How to Build an Office Supply Cabinet That Works for Everyone
A well-organized office supply cabinet does more than hold pens and paper—it supports workflow, minimizes waste, and keeps your team running smoothly. Whether you’re managing a small office, coworking space, or remote-friendly team, creating a cabinet that serves everyone’s needs starts with intentional planning.
- Designate a central, accessible space
Your supply station should be easy to find, easy to access, and stocked with regularly used items. If your team is hybrid or remote, consider creating a digital supply list for remote staff to request items for home delivery. Use tools like Google Forms to streamline requests. - Organize by category, not item
Instead of placing everything in random bins, group supplies by function:
- Writing tools (pens, markers, pencils)
- Paper products (notebooks, printer paper, sticky notes)
- Mailing/shipping (envelopes, tape, labels)
- Tech accessories (cables, chargers, USB drives)
- Breakroom (coffee supplies, napkins, paper towels)
Labeling these zones clearly saves time and prevents duplicate purchases.
- Stock smart: Only keep what gets used
Avoid hoarding slow-moving items. Stick to essential, frequently used supplies. For example:
Use spreadsheets or free inventory tools like Sortly to track stock levels.
- Make supplies available to all departments
Designate one person per department to restock or report needs. That way, usage stays balanced and departments don’t hoard or overuse specific items. You can rotate this role quarterly for fairness. - Use visual restock cues
Place color-coded cards or sticky notes at the bottom of each bin or box. When the last layer of supplies is reached, the color cue prompts the person who used it to request a refill—avoiding last-minute supply runs. - Consider budget-friendly purchasing tools
To stretch your supply budget, shop during office sales events and use rewards programs. For added savings, platforms like Fluz let you earn cashback with a Staples gift card or save money on Office Depot supplies using digital gift cards that work instantly at checkout. - Do a monthly audit
Once a month, assign someone to check inventory, toss expired or damaged items, and note supply trends. Are certain pens running out quickly? Are folders going unused? Small changes can improve cost-efficiency over time.
A functional supply cabinet saves more than money—it saves time, reduces stress, and keeps your workspace flowing efficiently.
