How To Organize Stationery: Tips to Declutter your Office Supplies

Organizing your stationery can be a daunting task, especially if you have a lot of supplies. However, having well-organized stationery can save you time and make it easier to find the items you need.

Understanding the Importance of Stationery Organization

When it comes to productivity and efficiency, organization is key. This is especially true when it comes to your stationery. Keeping your stationery organized can save you time, reduce stress, and boost your overall efficiency.

By organizing your stationery, you can easily find what you need when you need it. This can help you avoid wasting time searching for a pen or a notepad. Additionally, when your stationery is organized, you can easily see what you have and what you need to restock.

GPT A serene home office setup with a white desk and chair. On the desk, there's a laptop, a gray desk lamp, a small potted plant, a stack of books with a clipboard on top, and a holder with pens. The minimalistic design, combined with the soft tones of the room, creates a calm and organized workspace. — Image of an organized desk – example of how to organize stationery

Organizing your stationery can also help you stay focused. When your desk is cluttered with pens, pencils, and other stationery items, it can be distracting. By keeping your stationery organized and out of sight, you can stay focused on the task at hand.

Overall, organizing your stationery is a simple yet effective way to improve your productivity and efficiency. By taking the time your stationery, you can save time, reduce stress, and stay focused on your work.

How to Organize Stationery

Organizing your stationery can seem like a daunting task, but with a little planning and effort, it can be a fun and rewarding project. Here are a few steps to help you get started:

Set Aside Time For Your Project

Before you start your project, set aside some time to work on it. Depending on how much stationery you have, it could take a few hours or a few days. Make sure you choose a time when you won't be interrupted and can focus on the task.

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Take Inventory of Your Stationery

The first step in organizing your stationery is to take an inventory of all your supplies. This will help you determine what you have, what you need, and what you can get rid of. Once you have taken inventory, you can decide on the best system for you.

You can organize your supplies by type, colour, size, or frequency of use. The key is to find a system that makes sense to you and is easy to maintain.

Gather your Storage Supplies

To organize your stationery, you'll need some supplies. Here are a few things you might want to have on hand:

Storage containers: You'll need somewhere to store your stationery. Consider using boxes, bins, or drawers to keep everything organized.
Labels: Labels can help you keep track of what's in each container. Consider using a label maker or just write on the containers with a marker.
Trash bags: As you go through your stationery, you'll likely find some things you no longer need. Have some trash bags handy to dispose of these items.
Cleaning supplies: Depending on how dirty your stationery is, you may need some cleaning supplies to get everything looking its best.

An illustration of a woman in a sunlit room, leaning over a desk while opening or organizing a plastic bag. The warm lighting suggests a peaceful atmosphere, likely in a home office setting, with hints of greenery from indoor plants adding to the tranquil scene. — image of a woman cleaning, holding a garbage bag

Declutter your stationery

Before you start organizing your stationery, take some time to declutter it. Go through each item and decide whether you want to keep it, donate it, or toss it. Be honest with yourself and get rid of anything you haven't used in a while or that no longer serves a purpose.

Organize your stationery

Once you've decluttered your stationery, it's time to start organizing it. Consider grouping items together, such as pens with pens and paper with paper. Use your storage containers and labels to keep everything in its place.

Purge regularly

To keep your stationery organized, it's important to purge regularly. Set aside some time every few months to go through your stationery and get rid of anything you no longer need.

By following these steps, you can start your stationery organization project with confidence and end up with a neat and tidy workspace.

Categorizing Your Stationery

When it comes to organizing your stationery, categorizing your items is an essential step. By grouping your stationery collection into categories, you can easily find what you need and avoid unnecessary searching. Here are some tips on how to categorize your stationery:

An assortment of office supplies arranged on an orange surface, including markers, paper clips, binder clips, sticky notes, a sharpener, a stapler, a tape dispenser, scissors, a ruler, and more. This image portrays a vibrant and well-equipped work environment. — image of office supplies on an orange table

Group Your Stationery by Type

Start by grouping your stationery by type. For example, you can group your pens, pencils, highlighters, and permanent markers together. You can also group your home office supplies, such as binder clips, rubber bands, and paper clips, together. This will make it easier to find what you need when you need it.

Categorize Your Stationery by Colour

If you have a lot of stationery items, you can also categorize them by colour. This can be especially helpful for items like washi tape, stickers, and sticky notes. By grouping these items by colour, you can quickly find the colour you need without having to sift through all of your supplies.

close-up image of different coloured crayons

Use a Label Maker

To make it even easier to find what you need, consider using a label maker to label your stationery categories. This will ensure that everything has a designated spot and that you can easily identify where each item belongs.

Keep Your Stationery Categories Simple

When categorizing your stationery, try to keep your categories simple. Don't create too many categories, or you may end up with a cluttered and confusing system. Stick to broad categories like “writing tools,” “office supplies,” and “decorative items.”

By categorizing your stationery, you can create an organized and efficient system that will make it easier to find what you need when you need it.

Choosing the Right Storage Solutions

When it comes to organizing stationery, choosing the right storage space solutions can make all the difference. Here are some tips to help you make the best choices for your needs:

An illustration of a highly organized shelving unit filled with various office supplies and storage containers. The shelves are meticulously arranged with items such as binders, boxes, jars of supplies, and books, all categorized and ordered for easy access and efficient use of space.

Assess Your Space

Before you start shopping for storage solutions, take a look at the office space you have available. Do you have a lot of desk space or just a little? Are you working with a small cabinet or a large room? Knowing the dimensions of your space will help you choose storage solutions that fit and maximize your available space.

Consider Containers and Bins

Containers and bins are a great way to keep small items like paper clips, push pins, and erasers organized. Look for clear containers so you can easily see what's inside, and consider using stackable bins to save space.

A simple white box with a lid, placed on a white surface against a light grey background, portraying a clean and minimalistic storage solution. — stock image of a white storage box

Utilize Drawers and Filing Cabinets

If you have desk drawers or a filing cabinet, use them to your advantage. Desk drawer dividers can help keep different types of stationery separated and organized. Filing cabinets are great for organizing paperwork and larger items like notebooks and binders.

Keep in mind the system that you create for your paper files as you will likely want to mimic the same system for your digital files.

Get Creative with Mason Jars and Cardboard Boxes

Mason jars and cardboard boxes can be repurposed as storage containers for pens, pencils, and other small items. Paint or decorate them to match your decor and give your workspace a personalized touch.

Consider Plastic Tubs for Bulk Storage

If you have a lot of extra office supplies to store, consider using plastic tubs for bulk storage. Label the tubs with their contents so you can easily find what you need.

Use Pencil Cups for Frequently Used Items

Pencil cups are an easy way to keep frequently used items like pens and pencils within easy reach. Consider using multiple pencil cups to separate items by colour or function.

A decorative pot filled with a variety of colored pencils stands against a dark background. The pot features a beautifully embossed floral design, adding an artistic touch to this creative organizer. — image of a colourful pen or pencil holder

Avoid the Junk Drawer Trap

Junk drawers can quickly become a mess of random stationery items. Instead of using a junk drawer, try to keep everything organized in its own designated space. This will help you find what you need quickly and avoid clutter.

Organizing Your Desk and Workspace

A cluttered workspace can lead to a cluttered mind, making it difficult to focus and be productive. Having a tidy desk and workspace can help you feel more in control and increase your efficiency. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Clear Your Desk

The first step in organizing your desk is to clear everything off of it. This will give you a blank slate to work with and make it easier to see what you have and what you need to organize. As you clear your desk, sort everything into piles based on what it is and how often you use it.

A modern and minimalist home office setup featuring a sleek white desk with a desktop computer and matching accessories. A comfortable grey office chair, a stylish lamp, a decorative plant, and neatly organized stationery complete the clean and efficient workspace. The overall aesthetic is calm, with a focus on simplicity and productivity. — image of a clean and tidy desk

Use Desk Organizers

Desk organizers are a great way to keep your workspace tidy and organized. There are many different types of desk organizers available, including trays, file holders, and pencil cups. Choose the ones that work best for you and your needs.

Utilize Desk Drawers

If you have desk drawers, use them to store items that you don't use on a daily basis. This will help keep your desk surface clear and free of clutter. Use a drawer organizer to keep everything in its place and make it easy to find what you need.

image of desk drawer open with organized stationary inside — image of a desk drawer open showing the tidy office stationery within

Keep Only What You Need

Be ruthless when it comes to deciding what to keep on your desk. Only keep the items that you use on a regular basis and that are essential to your work. Anything else should be stored elsewhere or thrown away.

Create a System

Once you have organized your desk, create a system for maintaining it. Decide on a regular schedule for clearing off your desk and putting everything away. Make it a habit to keep your workspace tidy and organized, and you will find that you are more productive and efficient.

By following these tips, you can create a tidy and organized workspace that will help you be more productive and focused.

Labeling and Customizing Your Stationery

Organizing your stationery is not just about putting them in containers or drawers. Labelling and customizing your stationery can help you stay organized and find what you need quickly. Here are some tips to help you label and customize your stationery:

A close-up of a label holder on a drawer with the word "PHOTOS" indicating a dedicated space for storing photographs. The label holder has a classic design with a metal finish, attached to what appears to be a filing cabinet or storage drawer. — Image of storage bin that has a “PHOTOS” label

Use Labels

Labels are a great way to keep your stationery organized. You can use labels to identify what is inside each container or drawer. You can also use labels to categorize your stationery by colour, type, or use. For example, you can use green labels for highlighters, blue labels for pens, and yellow labels for sticky notes.

Customize Your Labels

Customizing your labels can help you personalize your stationery organization system. You can use different colours, fonts, and sizes to make your labels stand out. You can also use a label maker to create professional-looking labels. Label makers come in different sizes and styles, and they allow you to print out labels with different fonts, sizes, and symbols.

Use Different Colours

Using different colours can help you categorize your stationery and make it easier to find what you need. You can use different colours for different types of stationery, such as blue for pens, green for highlighters, and yellow for sticky notes. You can also use different colours for different categories, such as red for urgent items, blue for important items, and green for less important items.

Customize Your Stationery

Customizing your stationery can help you stay organized and motivated. You can use different colours, patterns, and designs to personalize your stationery. For example, you can use washi tape to decorate your pens or highlighters. You can also use stickers or stamps to add a personal touch to your stationery.

Organizing Small Spaces

If you have a small space to work with, organizing your stationery can be a challenge. But with some creativity and a few simple tools, you can make the most of your limited space.

A perfectly organized small workspace in a minimalist style, featuring clever use of a floating shelf and desk to maximize the area. The soothing neutral tones and strategic placement of greenery enhance the sense of calm and organization, ideal for those looking to optimize limited space. — small office space

One option is to use drawers to store your stationery. If you have a desk or workspace, consider investing in a set of plastic drawers to keep your supplies organized and out of sight. You can also use drawer dividers to keep items separated and easier to find.

If you don't have a desk or workspace, you can still use drawers to store your stationery. Look for small, portable drawers that can be easily moved around your home. These can be especially useful if you have a junk drawer that needs to be organized.

Another option for organizing small spaces is to use vertical storage. Consider hanging shelves or using a pegboard to keep your supplies off your workspace and within easy reach. You can also use small baskets or containers to keep items organized and separated.

Overall, the key to organizing small spaces is to be creative and make the most of the space you have. With a little effort and some simple tools, you can keep your stationery organized and within easy reach, no matter how small your space may be.

Creative Stationery Organization Ideas

If you're looking for some creative ways to organize your stationery, there are plenty of options available. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

An organized shelf above a desk, neatly displaying books with spines in a monochromatic scheme, two small potted plants, and minimalistic decor items, including a white lamp and clock. This setup reflects a tidy and stylish approach to organizing small spaces. — office with a wall shelf being used as storage

Compartments: Compartments are a great way to keep your stationery organized. You can use desktop organizers with multiple compartments, or use drawer organizers to keep everything in its place.
Baskets: Baskets are a versatile option for stationery organization. You can use them to store pens, pencils, and other small items, and they can be easily moved around as needed.
Wall organizers: Wall organizers are a great way to save space on your desk. You can use them to store your most frequently used items, and they come in a variety of sizes and styles.
Rolling carts: Rolling carts are a great option if you have a lot of stationery to organize. You can use them to store everything from pens and pencils to paper and notebooks, and they can be easily moved around as needed.

Overall, the key to organizing your stationery is to find a system that works for you. Whether you prefer compartments, baskets, or wall organizers, there are plenty of options available to help you keep your stationery neat and tidy.

Maintaining Your Organized Stationery

Now that you have organized your stationery, it is important to maintain it. Here are some tips to help you keep your stationery organized:

An illustration depicts a red-haired woman working at a neat desk with various organizational elements. The desk is equipped with stationery holders, a laptop, and personal items, reflecting an organized and productive workspace. Large windows provide a view of the sky and allow natural light to fill the room, creating a bright and airy atmosphere

Declutter regularly: Go through your stationery at least once a month and get rid of anything that you no longer need or use. This will help keep your stationery organized and prevent clutter from building up.
Use organizers: Make use of organizers such as pencil cases, file holders, and desk caddies to keep your stationery in order. This will help you find what you need quickly and easily.
Store items properly: Make sure that you store your stationery in the right place. For example, keep rubber and scissors in a drawer, and use a bookshelf or cabinet to store larger items such as charging stations.
Keep your desk clean: A clean desk will help you stay organized and focused. Make sure that you put away any stationery that you are not using, and keep your desk surface clear of clutter.
Plan ahead: Take a few minutes at the end of each day to plan ahead for the next day. This will help you stay on top of your tasks and ensure that you have the right stationery on hand.
Go paperless: Consider going paperless where possible. This will help reduce the amount of stationery that you need to keep organized, and will also help you to be more environmentally friendly.

By following these tips, you can maintain your organized stationery and enjoy a clutter-free workspace.

Wrapping Up

Organizing your stationery may seem like a small task, but it can have a big impact on your productivity and overall efficiency, and the general organization of your online business. By taking the time to sort through your supplies and decluttering what you don't need, you can free up space and make it easier to find what you're looking for.

A cheerful woman with curly hair and glasses is smiling warmly, seated in a tidy and well-organized home office environment. Behind her are bookshelves with neatly arranged books and plants, contributing to a pleasant and productive workspace ambiance.

Remember to keep only what you regularly use and need, and be ruthless when decluttering your supplies. Use dividers and organizers to keep your items neat and easily accessible. Label makers can also be helpful in categorizing your supplies.

Don't forget to regularly reassess and reorganize your stationery as needed.

By following these tips and techniques, you can create a well-organized stationery setup that saves you time, reduces stress, and boosts your productivity.

Are you looking for more tips on decluttering and organizing your home, not just your office? Check out Declutterbuzz. Marj is a life-long organizer and teacher on how to live a clutter-free lifestyle.

If you're a mom and you struggle with keeping all the things organized with your business and kids and all that comes with having young ones (or even teenagers – I think they're actually worse), then you need to check out Samantha's BootCampMom, where she'll whip your home back into shape using boot camps!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective ways to organize a stationery drawer without a desk?

If you don't have a desk, you can still organize your stationery drawer by using drawer dividers or small containers. You can use small boxes, jars, or even repurpose old containers to keep your supplies separated and easy to find. Another option is to use a hanging organizer that can be attached to the inside of a closet or cabinet door.

How can I organize my office supplies on shelves?

Shelves are a great way to organize your office supplies. You can use baskets or bins to group similar items together, such as notebooks or folders. You can also use bookends to keep books and binders upright. Labelling your shelves can also be helpful to quickly find what you need.

What are some tips for decluttering office supplies?

Start by going through all of your office supplies and separating them into three piles: keep, donate, and toss. Keep the items that you regularly use and need. If you haven't used a certain pen or notebook in over a year, it's time to let it go. Donate items that are in good condition but you no longer need, and toss anything that is broken or no longer usable.

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How can I organize my pens, pencils, and markers efficiently?

One option is to use a pen holder, pen case, or pencil cup to keep your writing utensils organized. You can also group them by type or colour and keep them in separate containers. Another option is to use a magnetic board or strip to keep your pens and markers visible and easily accessible.

What are some options for a stationery organizer?

There are many options for a stationery organizer, including desk organizers, drawer dividers, hanging organizers, and storage boxes. Choose the option that works best for your space and organization needs.

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Hi, I'm Lindsay!

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