “I love this organizer because it’s less officey and more refined looking,” she says. The versatile five-piece set effortlessly corrals everything from pens and pencils to sticky notes and paper clips. Customizing or pairing it with a matching paper tray enhances its functionality, allowing for a perfectly tailored desktop experience.
A Pick That Keeps Essential Items Visible
Amazon
My Space Organizers Clear Acrylic Desk Organizer
Keep everything accessible with this desk organizer that’s constructed from sturdy clear acrylic. It has nine different compartments (including a dedicated phone slot) and can handle everything from full-size folders to paper clips. Measuring 10 x 7.3 x 5 inches, this organizer is roomy enough for all your essentials but won’t dominate your desk space. Customers love its sturdy build and sleek look, and it comes in a handful of colors if acrylic doesn’t suit the look of your desk.
A Chic Option Made With Sustainable Wood
Amazon
Missionmax Bamboo Wood Desk Organizer
Whether you’re streamlining your workspace or adding a touch of style, this organizer fits all your desktop essentials with room to spare. Made from sustainable wood, it offers 10 thoughtful compartments that are perfect for all your odds and ends, including a generous space for files and notebooks. Customers say it’s well-built and has the perfect number of cubbies for easy organization.
The Woven Exterior Adds Visual Interest
Target
Threshold Caddy Set Organizer
This five-piece caddy set keeps everything you need within reach and has a reasonable price that’s hard to beat. This set (which I personally use and love) includes four versatile caddies and a larger tray, all with a natural, woven exterior. The beauty of this desk organizer lies in its flexibility; you can arrange the caddies to fit your needs or use the tray to move them all at once. It’s simple, stylish and a great value for the price.
Best Paper Trays
A Modern Pick With A Spacious Drawer For Extra Storage
Target
Threshold Acrylic Large Paper Tray
This acrylic paper tray is a chic and practical way to organize papers and files that might be cluttering your space. Its see-through design looks stylish and makes it easy to spot what you need, and it comes with a spacious drawer for additional storage. Users appreciate the clean design and say it elevates their workspace while keeping everything tidy, especially when paired with other acrylic organization products.
A Simple Design For Papers, Files And More
Amazon
Samstar Letter Tray Paper Organizer
This mesh desk file organizer is a solid choice for those needing serious storage without the fuss. It features a five-tier shelf design, offering plenty of space to organize everything from letters and bills to books and magazines. It may not have a flashy design, but it’s durable, easy to assemble and provides plenty of storage space.
A Solid Wood Tray With A Durable Construction
Amazon
Kirigen Wood Letter-Size Tray
This tray is a straightforward choice for those who want a simple, effective way to organize their papers or mail. The deep capacity is ideal for storing thicker files or magazines, and the open-front design makes it easy to grab what you need. Plus, the solid wood construction is durable and moisture-resistant so it can withstand daily use.
A Vertical, Space-Saving Option
Amazon
Ktrio Acrylic File Holder
Consider this expert-approved acrylic file holder if you need a vertical, space-saving option. The clear design makes it easy to browse important files or paperwork quickly, and the thick acrylic is great for storing electronics, calculators and binders. “I love this file sorter for holding various folders with different paperwork. Just make sure everything is clearly labeled,” says Weinstock. Each section is just over an inch-and-a-hal
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