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The New Year can be a time for resolutions, fresh starts, and the promise of better habits. Often, we concentrate on going to the gym, eating healthier, or finally reading those dusty books on the shelf. However, there’s one resolution that can benefit everyone, regardless of where or how you work: cleaning your desk. Many people may not realize that the second Monday of January is National Clean Your Desk Day. So, there’s no better way to kick off the New Year than by rolling up your sleeves and decluttering your workspace.

Why should you care about cleaning your desk? Turns out, it’s not just about aesthetics. Let’s explore why desk cleanliness matters, how it can transform your work life, and why W.B. Mason is your ally in the battle against clutter.

Cleaning Your Desk Matters

A messy desk might not seem like a big deal, but research suggests otherwise. Science tells us that a clean workspace isn’t just nice to look at—it can boost productivity, improve mental health, and even protect your physical health. Here are some ways refreshing your desk can be a good habit to fall into this year:

Eliminate Germs:

Here’s a gross fact to kick off your cleaning motivation: the average desk harbors 400 times more bacteria than a toilet seat, according to a University of Arizona study. If you’re munching on snacks while typing away, you might be sharing your workspace with some unwanted germs. Keyboards, phones, and desk surfaces are the prime breeding grounds for bacteria, with studies showing that up to 10 million bacteria can inhabit a single desk. Yikes! Germs like E. coli, staphylococcus, and viruses that cause the common cold, and the flu can linger for days, putting your health at risk before you even know it. Regularly disinfecting your desk isn’t just about keeping things tidy—it’s a proactive way to protect yourself and your coworkers from unnecessary sick days. Keep some disinfecting wipes within arm’s reach and make it a habit to clean frequently touched surfaces.

Reduce Stress:

Let’s face it: staring at a mountain of papers, random coffee mugs, and tangled cords can be stressful. A study from the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) found that 54% of Americans feel overwhelmed by clutter in their workspaces. Cleaning your desk can give you a sense of control and reduce stress, helping you start the day on a positive note.

Productivity Boost:

Studies also show that a clutter-free desk can help you to focus better. When your workspace is tidy, your brain is less likely to be overwhelmed by distractions. According to a study by Princeton University, visual clutter competes for your attention, making it harder to concentrate on the task at hand. A clean desk can create mental clarity, allowing you to work more efficiently and with fewer interruptions.

Cleaning Tips for Refreshing Your Desk

Whether you’re working from the comfort of your home, balancing hybrid schedules, or braving the office full-time, desk cleaning can be tailored to your needs. Here’s how to tackle the mess:

For Remote Workers

Your desk might double as a dining table or a kid’s art station. Start by clearing everything off and deciding what belongs in your workspace and what does not. Keeping cleaning wipes handy to sanitize surfaces and investing in cable organizers can help tame the tech chaos.

For Hybrid Workers

Hybrid workers often juggle multiple workspaces. Using portable organizers to keep essentials like pens, chargers, and sticky notes within reach can help keep you organized. Before leaving your office or home desk for the day, do a quick sweep—trash the wrappers, tidy the papers, and give it a wipe-down.

For In-Office Workers

In-office workers have the advantage of desk neighbors who might silently (or not-so-silently) judge their mess resulting in a forced clean-up. To avoid this uncomfortable situation, make it a habit to clean your desk at the end of each workday. Use disinfecting wipes for shared items like keyboards and phones.

Why Choose W.B. Mason?

Cleaning and organizing your desk can be much easier when you have the right tools and supplies. There’s no one better to solve cluttered desks than W.B. Mason, your one-stop shop for office and cleaning supplies. From disinfecting wipes and hand sanitizers to desk organizers and cable management, W.B. Mason has everything you need to turn your desk from chaos to clean.

Comprehensive Cleaning Supplies

Remember that disturbing fact about germs? Well, W.B. Mason offers a wide array of cleaning essentials. Here are some cleaning products that W.B. Mason offers:

Organizers for Every Desk Style

From minimalist setups to tech-heavy workstations, W.B. Mason’s organizational tools are designed to suit your needs. Drawer trays, pen cups, and even cable organizers help you keep everything in its place. Below are a few items that W.B. Mason offers:

Fun Ways to Celebrate National Clean Your Desk Day

Cleaning doesn’t have to feel like a chore, so celebrate National Clean Your Desk Day by:

  • Hosting a Cleaning Contest: Challenge your coworkers to see who can create the most impressive desk transformation.
  • Playing a Cleaning Playlist: Turn on some upbeat tunes to keep the energy high while you declutter.
  • Host a Cleaning Race: Set a timer and race your coworkers to tackle cleaning in short bursts and see who can clean the fastest.
  • Sharing Before-and-After Photos: Post your desk glow-up on social media and inspire others to join the clean-desk movement!

A Clean Desk, A Clear Mind

Cleaning your desk is more than just an act of organization—it’s a statement. It’s about starting the New Year with intention, taking control of your environment, and setting yourself up for success. Whether you’re working from home, commuting to the office, or somewhere in between, a clean workspace can make all the difference. So, grab those disinfecting wipes, dust off your favorite mug, and let’s make 2025 the year of the tidy desk.

And remember, W.B. Mason is here to help you every step of the way. With a wide selection of cleaning and organizational products, W.B. Mason is a one-stop-shop for all your desk needs. Happy National Clean Your Desk Day!

References

BBC News. The stuff paradox: Dealing with clutter in the US. (https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-31051632) Accessed December 23, 2024.

National Day Calendar. National Clean off Your Desk Day. (https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day/national-clean-off-your-desk-day-second-monday-in-january) Accessed December 23, 2024.

Princton Alumni Weekly. Psychology: Your Attention, Please. (https://paw.princeton.edu/article/psychology-your-attention-please) Accessed December 23, 2024.

The University of Arizona. Germs Spread Fast at Work, Study Finds. (https://publichealth.arizona.edu/news/2013/germs-spread-fast-work,-study-finds) Accessed December 23, 2024.