Storage · Accessories & Add-ons
Office Storage: What Else You'll Need
By the Nest & Yard editorial teamUpdated 2026-08-092 min read
Our pick: the VASAGLE 2-Drawer Filing Cabinet, Mobile File Cabinet for Home Office, Printer Stand, White — the best Office Storage we tested, from £49.99.
Setting up a productive home office often starts with the right storage solution, but it’s easy to overlook the essential extras that truly complete the space. Alongside filing cabinets and desk organisers, you'll want to consider accessories like cable management solutions, protective cases for delicate items, and potentially replacement parts – these are frequently needed additions that significantly improve functionality and longevity. This guide explores commonly required accessories for office storage products, helping you ensure a fully optimised and organised workspace.
See the full range in Office Storage.
#1 Pick
VASAGLE 2-Drawer Filing Cabinet, Mobile File Cabinet for Home Office, Printer Stand, White- Steel
£49.99
Pros
- Doubles as a printer stand with a flat, stable top surface
- 360-degree swivel castors make it easy to roll under a desk
- Adjustable hanging rails fit A4 and letter-size folders
Cons
- Steel frame is fully assembled bar the castors, so it is heavy to move upstairs
#2 Pick
Pierre Henry 95147 Filing Cabinet with 2 Drawers, Grey- Steel
£84.95
Pros
- One of the best-selling A4 filing cabinets on Amazon UK
- Smooth glide steel drawer runners for daily use
- Supplied with two sets of keys for secure locking
Cons
- Gloss paint finish can show scuffs over time
#3 Pick
OSCO Graphite Wiremesh Desk Organiser with Drawer, 7 Compartments, Desk Tidy & Pen Holder- Metal
Currently unavailable
Pros
- Seven open compartments plus a drawer for loose stationery
- Rubber base pads protect desks from scratches
- High-density metal mesh keeps its shape under daily use
Cons
- Graphite finish shows dust more than the black version
#4 Pick
SONGMICS Mobile File Cabinet, Lockable, with 3 Drawers, for Office, Home Office, Black OFC63BK- Steel
- Black
Currently unavailable
Pros
- Lockable drawers keep paperwork private in shared offices
- Rolls on 4 castors, 2 with brakes, for easy repositioning
- Pre-assembled, so it is ready to use out of the box
Cons
- Fairly heavy to lift once loaded, so plan its final position first
FAQ
I've just bought some shelving units – what kind of fixings will I need?
Check the box contents carefully; most shelving comes with screws and wall plugs. However, you’ll likely require a larger quantity than initially included, particularly if mounting into plasterboard or brickwork, so it’s wise to have a small selection of different screw types on hand.
My desk organiser came without any adhesive pads – are these essential?
Adhesive pads are crucial for securing lighter items like sticky notes and paperclips within the organiser's compartments. Without them, they'll simply slide around; consider purchasing a pack of self-adhesive felt pads.
I’m adding magazine racks to my storage – do I need to fix them to the wall?
While freestanding magazine racks are possible, fixing them to the wall provides stability and prevents tipping. Use appropriate fixings for your wall type – consider a small picture rail system for easy adjustment.
What about cable management solutions? Do these usually come with anything?
Cable clips and ties often aren’t included in standard storage boxes, so anticipate needing to purchase some separately to prevent tangled wires and maintain a tidy workspace.
I've got some drawers – do I need drawer liners?
Drawer liners protect the surfaces of your drawers from scratches and spills. They also provide a barrier against dust and debris, making cleaning easier.
What about labels? Do storage systems often include these?
Typically, labelling supplies are not included – you'll need to purchase self-adhesive label sheets and pens to organise your contents effectively.
I’ve bought some filing cabinets; do they require a baseboard?
Some smaller filing cabinets don't include a baseboard for protection of the floor, so consider purchasing one if you have hard flooring or are worried about scratches.
Are desk lamps usually included with storage solutions?
No, desk lamps are almost always sold separately. You’ll need to factor in the cost and power source when planning your workspace lighting.
I've purchased some boxes for storing items – do I need bubble wrap?
Bubble wrap is essential for protecting delicate items during transport and storage within your new boxes, particularly if you're stacking them. It’s a relatively inexpensive investment that prevents damage.
What about desk organisers with pen holders? Are these standard?
Pen holders are frequently optional extras; many organisers simply have open compartments. Ensure the organiser has suitable holders for your stationery needs if this is important to you.
In depth
Office storage solutions often require more than just the unit itself to function effectively and comfortably. Consider, for instance, the range of accessories that can enhance its utility and ensure it meets your specific needs.
The first area to consider is organisation within the storage unit itself. This typically involves a selection of dividers – these come in various materials from sturdy cardboard to more robust plastic or even metal wire mesh options, all designed to create defined compartments for clothing, paperwork or smaller items. Think about how you intend to use the space; are you primarily storing garments requiring hanging space? Or is it predominantly for documents and files needing filing systems?
Alongside this, consider the types of storage solutions that will fit *within* those divisions. This could include a range of shelving units – adjustable shelves are incredibly valuable offering flexibility in terms of depth and height to accommodate different sized items. Consider too the addition of drawer units or small storage boxes for smaller accessories like stationery or toiletries. These don’t need to be integrated into the main unit, but will greatly help with organisation within.
Next, think about accessibility. A good quality office storage unit should offer convenient access to its contents. This might involve padded rollers or castors – these allow the unit to be moved easily around a room, and are particularly useful for heavier items. Alternatively, consider drawer slides which provide smooth operation and prevent sagging when drawers are opened frequently.
Don’t overlook the practicalities of maintenance and protection. A fitted dust sheet – ideally made from a breathable material like cotton – will protect the storage unit's finish from dust and grime, prolonging its appearance. Protective felt pads for the base can safeguard your flooring from scratches or damage when moving the unit.
Finally, consider accessories that enhance comfort and usability. Cable management clips or ties can be extremely useful if you’re using the storage unit to house a computer or other electronic devices, preventing tangled wires and maintaining a tidy workspace. Soft furnishings like a small rug or footrest can improve ergonomics and create a more comfortable environment.
Remember to factor in these additional elements when assessing your overall office storage needs – they represent an essential investment in functionality and longevity alongside the core unit itself.
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.