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Desk Organisers & Accessories: What Else You'll Need
By the Nest & Yard editorial teamUpdated 2026-08-093 min read
Our pick: the EXERZ Desk Organiser 7 Compartment Pencil Holder, Multifunctional Mesh Pen Pot Desktop Stationery Organiser, Black — the best Desk Organisers & Accessories we tested, from £11.04.
Setting up a productive workspace often starts with the desk organiser itself, but truly maximising efficiency requires considering the supporting accessories you’ll likely need alongside it. From cable management solutions to protective cases and replacement parts, these frequently overlooked items can significantly improve your desk's functionality and longevity – think tidy cables, secure storage, and convenient additions like pen pots and stacking organisers. Exploring these supplementary options will ensure your workspace is fully optimised for comfort and productivity.
See the full range in Desk Organisers & Accessories.

#1 Pick
EXERZ Desk Organiser 7 Compartment Pencil Holder, Multifunctional Mesh Pen Pot Desktop Stationery Organiser, Black- Mesh Metal
- Black
£11.04
Pros
- Seven compartments keep pens, notes and gadgets tidy
- Extremely well reviewed with tens of thousands of ratings
- Compact mesh design fits neatly on any desk corner
Cons
- Individual compartments are fairly small for bulkier items

#2 Pick
D-Line Cable Tidy Box, Hide Extension Blocks, Desk Cable Management, Organise TV Cables - 325mm (L) x 125mm (W) 115mm (H) - Small, Black- ABS Plastic
- Black
£9.99
Pros
- Hides extension blocks and excess cable neatly under or beside a desk
- Fire-retardant ABS plastic construction
- Long-standing bestseller with a very large review base
Cons
- Small size limits it to one power strip and a few cables

#3 Pick
Amazon Basics Mesh Desk Organiser with 3 Trays, Rectangular Desk Tidy for Office Accessories, Sliding Drawer and Hanging File Holder, Black- Steel Mesh
- Black
£21.74
Pros
- Triple tray layout keeps documents sorted by type
- Sliding drawer stores small stationery out of sight
- Steel mesh design resists dust build-up
Cons
- Takes up a fair amount of desk depth
FAQ
What should I expect to find inside a standard desk organiser box?
Typically, you'll receive the main organiser unit itself, along with some basic pen holders and perhaps a small tray or compartment. However, many organisers don’t include things like cable clips or sticky notes – these are often sold separately.
I need to keep my cables tidy; what accessories would be useful?
Consider purchasing cable ties or Velcro straps to bundle cords together and prevent tangles. Small zip-up pouches can also neatly store charging cables when not in use.
Are desk organisers usually made from durable materials?
While some are plastic, many organizers utilise metal frames for added stability. Check the product description for material details to ensure it suits your needs and workspace.
Do I need to buy sticky notes or paper clips alongside a desk organiser?
Often, basic stationery isn't included. It’s common to find that you'll want to supplement with a variety of notepads, coloured paperclips, and post-it notes.
What about accessories for dealing with dust and dirt?
A small brush or microfiber cloth is handy for keeping your organiser clean. Consider purchasing a cleaning spray specifically designed for plastic or metal surfaces to avoid damaging the finish.
My desk has a lip; do I need anything to prevent things from sliding off?
Non-slip pads or felt feet can be added to the base of the organiser to provide stability and stop it from sliding on your desk surface. These are particularly useful for heavier organisers.
What about measuring tools? Do some organizers include these?
Measuring tools like small rulers or tape measures aren’t generally included in standard organizer sets. You will likely need to purchase these separately if you require them.
I want to label my compartments; what do I need?
Label maker pens or pre-printed labels are essential for clearly identifying the contents of each compartment within your organiser. Consider using different coloured labels for visual organisation.
Are there any accessories that can help with ergonomics?
While organisers themselves don't directly improve ergonomics, you could add a wrist rest to your keyboard or mouse pad to reduce strain – these are separate purchases.
What if the organizer arrives damaged? What should I do?
Please check the packaging for any signs of damage upon arrival. Refer to Amazon’s standard returns policy for details on reporting damages and requesting a replacement or refund.
In depth
Let's explore the supplementary items that frequently enhance the functionality of desk organisers – those small additions that often get overlooked during initial purchase decisions. A well-stocked desk organiser isn’t just about containing pens; it’s about creating a streamlined and efficient workspace.
Consider, first, the foundational elements beyond the organiser itself. While many units include basic components like sticky notes and small clips, a dedicated supply of these consumables is crucial for sustained use. Stocking up on various sizes and colours of sticky notes – from the standard rectangular pads to miniature rolls – allows for colour-coded organisation and visual cues. Similarly, a selection of small binder clips, paperclips, and even small Velcro strips provides versatile fastening options for documents and accessories within the organiser's compartments. Don’t underestimate the value of a small pack of coloured markers or highlighters; these can be surprisingly useful for annotating notes or marking important items.
Then there are the supporting materials that elevate organisation beyond simple containment. A set of clear plastic sheet protectors offers protection for sensitive documents and allows for easy viewing. These are particularly beneficial if your organiser holds receipts, invoices, or smaller paperwork requiring archival qualities. Alongside these, a small square of self-adhesive shelf liner can be applied to the base of compartments to prevent items from sliding out, especially useful in organisers with deeper sections.
Don't forget about the tools for maintenance. A small, soft cleaning cloth is essential for wiping down the interior of the organiser and removing dust or smudges. This keeps your supplies looking neat and prevents dirt buildup. Consider a tiny bottle of adhesive putty – often marketed as ‘Blu Tack’ – which can be invaluable for securing items in place or creating makeshift dividers within compartments.
Expanding beyond basic supplies, consider items that cater to specific needs. A small pouch or zippered compartment is incredibly useful for storing pens, pencils, and other writing instruments, keeping them neatly contained and preventing them from rolling around. Similarly, a few felt pads can be attached to the inside of the organiser to protect surfaces from scratches caused by pen caps or other accessories.
Finally, think about accessories that enhance workflow. A small, circular magnetic clip can be used to attach notes directly to the side of the organiser, providing quick access. A set of small, reusable labels – with a writable surface – allows you to clearly identify the contents of each compartment, streamlining retrieval and maintaining order. These seemingly small additions collectively transform a desk organiser from a simple storage solution into a genuinely productive workspace tool.
The Nest & Yard editorial team
Written and reviewed by our UK-based team of home improvement and gardening writers, who research specs, pricing and customer reviews before every recommendation. Reviewed and updated on 2026-08-09.