Marie Kondo End of Workday Desk Reset
Inspired by Marie Kondo's workday routine, this 10 minute desk reset clears physical clutter, wipes down surfaces, and closes out the work day.
4 time blocks, 10 minutes in total.
Time blocks
- Paper and Document Triage: 3 min
File or recycle loose papers, receipts, and notes from today - Return Physical Tools to Homes: 3 min
Put pens, notebooks, and peripherals back into drawers or trays - Wipe Down the Desk Surface: 2 min
Clear off all items and wipe the surface with a soft cloth - Close Digital Workspaces: 2 min
Save open files, close browser tabs, and shut down your computer
About this routine
In her book Joy at Work, author and tidying expert Marie Kondo emphasizes that clearing your desk at the end of the day sets the foundation for focus tomorrow. Following Marie Kondo's workday routine practices prevents loose papers, stray coffee cups, and unfiled notes from accumulating into overwhelming morning clutter.
The end of workday desk reset takes 10 minutes and treats the workspace as an intentional environment rather than a dumping ground. By sorting paper, storing physical tools in designated spots, and wiping down the desk surface, you create a clean boundary between work hours and personal time.
Ending each day with a clean desk allows you to step away from work with a calm mind. Using a simple routine timer can help keep each step brisk so the reset remains an effortless daily habit.
Why this routine works
- Establishes a clean physical boundary between work and personal time
- Eliminates morning friction caused by yesterday's accumulated desk clutter
- Maintains organized drawers and surfaces using designated homes for items
FAQ
What is Marie Kondo's workday desk reset?
It is an end of day ritual described in Joy at Work where you clear loose papers, return tools to designated spots, wipe down your desk, and shut down digital files to mark the end of work.
How long does Marie Kondo's desk reset take?
The complete workspace reset takes 10 minutes at the end of your workday.
Why does Marie Kondo wipe down her desk at the end of the day?
Wiping the surface removes daily dust and expresses appreciation for the workspace while physically signaling that the workday is complete.
Sources
- Joy at Work: Organizing Your Professional Life, Marie Kondo & Scott Sonenshein
- How Marie Kondo Tidies Her Workspace, KonMari Blog
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Updated August 2026
Compiled from public sources and reviewed before publishing.