Are you looking to upgrade your home office setup to work like a pro? If you’ve recently started to work from home or are about to start, you know how important it is to have a dedicated workspace. It’s hard to stay in your zone of genius if your office just so happens to also be your kids’ play room. But it’s not just distracting; it can get in the way of doing your job properly.
The truth is, without a good workspace, you end up being way less productive. Common issues like constant interruptions and uncomfortable seating can take a toll on your body and mind. Back pain can also become a big issue when you work from home, especially sitting at a makeshift desk (like the dinner table) or on chairs that don’t support your back.
But don’t worry! Don’t let these challenges scare you out of one of the most rewarding ways to work. With a little planning and the right gear, you can make your home office a comfortable and efficient place to work. There are plenty of options out there, from ergonomic office chairs to desks that let you stand up while you work.
So if you’re tired of dealing with distractions and discomfort while working from home, stick with us. We’ll show you some essential items that can help you create a home office setup that’s both comfortable and productive. Working from home is about to get a whole lot easier.
The Challenges of Home Office Life
While the freedom of working from home comes with a long list of benefits, there are still some challenges that can accompany it.
For some, finding a designated workspace can be a major challenge. Not everyone has the luxury of converting a spare room into a home office. Sometimes the best you can do is stake your claim in the corner of a room and cross your fingers that it remains uncluttered and away from the kids.
As time passes, other remote workers may struggle with overuse injuries or straining if they don’t have proper ergonomic work-from-home setup essentials. Working from your bed or couch might seem comfortable at first, but the toll it quickly takes on your posture can lead to persistent backaches and neck strains, hindering your productivity in the long run.
Hours spent typing away on a less-than-ideal keyboard or hunched over a makeshift desk can lead to wrist pain, backaches, and other musculoskeletal issues. These nagging injuries not only prevent you from getting things done but also impact your overall well-being.
Acknowledging the importance of ergonomics in your home office setup is crucial for preventing the risk of these injuries. By investing in ergonomic furniture and accessories, you can create a workspace that supports your body and promotes long-term health. So, as we explore the essential items for your home office, keep in mind the importance of prioritizing comfort and ergonomics to prevent repetitive use injuries and ensure a more enjoyable and sustainable remote work experience.
But no matter what your home office setup looks like or which ergonomic accessories you have, if there’s a lack of separation between work life and home life, it can pose a significant challenge. When your office is just a few steps away from your living space, it becomes all too tempting to blur the boundaries between work hours and relaxation time, making it difficult to switch off and unwind.
But by creating the right office environment—one that promotes better focus at work, supports your physical well-being, and establishes clear boundaries—you can regain control of your time and stay productive as you tackle your work to-do list.
Work from Home Items Everyone Needs
Not all office furniture is created equal—but comfort is key to your well-being in the long run. If your home office setup leaves a lot to be desired in terms of ergonomics and coziness, you’re likely to find yourself gravitating towards the comfier confines of your living room couch.
To enjoy the benefits of working from home and overcome any drawbacks, you need to have a well-equipped workspace. The following are some work-from-home setup essentials that will help you do just that:
1. Desk
One of the first things you’ll need to purchase, whether you’re working in a dedicated office or a corner of another room, is a desk.
When selecting a desk, prioritize functionality and comfort. Opt for a surface area that accommodates your work essentials, such as a computer, monitor, and keyboard. Consider the desk’s height and legroom to ensure ergonomic alignment and minimize strain on your wrists and back during extended work sessions.
A good option is a corner desk that tucks away with ease but still gives you plenty of space to work. If you’re really short on space, this even smaller triangle computer desk will allow you to set up shop in just about any room of the house—even if you have to do so by clearing out a closet!
You may want to consider an adjustable desk that can transition from a sitting to a standing desk as well. This electric standing desk is the perfect addition to your home office if you’d like to have the option to sit down or stretch your legs. This can help you from sitting all day—a common issue with remote workers.
2. Treadmill
While traditional office setups require long hours of sedentary work, remote work offers the opportunity to incorporate physical activity into your daily routine seamlessly. Enter the under-desk treadmill—an innovative solution that allows you to stay active while tackling your work tasks.
An under-desk treadmill consists of a treadmill base that tucks away neatly under any standing desk, providing a convenient workstation that encourages movement throughout the day. By walking at a slow pace while working, you can combat the negative effects of prolonged sitting, such as reduced circulation and increased risk of chronic health conditions.
Treadmill desks have been shown to enhance cognitive function and productivity. The gentle rhythmic motion of walking stimulates blood flow to the brain, promoting mental clarity and focus. Plus, the act of walking can serve as a creative outlet, boosting inspiration and problem-solving.
When considering a treadmill desk for your home office, look for models that can be tucked away easily and have a larger running zone. Also consider factors such as noise level, portability, and ease of assembly to ensure easy integration into your work environment.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly alternative, try these hydraulic fitness steppers. The idea is the same but instead of walking, you’ll be stepping for your cardio. They are just 16 pounds so you can easily tuck them away whenever they aren’t in use.
3. Office Chair
Even if you invest in a treadmill or standing desk for your home office, you’ll need an ergonomic office chair as well. You never know when you’re going to need to sit down and take a rest during the day.
Investing in an ergonomic office chair is key for maintaining proper posture and minimizing the risk of discomfort or injury during long work sessions. It may be a bit of an upfront investment but you’ll thank yourself later.
When selecting an office chair, consider factors such as material quality, durability, and ease of assembly. A sturdy base with smooth-rolling casters ensures mobility and stability, while high-quality upholstery materials ensure it will be durable and easy to maintain.
Look for a chair that offers adjustable features such as seat height, armrest height, and lumbar support to accommodate your unique body dimensions and preferences. Ergonomic chairs with contoured seat cushions and breathable mesh backrests provide optimal comfort and support, allowing you to focus on your tasks without distractions. This chair comes with a five-year warranty to ensure that it will last you for many years to come in your remote career.
While stylish designs may be appealing, functionality should take precedence to ensure optimal comfort and productivity.
4. Laptop Stand
If you’re working from a laptop, which is common for a lot of work-from-home professionals these days, you ought to look for a stand for that laptop. That way, you can treat it like a desktop computer and won’t have to worry about hunching over it while sitting at your desk. You still get to enjoy the portability benefits though.
A laptop stand can significantly improve your ergonomic setup and enhance your overall comfort while working. By elevating your laptop to eye level, a stand helps reduce strain on your neck and shoulders, preventing the dreaded “tech neck” that often accompanies prolonged laptop use.
Consider looking for a laptop stand with adjustable height and angle settings to customize your viewing experience and promote proper posture. Some stands feature built-in cooling fans or ventilation to prevent your laptop from overheating during extended use, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
When selecting a laptop stand, always look for one that’s compatible with your laptop model. Choose a sturdy stand with non-slip grips to keep your laptop securely in place while you work. Additionally, opt for a lightweight and foldable design if you need to transport your laptop stand between different workspaces or locations.
Explore stands with additional features such as integrated cable management systems or built-in USB hubs for added convenience and functionality. By incorporating any of these laptop stands into your home office setup, you can work more comfortably and efficiently, maximizing your productivity and reducing the risk of repetitive strain injuries.
5. Wireless Keyboard
When you’re using a laptop stand to elevate your laptop screen to eye level, having a wireless keyboard becomes even more essential. This setup promotes better ergonomics by reducing strain on your neck and shoulders, allowing you to maintain a comfortable and neutral posture while you work.
With a wireless keyboard, you can position it wherever feels most natural for you—whether on your desk, in your lap, or even on a separate keyboard tray. This freedom of movement not only enhances your comfort but also promotes productivity by enabling you to find your optimal typing position.
Look for options that are thin and light with an ergonomic design. This will help you work comfortably for long periods if needed. Not only will you be upgrading your workspace with the right keyboard; you’ll prioritize your health and well-being for long-term success in your remote work journey.
6. Wireless Mouse
A wireless mouse is a must as well. Even if you’re using a regular desktop computer instead of a laptop, a wireless mouse can still be easy to use and is less frustrating than a regular mouse.
The convenience of a wireless mouse extends beyond its freedom from tangled cords. With wireless connectivity, you can work from various positions without being tethered to your desk, promoting a more flexible and comfortable workflow. An ergonomic wireless mouse is another great option, as it will allow you to navigate your digital workspace with ease and precision, enhancing your productivity and creativity.
Most mice come with batteries or are rechargeable. Just remember to keep your wireless mouse charged or equipped with spare batteries to ensure uninterrupted usage throughout your workday.
7. Floor or Desk Lamp
Your home office needs to have plenty of light to help you stay alert and focused throughout the day. If your office is short on natural light, try to make up for it by setting up a floor lamp or an LED desk lamp (or both). This will give you more light exposure and help prevent eye strain and headaches.
A well-lit workspace is essential for maintaining productivity and reducing eye strain, especially during extended periods of screen time. Floor lamps and desk lamps offer targeted illumination to brighten up specific areas of your workspace, creating a comfortable and conducive environment for work. Look for lamps with adjustable brightness levels and color temperature settings to customize your lighting settings based on your preferences and tasks.
Consider lamps with adjustable arms or heads that allow you to direct the light precisely where you need it, whether it’s illuminating your desk for focused work or providing ambient lighting for a more relaxed atmosphere.
8. Filing Cabinet
Organization can be tricky when you’re working from home and handling your own paperwork. To avoid a mad shuffle to find important documents, it’s best to have a good filing cabinet and filing system in place right from the start.
When selecting a filing cabinet, prioritize functionality, durability, and capacity. Look for a filing cabinet that provides you with plenty of space so you can file your documents accordingly. You may want to choose one like this that locks if you have young children around or will be storing any private information (such as passwords or billing information). Consider the size and depth of the drawers to ensure they can accommodate letter or legal-size documents, depending on your needs.|
If you’re limited on space, choose an under-desk filing cabinet to safeguard your confidential information.
For added convenience, explore filing cabinets with additional features such as casters for easy mobility, anti-tip mechanisms to prevent accidents, and label holders for quick and easy organization. Some cabinets also offer integrated rails or hanging file systems for seamless file organization and retrieval.
9. Network Router
If you’re going to work from home full-time, you need to have reliable internet access.
If there’s more than one computer in your home, or if you have other devices that require internet access like smart TVs, you’ll need to make sure you have a good network router in place.
This best-selling TP-Link Router works with Alexa for the ultimate home office experience. If you need high-speed wifi, be sure to pair it with a WiFi Range Extender to boost your signal.
10. Surge Protector
A surge protector is a great investment as well. This little tool will give you access to all the outlets you need—no matter where in the world you’re working from. It’ll also help to protect your computer and other pieces of office equipment from potentially damaging voltage spikes.
A surge protector offers essential protection against issues like voltage fluctuations. Power surges can occur unexpectedly if lightning strikes or if there is an electrical grid disturbance. This can pose a significant risk to your valuable electronics. By purchasing a surge protector, you can safeguard your computer, monitor, printer, and other office equipment from damage caused by sudden spikes in voltage.
Always look for a trusted and reputable brand with functionality and an extra-long cord if need be. Some surge protectors also offer built-in power switches or timers for convenient control over connected devices and energy-saving benefits.
11. Printer-Scanner Combo
Think of how much time you’ll save if you have a reliable printer and scanner readily available at your house. You won’t have to spend time driving around finding a place where you can print or scan documents and will have more time to focus on other projects.
Investing in a printer-scanner combo offers unparalleled convenience and versatility for your home office needs. With a single device capable of printing, scanning, and sometimes even faxing documents, you can streamline your workflow and tackle various tasks with ease. Whether you need to print out contracts, scan receipts, or make copies of important documents, a printer-scanner combo has you covered.
Look for a printer-scanner combo like this one that’s easy to use and is wireless so you don’t have to worry about locating the right card before using it.
Wireless connectivity allows you to print and scan from multiple devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets, without the need for cumbersome cables or complicated setups. Consider other factors such as print quality, print speed, and ink or toner costs when selecting a printer-scanner combo.
Choose a device that delivers crisp, clear HD prints if needed and fast printing or scanning speeds to keep up with your busy workload, like. Look for models with cost-effective ink or toner cartridges and energy-saving features to minimize ongoing operational expenses and environmental impact.
12. Desk Organizer
A cluttered workspace can lead to decreased productivity and increased stress levels. That’s where a desk organizer comes in handy. A desk organizer is an essential tool for keeping your workspace tidy and clutter-free, allowing you to focus on your tasks without the distraction of scattered papers and misplaced items.
There are various types of desk organizers available to suit your specific organizational needs and preferences. Desktop trays provide convenient storage for documents, folders, and notebooks, helping you keep important papers organized and easily accessible. Desk organizers with multiple compartments will allow you to organize everything from documents and books to office supplies, ensuring everything has its place.
When selecting a desk organizer, be sure to look for one with the right size, design, and functionality for your specific home office space. Choose options that fit comfortably on your desk without taking up too much space and complement your existing decor. Look for organizers made from durable materials such as plastic, metal, or wood, ensuring longevity and reliability.
13. Hard Drive
Protecting your important files and documents digitally is paramount these days. Whether you’re working on critical projects, storing sensitive information, or preserving memories, having a reliable backup solution is essential.
An external hard drive serves as a physical backup solution, providing an additional layer of protection for your data. These portable storage devices offer ample space to store large volumes of files, including documents, photos, videos, and more.
Backing up your data regularly is crucial for safeguarding against data loss due to hardware failure, theft, or accidental deletion. Establishing a regular backup routine ensures the integrity and accessibility of your files. Schedule automatic backups or set reminders to manually back up your data at regular intervals, ensuring that your most recent files are always protected.
When selecting an external hard drive, look for one with a large storage capacity, quick data transfer speeds, and durability. Having ample storage space will help accommodate all of your remote work needs for many years to come.
14. Noise-Canceling Headphones
In a busy home office environment, distractions are inevitable. Noise-canceling headphones are essential tools for blocking out external sounds, allowing you to focus on your work without interruption. These headphones actively reduce ambient noise, such as background chatter or household appliances, creating a more conducive environment for concentration and productivity.
When choosing noise-canceling headphones for your home office, opt for wireless options for added convenience and freedom of movement. Wireless headphones eliminate the hassle of tangled cords and enable you to move around your workspace with ease. Look for models with comfortable padding and ergonomic designs to ensure comfort during long periods of use.
If you prefer a more lightweight design, these Beats earbuds can help drown out outside noise as well. They can also stay hidden easily during a Zoom call, as opposed to larger padded versions.
Whichever headphones you choose, ensure the sound quality is top-notch. Choose headphones with superior audio reproduction for clear and immersive sound, whether you’re listening to music, participating in virtual meetings, or taking conference calls. Good sound quality enhances your overall listening experience and can help you stay even more productive—even if you have kids running around.
15. Ring Light
For remote workers, virtual communication is the lifeline that keeps teams connected and projects moving forward. However, not all home offices are equipped with optimal lighting, especially during evening or nighttime video calls (and let’s face it, lamps sometimes don’t cut it!). That’s where a ring light becomes an essential tool in your remote work arsenal.
A ring light is a circular LED light that provides uniform and diffused lighting, perfect for illuminating your face during video calls and Zoom meetings. This type of lighting helps minimize shadows and highlights your facial features, ensuring that you appear clear, professional, and well-lit on camera, regardless of the time of day.
One of the greatest benefits of a ring light for remote workers is its versatility and adjustability. Many ring lights offer adjustable brightness levels and color temperatures, allowing you to customize the lighting to match your preferences and the specific requirements of your video calls. Whether you prefer warm or cool lighting, you can easily fine-tune the settings to achieve the desired effect and create a flattering appearance on camera.
In addition to improving your on-screen appearance, a ring light also enhances the overall quality of your video calls. Providing consistent and flattering lighting ensures that your facial expressions are clearly visible and that you can engage effectively with colleagues and clients during meetings and discussions.
When selecting a ring light for your remote workspace, consider factors such as size, brightness, and mounting options. Choose a ring light that fits comfortably on your desk or workspace without cluttering your setup. Look for models with adjustable brightness levels to accommodate different lighting conditions and environments, and explore options with flexible mounting solutions such as desk clamps or tripods for added versatility.
You can also choose between a ring light with a cell phone holder or a small ring light that you can clip onto your laptop.
By incorporating a ring light into your remote work setup, you can elevate the quality of your video calls and ensure that you always present yourself in the best possible light, no matter the time of day. With its ability to provide consistent and flattering lighting, a ring light is an indispensable tool for remote workers who rely on virtual communication to collaborate with colleagues and clients from afar.
16. Planner or Agenda
In remote work, organization is key to staying on top of tasks and deadlines. A calendar or agenda serves as your trusty sidekick, helping you manage your time efficiently and keep track of important commitments.
Whether you prefer a traditional standing paper calendar or a physical agenda, having a designated space to record appointments, deadlines, and tasks is essential for staying organized. With a glance, you can see your schedule laid out, allowing you to plan your days effectively and avoid overcommitting yourself.
The flexibility and accessibility of a physical agenda or planner are especially beneficial for remote workers. With the ability to access your schedule on the go, you can stay organized whether you’re working from home, a coffee shop, or attending virtual meetings.
Choose a calendar or agenda that aligns with your workflow and preferences. It should also inspire you to want to use it. By incorporating this tool into your remote work routine, you can streamline your workflow, improve time management, and never miss an important deadline or appointment.
Invest in These Work from Home Essentials Today
From ergonomic chairs to noise-canceling headphones and everything in between, the array of work-from-home essentials available today offers solutions to common challenges faced by remote workers. Whether you’re seeking to enhance comfort during long hours at your desk or looking to optimize productivity in your home office, these items are designed to take your remote work career to the next level.
In the end, investing in these essentials isn’t just about upgrading your office space—it’s about investing in your own well-being and productivity. By addressing common pain points such as discomfort, distractions, and disorganization, you can create a workspace that supports focus, efficiency, and creativity.
Whether you’ve been struggling with the work-from-home life or you’re just getting started (or simply feel that your current setup could use a refresh!), now is the perfect time to take action. Consider adding these items to your home office setup either today or over time to reach your full potential as a remote worker.
Before you get out there and purchase all of these work-from-home setup essentials, be sure to explore our curated resources on Remoters! Whether you’re new to remote work or looking to level up your skills, our job board, guides, interviews, and more are here to support you. Discover remote job opportunities, learn essential tips, and access valuable tips to help you succeed in your remote career. Don’t miss out on the tools and knowledge you need to thrive. Check out Remoters today!
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