When I first started working from home, I searched high and low for lists of work-from-home essentials, hoping to find a list of amazing tools that would help me organize my space and stay productive.
Instead?
I found lists filled with things like:
- A blanket
- Your favorite coffee mug
- A candle
- A notepad and pen
…Seriously?
I don’t need a list to tell me to have a pen handy in my office or to grab a blanket if I get cold. That’s common sense, not an organizational or productivity tip.
What I really needed (and was looking for) was a list of work-from-home essentials that would actually help me stay focused, comfortable, and productive during long workdays at home.
So, after years of working remotely (and moving and rearranging my setup again and again), I’m sharing the things that truly make a difference. These are the practical, overlooked tools that I use every single day. Not just cute desk accessories, but real essentials for anyone building a sustainable, effective work-from-home routine.
Let’s get into it.
1. Extra Screens
Having a second (or third) monitor is a total game-changer (honestly, not just at home, but especially at home). It boosts productivity, helps you multitask more easily, and keeps your digital workspace organized.
I use two monitors plus my laptop as a third monitor, and I love being able to keep different projects on separate screens. Some people prefer one ultra-wide monitor, but personally, I’ve always loved multiple screens.
No matter what your preference is, if you haven’t upgraded to at least a second monitor, you need to. This is one work-from-home essential that’s worth the investment.
2. Ergonomic Wrist Pads: A Small Work-from-Home Essential with Big Impact
For whatever reason, I didn’t have wrist support when I first started working from home (and eventually my wrists suffered, lol).
A comfortable wrist pad for both your keyboard and mouse makes a huge difference over time. I use this set from Amazon, and it’s lasted years. I’ve replaced it once, a few years ago, with the same one, because it held up great the first time around, and it’s very comfortable.
3. An External Speaker
Whether you like ambient music or blasting your favorite tunes, a good speaker is key to creating a work vibe that keeps you motivated.
I used to use traditional speakers until one blew out; now I use an Echo Dot as a Bluetooth speaker, and I love it. It sits on my desk, connects to Spotify, and fills the room with music.
Work-from-home essential? For me, absolutely.
4. A Pack of Thumb Drives
It sounds random and weird, but trust me: there will be a moment when you need a USB drive and can’t find one.
Because this kept happening to me, I finally ordered a 5-pack from Amazon, and now I always have extras. If your job involves file transfers, presentations, or backups, thumb drives are a surprisingly practical work-from-home essential to keep around.
5. Stamps
Yes, stamps are a work-from-home essential!
Okay, maybe not for everyone, but if you run a small business, freelance, or handle admin tasks, stamps come in handy more often than you’d think.
Since working from home, I’ve started buying stamps in bulk just to avoid those last-minute trips to the post office. Keep a few sheets in your desk (you’ll be glad you did!).
6. A Mobile Pedestal for Storage and Seating
One of my favorite space-saving work-from-home essentials is my little 2-drawer metal mobile pedestal with a cushion on top.
It provides me with extra storage drawers and doubles as a seat when my husband pops into my office to chat for a few minutes. Plus, I can roll it around or tuck it away when I need to.
If you’re working with a small space, this is a great multi-functional addition to your office.
7. A Sit-Stand Desk or Desktop Riser
Not everyone wants to stand while they work (especially if you’re chasing a toddler the rest of the day like I am), but for some, a sit-stand unit can help reduce back pain and boost energy.
I’ve used both types for sit-stand desks: a fully adjustable unit and a desktop riser. They each have their perks.
Even if it’s not for everyone, a sit-stand desk is still one of those work-from-home essentials that can improve your workday if you find yourself getting stiff or restless at your desk.
8. A Power Strip with More Outlets Than You Think You Need
I never realized how many things I had to plug in until I started working from home. Between my monitors, laptop, speaker, phone charger, power bank, printer, and more, it adds up.
Unlike an office building, where wall outlets are typically everywhere, most rooms in a house only have a few outlets. So, I use a heavy-duty power strip with 8+ outlets (like this one from Belkin) to keep everything running smoothly.
If you’re setting up your home workspace, this is one work-from-home essential that’s easy to overlook but absolutely necessary.
9. A Chair Mat (Especially on Carpet!)
If your home office has plush carpet, rolling your office chair around is a nightmare without a mat.
In office buildings, carpet is usually low-pile and office chair-friendly. At home, it’s the opposite. A good chair mat helps your office chair glide easily, saves your carpet, and saves your back from weird strain.
I didn’t realize this was a work-from-home essential until I moved my office to the guest room (which has carpet). I probably won’t work without a mat now (even on a hardwood floor, since it helps protect the floors!).
10. A Motivational Quote Where You’ll See It
You don’t have to get fancy with this and get a beautiful picture that is framed to hang in your office.
Mine is printed on a piece of computer paper and taped to the back of my desk cabinet door. It’s been there for years. It’s the same piece of paper I hung up when I started my job after college. And it’s my favorite quote for work and life:
“A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.” — Franklin D. Roosevelt
It’s a quiet little reminder that hard days shape us. That when work (or life) is hard, you will come out better and more skilled because of it.
So, find a quote that speaks to you and put it somewhere you’ll see it. It might be the smallest work-from-home essential, but it’s one of the most powerful.
I hope this list of work-from-home essentials is helpful and allows you to build a workspace that’s practical, comfortable, and tailored to how you actually work.
Forget the fluffy lists with throw blankets and desk trinkets. These are the things that make real remote work smoother, more efficient, and more enjoyable.
Looking for more work-from-home tips? Check out my favorite productivity hacks here!
And, if you do need help picking a candle, blanket, or the perfect pen, let me know. I’ve got recs for those too!
Happy Working!
19 thoughts on “10 Actually Useful Work-from-Home Essentials”
I completely agree with the emphasis on a dedicated workspace! Having a quiet and comfortable space to work in is crucial for productivity and focus. I’ve found that working from a co-working space or a designated home office has been a game-changer for me. It’s great to see more people recognizing the importance of a good work environment for remote workers.
Definitely some great suggestions for working at home. I especially like the sit/stand desk. Thank you for sharing. 🤗
Pastor Natalie (Examine This Moment)
So helpful! I need to invest in a sit to stand desk! They have them in our office and I love them. I wish I had originally invested in one.
Sit stands are really nice and I think a lot of people don’t think about using them in their home office.
These are great ideas! And different from many I have seen! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Brandi! That was my goal for this list was to provide a list of things that I consider essential that I haven’t seen on many other lists myself. So glad you found it helpful!
I can’t imagine working without the extra monitors or sit stand desk!!! They are absolute game changers. Thanks for all of the other tips as well! 🙂
I feel the exact same way Naomi! When I travel and I’m down to just my laptop screen I feel so lost with my single monitor!
All of these items are must-haves! I definitely agree with you about having multiple monitors. It makes a huge difference!
It really does. Thanks so much for reading and commenting!
This is an inspiring list. I particularly love the file cabinet with the cushion! I never even considered extra seats – that could be really handy. Thanks for sharing!
Yes, it’s so handy to have an extra seat that mainly functions as storage. It’s just nice to have something if you need it that’s not a chair that will take up a lot of room! Thanks so much for reading!
Yes, get the big screens. I have 3 screens and couldn’t work without them.
This is such a great list! I Some of these things I never even thought of! Thank you so much for sharing!
So glad you liked it and found it useful!
Wow, Katie, you nailed it! I even travel with my extension cord now and after working from home for years I invested in a sit stand desk—total game changer!! And I have my inspirational quote, just like you. Great, useful list!
Thanks Jean! 🙂 Smart to travel with an extension cord! I’ll have to remember that too!
I love these! I just started working from home a few months ago and found that there aren’t many people who will ACTUALLY tell you what you need to make working from home more productive and comfortable. Thank you for this!
YES! I felt the exact same way when I started working from home. That’s what helped inspire this list! 🙂 I’m so so glad you found it useful!