National Clean Off Your Desk Day (January 10)

ByClare Brown Posted on Updated on

A messy desk can slow you down, increase stress, and make it harder to focus. National Clean Off Your Desk Day is the perfect opportunity to reset your workspace and boost productivity.

Whether you work from home, in an office, or just want to tidy up your study area, this day serves as a great reminder to declutter and organize.

Plus, with so many funny days in January, this one is a practical and beneficial way to start the year fresh.

When is the Holiday?

National Clean Off Your Desk Day is observed on the second Monday of January each year.

Who Invented It?

The exact origins of the holiday are not known, but it likely started as a workplace initiative to encourage better organization and productivity.

Many offices have adopted it as a way to promote efficiency and boost employee morale at the start of the new year.

The History of the Holiday

We’re not entirely certain when or how this holiday first began, but it’s definitely a useful one!

After weeks of vacation for the holidays and an entire year’s worth of clutter, your desk definitely needs to be cleaned off.

The word “desk” comes from the Latin word desca, meaning “a table you write on.” The word originated in the 1300s, though desks were uncommon since most people worked on the land.

By the 1700s, desks became more popular in workplaces and homes. Today, they’re a staple in almost every building.

Experts agree that a functional workspace is important for productivity and focus.

Research also shows that cluttered desks can lead to frustration, procrastination, and even increased anxiety levels.

white clean desk

Top 5 Facts About the Holiday

  1. National Clean Off Your Desk Day is always on the second Monday of January, making it a great time for a fresh start in the new year.
  2. A Princeton University study found that cluttered spaces can reduce your brain’s ability to focus and process information effectively.
  3. The first office desks were used by monks and scribes in the Middle Ages, often featuring intricate designs and storage compartments.
  4. Many people spend an average of six weeks per year looking for misplaced items, proving the value of an organized workspace.
  5. Some companies encourage employees to clean their desks with contests, offering prizes for the most organized space.

Activities to Celebrate

  • Declutter and organize your workspace – Remove unnecessary papers, supplies, and items that don’t serve a purpose.
  • Sort through paperwork and shred unnecessary documents – Reduce clutter by digitizing important papers.
  • Clean and sanitize your workspace – Wipe down surfaces, disinfect your keyboard and mouse, and freshen up your workspace.
  • Rearrange your desk layout for better efficiency – Optimize your space to reduce distractions and improve workflow.
  • Invest in desk organizers – Use file folders, bins, and dividers to keep your essentials within reach.
  • Implement a daily cleaning habit – Set a reminder to tidy up at the end of each workday to maintain a clutter-free space.
  • Encourage co-workers or family to join in – Make it a group effort and help others organize their desks too.
clean desk

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Links to Resources

Check out these great resources to help keep your desk organized year-round:

  • Desk Organization Tips – Learn simple strategies to create a functional and clutter-free desk.
  • Cord Organization Ideas – Find creative ways to manage cables and prevent tangled messes.
  • DIY Drawer Dividers – Use inexpensive materials to keep drawers neat and organized.
  • Creating a Homework Station – Set up an effective workspace for kids to stay focused and productive.
  • Desk Organizer with File Holder. This multifunctional organizer features a 5-tier paper letter tray, a drawer, and two pen holders, providing ample storage for documents and office supplies. Its mesh design offers durability and a modern look.
  • 2-Tier Metal Monitor Stand. Elevate your monitor to a comfortable viewing height while gaining additional storage space. This stand includes a drawer and pen holder, helping to declutter your desk and improve ergonomics.
  • Pen Organizer with 2 Drawers. Ideal for smaller items, this pen organizer offers five compartments and two drawers, perfect for storing writing instruments, notepads, and other accessories. Its compact design keeps essentials within reach without occupying much desk space.

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