6 Simple Steps for Clean Your Desk Day

Albert Einstein is often quoted as asking—perhaps defensively—“If a cluttered desk is a sign of a cluttered mind, of what, then, is an empty desk a sign?” For many, the answer isn’t his inference of an empty mind, but instead, a mind that is organized, tranquil, and peaceful—and equally, an environment that is clean and safe.

Today is Clean Your Desk Day—a time put aside every second Monday in January to get down to a task many might be dreading but can reap plenty of rewards. According to building service contractor company ServiceMaster Clean^®, having a clean desk also means being more focused, appearing more professional, and having more room to work.

Here are ServiceMaster’s six simple steps to get your desk clean and organized today:

• Clear all your stuff off the desk. By removing everything, you’ll be able to better clean the surfaces of your desk. You’ll also be able to better determine what you really need to put back on your desk and what should instead go elsewhere.
• Clean and sanitize. Clean and then sanitize all the surfaces of your desk, as well as items that sit on your desk, such as your monitor, keyboard, and phone, and any other objects frequently touched. Be sure to use all cleaning products correctly (see to learn more).
• Organize small supplies. Make sure that often-used things like paper clips, sticky pads, and pens are placed in a designated area that’s easily accessible.
• Tidy up paperwork. Ask yourself which papers truly need to be on your desk and which can be moved to another location.
• Make use of drawers. Any supplies you don’t use frequently can be delegated to a desk drawer, rather than sit on your desktop.
• Add a trash bin. Put it right next to your desk, so you have a quick and easy way to throw out any old, unnecessary papers and other trash, so that it doesn’t accumulate on your desk.