Tips and Tricks to Make Your Home Office More Comfortable

When the world suddenly shifted to remote working at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, many assumed it would be a short-term change and settled in for two weeks of work at the kitchen table. Now that we’re approaching the one-year mark, it’s well past time to convert your improvised “office” space into a more comfortable, long-term workspace. How to start?

• Invest in a good chair.

If you’re still using your dining chair as a desk chair, your body is probably begging for an upgrade. Look for a chair that offers both neck and lumbar support. If there isn’t space or budget for a new chair, look for seat cushions or lumbar pillows that provide ample support.

• Get a laptop/desktop stand.

Using a stand to bring your computer up to eye level will help improve your posture and eliminate aches and pains. Partner that with an ergonomic keyboard and mouse pad that provides support for your wrists, and you’ll notice your upper body relax as you work in a more natural position.

• Try a height-adjustable desk.

It can be uncomfortable sitting for hours at a time, and a standing desk is a great alternative that will help keep you moving throughout the day. For a more affordable option, look into standing desk risers that offer sturdy construction, easy up-and-down lifting, and a compact frame that will fit your monitor.

• Use quality office supplies.

You’ve made do with the old pens, paper, and notebooks you found at home for long enough – it’s time to get the office supplies that will make your workday easier. Choose new pens that won’t dry out after a few uses, enough note pads that you can take ample notes, and printer paper that is guaranteed to work on the first try. Boise^® X-9^® Multi-Use Copy paper is the perfect paper for everyday use, and with a 99.99% Jam-Free^® Guarantee you won’t have to worry about a paper jam ruining your day.

• Maximize lighting.

In an ideal situation, you would have big windows with a lot of natural light in your work space. For those without that natural light, consider adding a sun lamp that mimics natural outdoor light to your workspace. And if needed, add a bright tabletop lamp or ring light to your desk to provide adequate lighting for the video meetings that have become the norm.

Whether your workplace is a couch, desk, or kitchen table, we hope these tips and tools help make your space – and days – more comfortable.