Step 1: Audit Your Cables
Unplug everything. Count your cables. The average desk setup has 6–10 cables: monitor power, monitor video, laptop charger, keyboard, mouse, webcam, phone charger, desk lamp, speaker/headphone. A USB-C dock can reduce this to 3–4.
Step 2: Under-Desk Cable Tray
Mount a cable management tray under your desk. This holds your power strip and bundles of excess cable length out of sight. The IKEA Signum ($10) is the most popular option. Screw-mount trays are more secure than adhesive.
Step 3: Route Individual Cables
Use adhesive cable clips along the back edge of your desk to route individual cables from your devices down to the tray. Group cables that run the same direction together.
Step 4: Velcro Ties
Bundle excess cable length with velcro ties (not zip ties — velcro is reusable and adjustable). Wrap excess length in loops and secure near the cable tray.
Standing Desk Cable Management
For standing desks, you need extra cable slack to accommodate height changes. A cable spine (vertical cable guide) connects from the desk to the floor, keeping cables organized during transitions. Leave 6–8 inches of extra slack at each connection point.