If you've ever tried to convince someone that the towering piles of mismatched paperwork clogging your desk are a perfectly adequate filing system, consider this your go-to list for everything you'll need to store, scan and save the contents of your home office (and your sanity).
1 | File fortress.
Some paperwork pile-up is unavoidable, whether it takes the form of old tax documents or precious family photos. This lockable storage tower keeps it all secure, organized and off your desk with three file drawers, shelves for books and decorative storage boxes, and even a wardrobe compartment. Storage Tower, $125 pre-owned or $925 new, Furniture Soup, 170 Corporate Dr., Bldg. #1, Reading, 610.926.8700. furnituresoup.com
2 | Save it.
Easily keep a digital file of your most important documents with this mobile scanner, which quickly captures paperwork, receipts, photos and even tiny cards. Weighing under one pound and measuring less than a foot long, this little USB-powered task master won't demand valuable desktop space like its bulky predecessors. Brother DS-620 Mobile Color Page Scanner, $139, Computer Wizards, 325 W. Main St., Kutztown, 484.646.9064. shopcomputerwizards.com
3 | Then safely discard!
This slender shredder comes in handy with its slim, inconspicuous design. At only 8 inches wide it can easily go unnoticed under your desk, and it’s hassle-free! Check out the angled paper feed and easy-empty 5-gallon bin. Staples and credit cards are no match for this small-but-mighty machine. Staples® Space-Saver 10-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder, starting at $149.99, Staples, stores in Wyomissing and Exeter Township. staples.com
4 | Surprise supplies.
White polka dots add a touch of whimsy to otherwise ho-hum office essentials like paper clips and sticky notes; keep them close at hand but tidily enshrined in a pretty little package. The full line offers an array of coordinating bins, tins and folders to wrangle any office into tip-top shape. See Jane Work® Decorative Storage Supply Box, $9.99, Office Depot, 2753 Papermill Rd., Reading, 610.374.7808. officedepot.com
5 | Collect your thoughts.
This customizable notebook's uniquely designed pages let you rearrange and reorganize later, filing away to-do lists, appointments and anything else you can ponder in their proper places. Use an Arc hole punch to incorporate errant scraps of paper or choose compatible zip pockets to stow pens, USBs and other necessities. Staples® Arc Notebook System, starting at $16.99 plus accessories, Staples, stores in Wyomissing and Exeter Township. staples.com
