A clutter-free workspace starts with organization—and labeling is one of the simplest, most effective ways to maintain order. Whether you’re managing office supplies in a shared cabinet or keeping track of materials at your desk, a clear labeling system makes everything easier to find, use, and restock. Here’s how to build a practical, low-cost labeling setup for your home office or small business.

Start by Categorizing Your Supplies
Group similar items together before you even think about labels. For example:

• Writing tools 
• Printer supplies 
• Mailing and shipping materials 
• Paper products 
• Cleaning and breakroom items
  Once grouped, it’s easier to assign logical labels and storage areas. 

Use Consistent Label Formats
Whether you’re using handwritten sticky labels, pre-printed sheets, or a label maker, consistency is key. Stick to one font style or color scheme so your system is easy on the eyes and simple to scan quickly.

Best Labeling Tools to Use:

• Label Makers: Portable, user-friendly, and great for drawers, bins, and folders. Brother P-Touch is a reliable and affordable model. 
• Printable Sticker Sheets: Ideal for bulk labeling or creating color-coded systems. You can find Avery Labels compatible with free templates. 
• Chalkboard or Dry-Erase Labels: Reusable and perfect for bins or changing categories frequently. Available at Amazon or Walmart. 

Color-Coding for Quick Recognition
Assign colors to supply categories to speed up identification. For example, use blue for printer-related items, red for mailing, green for cleaning supplies. Combine color and label text for maximum clarity.

Label Both Containers and Shelves
Don’t just label the bin—label the spot where it belongs. This is especially useful for shared spaces or high-traffic supply closets. It helps everyone return items to the right location, reducing clutter over time.

Digital Labeling for Shared Inventories
If you manage office supplies digitally, pair your physical labels with inventory tracking in a spreadsheet or free software like Sortly or Airtable. Use QR codes or item numbers that match your storage labels to streamline tracking and restocking.

Keep It Simple, Scalable, and Visible
The best labeling systems are intuitive and easy to update. Avoid overly specific categories (e.g., “medium-point blue pens with grips”) that might create confusion or limit flexibility. Instead, go with broad but relevant names like “Pens & Markers” or “Shipping Supplies.”

With a solid labeling system, you’ll save time finding what you need, reduce duplicate orders, and keep your office environment running efficiently—no micromanaging required.