Cable Management Mistakes: 9 Things That Make Your Desk Look Messy

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The 9 mistakes

  1. No plan for where the power strip goes.
  2. Using too-short cables that pull tight.
  3. Letting adapters dangle (Velcro them).
  4. Mixing data and power cables without labeling.
  5. No slack loop (so cables tug when you move stuff).
  6. Routing everything across the front of the desk.
  7. Not bundling by device (PC group, monitor group, audio group).
  8. Ignoring the wall (use clips along baseboards).
  9. Using zip ties everywhere (Velcro is easier to adjust).

Cheap fixes that work

  • Velcro straps + adhesive clips
  • Under-desk cable tray
  • Right-angle adapters for tight spaces

Start with our full guide: Cable Management Under $25: Clean Desk Setup.

Quick shop link: Cable trays on Amazon.