With a new year just around the corner, I’ve decided it’s time to create my dream study desk setup. As a student and a busy mum, my desk has always been a functional (but messy) space. This year, I’m planning to build a workspace that keeps me organised, motivated, and inspired—without breaking the bank. Here’s my wish list of affordable desk essentials I’ll be adding to my setup in 2025.
Disclaimer: Some links on this site are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting my blog!
Organisational Tools
1. Desk Organiser
A sleek, minimalist organiser with compartments for pens, sticky notes, and even a slot for your phone. This one is perfect for decluttering your workspace and keeping essentials within reach.
This one is super minimal but has a few drawers for all your odd little things which don’t belong strewn everywhere!
➔ Check Price on Amazon
2. Cable Clips
Tired of tangled wires? These silicone cable clips stick to the edge of your desk, holding your chargers and cords in place. Affordable and easy to use!
I think these are just so handy the way they can stick to a surface, my laptop charger always races to the ground whenever I unplug it!
➔ Shop Now
3. Document Trays
Perfect for stacking papers, notebooks, and other items that tend to pile up on your desk. These trays make it easy to stay organised and find what you need quickly.
This one is a little pricey for what it is.. and I could definitely find cheaper if I just went to a stationary store, but I just love the way it looks! It has a couple of compartments at the top and comes in a few different colour choices.
➔ Find It Here
Productivity Must-Haves
4. Desk Mat
A durable, soft desk mat in pastel colours that protects your desk and creates a cosy, organised vibe. Ideal for writing or using a mouse.
This also comes in a few colour choices, and I like that it’s big enough to set my coffee down next to me. I can’t study without a nice coffee next to me!
➔ Check It Out
5. Sticky Notes and Tabs
Stay on top of tasks with these pastel sticky notes and index tabs. They’re perfect for reminders, bookmarks, or marking pages in textbooks.
I cannot get over these cute animal sticky notes, so much fun to make a boring study session a little less dreary.
➔ Grab Them Here
6. Digital Timer
A small, portable timer that’s perfect for practising the Pomodoro technique and staying focused during study sessions.
Now this one is so not necessary, a true minimalist would have a timer on their phone. However, I love the idea of just tipping this on it’s side to start my time without the risk of scrolling TikTok for 6 hours!
➔ Shop Now
Decor and Inspiration
7. Mini Artificial Succulent
Add a touch of greenery to your workspace with a small artificial succulent. It’s low-maintenance and perfect for brightening up your desk.
I prefer fake ones for areas my kids can reach, nobody likes picking gummy leaves out of a toddlers mouth or cleaning up dirt rubbed into a carpet. These ones are super minimal and very sweet looking.
➔ Check Price
8. Desk Lamp
A compact LED desk lamp with adjustable brightness. Perfect for late-night study sessions and reducing eye strain.
I like this one, because it’s bendy you can angle it so that you don’t blind yourself. On top of that, it’s got loads of light settings and even a timer option so you can happily fall asleep at the desk, like the hard worker you are.
➔ Shop It Here
Desk Supplies
9. Spiral Grid Notebook
A versatile grid notebook that’s perfect for jotting down ideas, planning your day, or working through study problems.
There’s not much to say about this product, it’s a sturdy little notebook with a beautiful hard cover to protect your work.
➔ Check Price on Amazon
10. Pastel Highlighters
These highlighters make colour-coding your notes easy and fun, while adding a pop of style to your desk.
When I was looking for which highlighters I wanted, most of the options came with about 20 pens! For me that’s too much, I only want a few but I still want a little variety. This pack has only 6 so they won’t be a pain for me to store.
➔ Grab a Set
11. Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during long study sessions with a stylish and lightweight water bottle.
Now this item I really cannot justify the price for. I just absolutely ADORE Ninja products, ever since I got my first item (a multi-cooker!) I am hooked on this brand. It also satisfies the absolute most important factor – it is dishwasher safe!
➔ Shop Now
Final Thoughts
Building the ultimate study desk doesn’t require expensive furniture or a complete makeover. Small, thoughtful additions like cable organisers, sticky notes, and a motivational print can make a big difference. I’ll be gradually adding these items to my workspace in the new year and sharing my progress along the way.
What’s on your desk wishlist? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your ideas!
