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It’s easy to remember to order pens, printer paper, and sticky notes—but what about the supplies that quietly boost efficiency and keep your team running smoothly? These underrated items may not top your usual list, but they’re often the difference between a chaotic office and a productive one. Here are 10 office supplies you didn’t know you needed—until now.

  1. Cable Management Clips
    Tangled cords waste time and look messy. Cable clips and sleeves help organize everything from chargers to ethernet cords and can be found for under $10 at Amazon or Best Buy.
  2. Whiteboard Cleaner and Markers
    Offices with whiteboards often forget to replace worn markers or invest in a proper cleaner. A clean board boosts team engagement during meetings and prevents ghosting marks from old ink.
  3. Battery Organizer
    If your team uses wireless devices or remotes, keeping an organized stash of batteries (and a tester) prevents downtime. Look for storage boxes on The Container Store or Walmart.
  4. Desktop Label Maker
    Labeling shelves, drawers, and supplies improves organization and reduces time spent searching for items. Compact models from Brother or DYMO are easy to use and available at Staples.
  5. Surge Protector with USB Ports
    Older power strips don’t cut it for today’s tech-heavy setups. Surge protectors with integrated USB ports free up outlets and prevent damage during power surges.
  6. Air Duster (Compressed Air)
    Dust buildup can damage keyboards, monitors, and tower fans. Keeping a few cans of compressed air in the supply closet helps maintain equipment and avoid costly repairs.
  7. First Aid Kit
    Not glamorous—but necessary. A basic office first aid kit ensures your team is prepared for cuts, scrapes, and minor injuries. Restock regularly with items like bandages, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes.
  8. Ergonomic Footrest
    An under-desk footrest improves circulation and posture—especially for workers seated for long periods. Budget-friendly options from brands like Mind Reader or Kensington are widely available.
  9. Bookends and File Dividers
    Without proper dividers, desks and shelves can become cluttered quickly. These tools make it easier to manage binders, manuals, and active documents.
  10. Desk Drawer Organizers
    Loose paper clips and stray pens slow down even the most focused professionals. Drawer trays and compartments keep the little things in place so they’re ready when you need them.

Final Tip:
You can earn cashback with a Staples gift card or buy a Target gift card with instant cashback to save even more when stocking up on these items—especially during promotional periods or back-to-school sales.