Home offices are becoming more popular as more people move to remote work. Whether you’re an experienced remote worker or looking to start your own business, it’s important to have the right tools to be productive.
A quality desk lamp helps you focus and stay on task. Having enough light can also reduce eye strain and boost mood.
1. Desk Mat
A desk mat doesn’t sound like a huge home office essential, but it can actually be one of the most important pieces in your workspace. Not only does it protect your desk from stains and scratches, but it also acts as a keyboard tray to keep your mouse in place. Plus, they come in a variety of sizes and materials to fit your workspace perfectly.
For a modern take on this classic desk accessory, check out the Orbitkey vegan leather option. This dual-sided desk mat is inspired by intentional living and contemporary design, and it comes with a convenient document hideaway for loose papers and notes that’ll stay organized and out of the way. It also has a magnetic cable holder that can be moved anywhere along the toolbar to keep your cords tangle-free and in reach.
Another great option is Grovemade’s polyurethane desk mat. This durable material is tough enough to hold up to spills and stains, but it feels and looks just like traditional leather. It’s available in a range of colors to suit any home office, and you can even have it customized with a debossed monogram.
2. USB Microphone
For remote workers, a quality USB microphone is a must. Designed to minimise ambient noise, these devices are ideal for podcasts, streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube, voice-overs and online meetings. They’re also a great way to improve home office audio.
Unlike headset microphones, USB microphones come in a variety of different styles and are capable of picking up sound from multiple directions. Generally, they use a cardioid pickup pattern to focus on the main sound source. This makes them perfect for recording vocals and instruments, but can also work well for chat programs such as Skype or Teams.
The heart of every microphone is a diaphragm, a thin membrane that vibrates in response to sound waves and converts mechanical energy into electrical signals. This allows the microphone to pick up audio, which can then be stored or transmitted as digital data. USB microphones bypass the need for a mixer, external power supply and phantom power to provide an easy-to-use and cost-effective alternative to traditional studio setups. However, they typically sample at bare-minimum rates and offer little control over input levels.
3. Wireless Speakers
Having a dedicated workspace is increasingly essential as more people opt to work from home. While working from the sofa is certainly comfortable and convenient, a dedicated space increases productivity significantly. This can be achieved by setting up a home office with the right equipment and accessories.
A good pair of wireless speakers is one such essential accessory for a home office. While in some ways they are much the same as their wired counterparts (they’re boxes that use drivers to turn electronic signals into sound), they are different in other important respects. The biggest difference is that wireless speakers don’t need a physical cable to accept those electronic signals.
Depending on the speaker, you may be able to use an app on your phone or tablet to connect and control it. You’ll also find many models offer smart tech, allowing you to use voice commands and integrate with streaming services. You can even link a number of speakers together to create a multi-room system. Some of these speakers are designed to be aesthetically pleasing, ensuring they fit in with your home decor.
4. USB Power Strip
Work-from-home professionals need reliable equipment to stay productive. Nothing is more frustrating than having a video call with your boss or client and relying on outdated technology that gives you pixelated screens, slow video playback, and even choppy audio. Here are Gifts for Men that you can buy for special occasions.
Adding an anti-fatigue mat to your home office can help you work longer and improve your posture. You can also invest in a keyboard and mouse, which will allow you to type faster and more efficiently. Having an ergonomic keyboard will also prevent wrist pain later in life.
A USB charging station is an excellent addition to any home office. It allows you to charge multiple devices at the same time and keeps your workspace clean and organized by removing the need for messy cords and power strips.
It’s also important to invest in a surge protector for your home office. This device will keep your electronics safe from damage and will save you money in the long run. In addition, investing in a fast internet connection is an essential part of any home office.
5. Cell Phone Stand
As business travel resumes, and individuals return to their work-from-home arrangements, a cell phone stand can help increase productivity. Whether it’s monitoring calls or checking email, being able to see everything on your phone’s screen makes it easier for you to take control of the situation and make better decisions.
A cell phone stand can also improve your posture by eliminating neck strain. Moreover, it can help you avoid eye fatigue by giving your eyes a break from your computer screen. This small change can have a huge impact on your focus and productivity throughout the day.
A wireless keyboard and mouse combo can streamline your work space by eliminating the clutter of cables. Furthermore, many of today’s wireless combos have additional features like programmable keys and ergonomic designs for increased comfort and efficiency.
6. Cable Clips
Cable clips are an essential home office accessory to help organize and conceal a messy cord or wire run, creating a neat appearance while minimizing the risk of tangling and damage. They are simple and straightforward to install, typically consisting of a clip or holder that securely holds the cable in place and is then secured to the surface of your desk or keyboard tray. There are several different types of cable clips available, including self-adhesive options that are convenient for smooth surfaces and easily removed without leaving residue or damaging the surface.
There are also screw-in cable clips that are suitable for use in a variety of materials and provide a strong hold. These can be used to secure longer runs of cables or wiring to walls, furniture, or along baseboards. They are ideal for use in homes or offices that are not exposed to outdoor elements and weather conditions.
Adding an anti-fatigue mat to your workstation is another way to improve comfort while working at your desk, helping you get through the day with ease. Adding some framed wall art can also help to create a more personal workspace by expressing your style and bringing in some inspiration and motivation.
7. Coffee Station
A home coffee station adds a personal touch to your workspace and elevates your morning routine. Incorporate your favorite mugs, cups, and tea accessories to create a welcoming display that encourages you to explore new flavors. Also, include utensils like spoons and bowls to ensure everything is readily available. If space allows, a few napkins stashed nearby will come in handy for those inevitable spills and messes.
If you’re working with limited counter space, try incorporating vertical storage solutions like shelves or wall-mounted organizers to keep all your coffee supplies and utensils neatly arranged. Or, if you have an open shelving design in your kitchen, hang hooks or create a mug gallery to showcase your collection of beautiful coffee mugs. You can even use a shelf with barriers and rails to display your mugs and prevent them from getting knocked over.
To enhance the cozy ambiance of your coffee station, consider hanging framed coffee-themed artwork or inspirational quotes. These accents will inspire you to work efficiently and focus on your productivity.
8. Desk Storage
Having plenty of storage is key to keeping your desk clean and organized, which helps foster focus. Consider a wire rack, rolling carts or shelves for books and extra supplies, like this modular set from the Container Store that’s easy to expand as your needs change.
Decker also recommends buying a set of drawer organizers to corral items like pens, batteries, tape, sticky notes and pencils. She says, “I like to Tetris them together in my drawers so there are dividers to keep things from shifting around.”
A good task lamp is another one of those home office essentials that’s often overlooked yet can improve mood and productivity radically. Plus, a quality lamp can be more energy-efficient than overhead lighting and reduces eye strain.
Finally, invest in a paper shredder to get rid of sensitive and confidential business documents and papers you no longer need. And, a trash bin or recycling bin to hold the rest of your disposable paper is a must for an environmentally friendly home office.