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I have been working from home for 3 years now, and I have rearranged my home office so many times. Why? Because I need things to be juuuussttt right in order for me to do the best work possible. Are you similar?
If so, this is the post for you.
More and more people are becoming remote workers (and have been for a few years now!) which is great – but is your home office set up in such a way that makes you the most productive and comfortable that you can be?
If you’re not sure, here is a list of 35 remote work office equipment essentials that you need to make your work days the best they can possibly be! Trust me, you’re gonna want this work-from-home equipment.
This post is all about the best work from home equipment.
1. Desk
Perhaps the most essential element of an effective home office is a good desk. Having a desk that feels right, and is large enough for whatever you need for work, is a really important piece of making your workspace comfortable. You don’t want to end up buying a desk that is too small, or that doesn’t fit in your space.
Take time finding the right desk for you, and don’t hesitate to return it if it doesn’t feel right.
Feng Shui tip! They say it’s best to position your desk so that you can see the door to the room when you are sitting at your desk, but you shouldn’t be in line with the door.
According to The Spruce, “This position gives you a better view of opportunities and ideas. It can also help you feel less stressed and more at ease on a subconscious level because you can see anyone or anything that might be approaching.”
2. Ergonomic Office Chair
Remote employees NEED ergonomic office chairs! If you’re not familiar with ergonomics, it’s “an applied science concerned with designing and arranging things people use so that the people and things interact most efficiently and safely.” This essentially means that anything ergonomic has been designed in such a way that it’s optimal, safe, and comfortable for you to use.
It is really important that you invest in a chair that is ergonomic since you’re likely going to be sitting down a lot. An ergonomic chair will help you maintain good posture.
3. Water Bottle
We all know how important it is to stay hydrated, so you’re going to want to have a water bottle nearby at all times while you are working! If you’re looking for something classic that’ll keep your water cold, you can’t go wrong with a Hydro Flask.
If you could use a little motivation to drink your water, you should check out the water bottles that encourage you to drink a certain amount for every hour of the day! Aside from being motivational, these water bottles are just really fun.
4. Coffee/Tea Mug
Do you drink coffee or tea? If so, you’re going to want a proper mug to keep your drink of choice warm.
YETI products are always a great option if you are looking to keep your coffee/tea warm, but if you’re looking for something a little more affordable, you can always use a simple mug with a saying that makes working from home just a little bit better.
5. Desktop Computer / Monitor
I’m not sure how I did it, but for the first year that I worked from home at the start of the pandemic, I only used my laptop for all of my work. I know this negatively impacted my productivity and efficiency while working, especially as someone who was previously coming from an office environment where I had three monitors.
It helps tremendously to have dual monitors (or more than two screens). You can be working on something on one screen, and refer to something on your second screen as you are doing that, for example.
You can find a decent monitor so many places, but you might also be able to find computer equipment at your local thrift store – it’s worth looking!
Below is the monitor that I have had for over a year now, and I absolutely love it. It’s HUGE but that’s why it’s so great – I am so productive with this thing!
6. Wireless Keyboard
If you end up getting an additional monitor for your home office, you should also consider getting a keyboard to accompany that monitor.
If you don’t get an additional keyboard, you’ll have to use your laptop keyboard for your laptop and your monitor. This is possible, but it can definitely be inconvenient. Buying a separate keyboard for your monitor makes things a lot easier.
Here’s a tip: If you have Mac laptop, you’ll want to get a Mac keyboard for your monitor. Similarly, if you have a laptop that runs Windows software, you’ll want to get a Windows-compatible keyboard (no matter what kind of monitor you get).
You’ll be able to operate your keyboard no matter what kind you get, but if you get a Windows keyboard for a Mac laptop, for example, some of the keys will not work on your Windows keyboard, just because the keyboard and laptop won’t be 100% compatible.
7. Wireless Mouse
Unless you want to use your laptop’s track pad to move your mouse, you should consider getting a wireless mouse. Not only is this so much more comfortable, but you’ll likely be a lot more efficient with your work because using a stand-alone mouse is a lot easier than using the one built-in to your laptop.
Take it from me – I once used the trackpad on my laptop for over a year and my fingers actually started to go numb after hours of use…seriously! Put your physical health (and of course your mental health) first and make sure you invest in the things that you need for a comfortable office space.
And again, if you have a Windows laptop, you should get a Windows-compatible mouse, and a Mac mouse if you have a Mac machine. It makes things so much easier because they’ll be compatible!
8. Curtains
If your office desk will be near a window, you may want to invest in some curtains. When the sun’s coming up or going down during your work day and it pierces through your blinds, it can leave you with streaks across your face during your meetings, or even worse, just blind you entirely lol.
If you want to avoid this altogether, invest in some curtains that’ll block the sunlight whenever you need them to.
9. Planner
Need a way to keep track of all the work that you’ve done or that you have to do? If so, a planner is a great way to stay organized.
If you can’t find a planner that you like on Amazon, for example, you can buy a planner at any home office store (like Office Depot or Staples) or somewhere like Target or TJ Maxx.
10. Calendar
You might have a calendar for work or one on your computer, but it’s always nice to have a personal calendar nearby, too. This way, not only are your work meetings scheduled, but you can write down all of your personal appointments and plans down, too.
11. Notebook
If you like to take notes during meetings or to brainstorm, then having a notebook will be really helpful. You can take notes on your computer, using an application like Microsoft Word or Google Docs, but if you’re more likely to retain information that you write down, you can never have enough notebooks.
12. Pens/Pencils
In order to write things down in your planner, calendar or notebook, you’ll want to have some pens you like nearby. If you’ll be writing a lot, you might as well buy some pens/pencils that you actually love!
13. Pen/Pencil holder
If you want to make sure that your desk stays clean and organized, grab yourself a pen/pencil holder. Pen/pencil holders can be so cute, too!
14. Noise-canceling headphones
If you are easily distracted by outside sounds, you should invest in a nice pair of noise-cancelling headphones. These are a game-changer when it comes to reducing outside distraction while you work.
It can also be really helpful to have a good headset if you’re the type of person that likes to wear a headset during video calls. May people use apple devices like air pods, but if you prefer something a little more tailored to remote work and business calls, you should definitely consider getting a nice headset.
15. Regular headphones
If you don’t necessarily need noise-cancelling headphones, but love to listen to podcasts or music while you work, having a nice pair of headphones nearby can help make your work day even better.
16. Blanket
It’s always convenient to have a blanket nearby (or draped over your desk chair!) if you’re one to get cold. As an alternative, you can always keep a jacket in your office as well.
17. Space Heater
You can also invest in a small space heater if you can never get your office temperature just right in the colder months.
18. Desk Lamp
Low on light? It’s always convenient to have a light nearby, just in case you have to take a video call and you need a little light, or if you find yourself wanting more light while you work.
19. Light Therapy Lamp
I’ve seen more and more people trying these light therapy lamps! These lamps are said to help people “fight winter blues, jet lag, shift work or seasonal changes” and also help boost energy. If you are someone who lives in a location or a home that doesn’t get a lot of natural light, a light therapy land might be worth a shot!
20. Stand up desk
They say sitting is the new smoking. In order to ensure that you are getting out of your chair as often as you can, you can invest in a stand up desk. These are a little bit pricier but can be a great way to make sure that you are standing up and getting a bit more exercise throughout your day.
21. Anti-fatigue Floor Mat
If you are going to get a stand up desk, you’ll want an anti-fatigue mat under your feet so that you can be as comfortable as possible while standing. These mats can help take the strain off of your feet, knees, and legs if you plan on standing for long periods of time.
Anti-fatigue floor mats are often seen in places like grocery stores where cashiers stand for long periods of time. If you think you might be standing at your stand up desk for more than just 15 minutes or so at a time, investing in an anti-fatigue floor mat is a great idea.
22. Candle & Lighter
This one’s for the vibes 😉 It’s so nice to light an amazing-smelling candle before you start your work for the day. If you pick a relaxing sent, it can really set the tone for your day ahead.
23. Extension Cords
Inevitably, you’ll have a lot of things to plug in between your monitors, chargers, and whatever else you end up using near your work station. This is where extension cords come in really handy, especially if the number of outlets around your desk is limited.
24. Outlet Cover
I learned this one from my friend @dragonflyreads on Instagram : ) If you want to put any of your office furniture flush against a wall, but your plugs are sticking out and preventing you from doing so, use these outlet covers that double as an extension cord. This way, you can push your furniture against your walls as needed.
25. Desktop organizer
If you want to keep your desk organized, having a desktop organizer is imperative. Your organizer can store pens & pencils, sticky notes, a stapler, and whatever other items you use throughout your work day.
26. Printer
Not everyone needs a printer, but printers can be so convenient – even for printing day to day life things outside of work!
27. Printer paper/ink
If you do get a printer, keep in mind the other items that you will need to buy in order for it to work, like printer paper and printer ink.
28. A Plant
Having a plant nearby goes back to the candle situation – it’s just great for vibes! Having a plant will help create a relaxing atmosphere so that you can have an even more pleasant work day.
I personally keep a money tree in my office – money trees are said to bring good luck and prosperity to their owners. Plus, they’re pretty easy to take care of!
29. Trash can
Last but certainly not least, you’ll want to keep a trash can near your desk if you want to keep your work station clean and organized.
30. Fast internet service
Have you thought about this? High-speed internet is one of those things that often gets overlooked until the last minute. If you want to start off your remote job on the right foot, you need all the necessary equipment, of course, but a reliable internet connection is imperative, too!
What’s nice about being a remote employee is that some companies will even offer a monthly stipend so you can be reimbursed for your internet service. Definitely look into this if you think your company might offer it!
31. Laptop stand
If you have a laptop AND a desktop monitor, it’s a good idea to have them both at the same level / height. If you don’t have a laptop stand, it’s likely that your laptop is always lower than you monitor, which can be bad for your physical health. So instead, make sure you invest in a laptop stand or a laptop riser to avoid neck pain.
32. High School Diploma Or College Diploma
Now this is more of a fun suggestion, but why not proudly display the education that helped you get your job on your office walls?! You can get your diploma framed nicely and always be reminded of the hard work you put in over the years to earn that. Diplomas make for nice work environment décor, too!
33. Mobile phone
Some companies may offer new employees a mobile phone. Work phones can be a great way to keep your work life and home life separate – which of course, will be great for your mental health! Just be sure to not spend too much time on your work phone and use it only when you are on the clock. Otherwise, you’ll find yourself working more hours than you originally planned for.
34. Treadmill / Walking Pad
These are allll the rage these days, but it’s obvious why. If you’re going to be in one place (at your desk) for so many hours a day, why not get some steps, right?
By investing in a treadmill for your home office, you’ll be able to get so much exercise in ways you couldn’t before. This is a serious benefit for your overall health.
35. White noise machine
I used to work at a call center, and so the entire building had white noise going through it all day every day. At first, this was really noticeable. But after a while, you could barely hear the white noise – you really just got used to it. Some people need white noise on at all times while they work. If you are someone who constantly needs background noise, try investing in a white noise machine! It may just help you be even more productive.
Conclusion
Having a proper home office setup for your remote job is so important and can be a serious game changer. This list of home office essentials will surely help you be as productive as possible.
If you’re fortunate, your company may even offer a one-time (or even monthly) equipment allowance which could really help offset some of the costs of your office supplies.
Remote working will ultimately save you so much money and time in the long run (think saving money on gas, saving time by not commuting), but you may have to spend some cash upfront.
This post was all about 35 work from home must-haves that you need for a productive, efficient and comfortable work day.
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