If you are running a side business out of your home or are contemplating extensive time spent behind a computer working as a trainer, consultant or penning your own memoir after you retire, then an organized and comfortable home office is a must. A workspace that you look forward to immersing yourself in is optimal, and one that includes modern amenities and features designed to improve your health is even better. Below are several essential items that will make the hours spent in your home office feel a bit less like work and more like home sweet home.
Power strips
Starting from the ground up, every modern home office is bound to have numerous electronic devices that will need to be powered. Power strips with surge protection are your best bets here, as they can redirect power surges and save your plugged-in devices (and potentially your residence) from a house fire.
- Standard surge protector: When planning a new home office, invest in a power strip with as many outlets as possible since electronic devices (from computers to chargers to lamps) tend to pile up quickly – aim for 10-20 outlets.
- Surge protector tower: Kill two birds with one stone by purchasing a tower unit you can place on your desktop. It may mean more visible wires, but the plus here is that you can directly charge USB and USB-C devices like cell phones and tablets while simultaneously powering multiple AC devices.
Wireless keyboard and mouse
If you are looking to cut down on the number of cords in your home office, your keyboard and mouse are an easy place to start. Just insert the USB dongle into your device and enjoy wireless typing and the freedom to scroll with your mouse from up to 33 feet away from your computer. Grab a combo that features a phone and tablet holder for the ultimate multi-tasking setup.
Computer monitor
A reliable monitor with premium picture quality is a vital home office component. Target a unit that features HDMI, USB and display port inputs to cover all the connectivity options. A monitor with an eye-saver feature that lowers blue light levels is a bonus for longer work hours.
Letter trays
Even with emails, texts and pretty much any document being available online, desks still somehow end up cluttered with random documents, bills and notes. Get your home office in order with these organizers. These trays are an old-school option to keep folders, notebooks, manuals and documents organized. Pick up a unit with an attached pen and pencil holders to keep all your writing tools in check as well.
Pen and pencil holder
Add a little character to your home office with a novelty pen and pencil holder. Perhaps one that pays tribute to a vintage typewriter will do the trick. It will certainly make you thankful for the backspace button on modern computers.
Office chair
A quality office chair can improve circulation, help reduce back and neck pain, and keep your spine in its natural alignment. Target a chair with adjustable lumbar support, 90 to 120 degrees of recline, flexible armrests and a weight capacity of up to 300 pounds. A 5-year warranty is an added bonus.
Electric standing desk
If sitting for hours on end is (literally) bringing you down, an electric standing desk is a great way to mix things up. These desks offer the best of both worlds with adjustable heights that work with both seated and standing usage. Target a unit that has a height range from 28-46 inches and that can hold over 150 pounds.
Temperature-controlled mug
If you are a coffee addict, this mug may be a higher priority than any other item on this list. Imagine your favorite coffee blend in a cup on your desk consistently at the precise temperature you love. You set your preferred temperature, and the smart mug keeps it there for the duration.
