Cubicle health is an important, albeit less than exciting topic. Still, maintaining a healthy work environment can not only keep you safe but also free up your creative mind simply through the lack of clutter.

Despite being the most popular type of employee workspace in the corporate world, the cubicle isn’t seen as the ideal type of office. In fact, it’s quite common for people to fear the drab walls, but a cubicle presents a unique opportunity to express yourself. Even though there are plenty of interesting ways to personalize your cubicle space, once you’re done making your mark, you should think about how to keep it clean.

Cubicle Health: Dust And Allergies

The vast majority of cubicles in the continental United States are covered in some type of fabric. Since the fabric is porous, it becomes obvious that it will collect dust over time. If you are the type of person who suffers from seasonal allergies, this won’t make your life easier. All of that dust collecting on the walls can be rough on your sinuses.

Don’t be shy, be that person who vacuums the walls. Some employers have small vacuums for quick clean-ups, or you can bring a hand vac from home, but vacuuming once every few weeks will help give you relief in between official cleanings. So make sure you keep your cubicle walls free of dust!

Surfaces Collect Germs

You don’t have to be a germophobe to realize that one of the filthiest places is your work desk. Just think of all the things you come into contact with on your desk every day. You touch your keyboard, mouse, desktop surface, your desk phone, your keys, etc.

What about the objects or surfaces your coworkers touch? Whether you’re using pre-owned cubicles or brand new ones, germs and grime build up. It’s just the way life is. However, you can do something about it. You can clean it. Take time every other day (or every day if you’re so inclined) to wipe off solid surfaces with sanitary wipes.

Cubicle Walls Collect Stains

This doesn’t sound common, but you’d be surprised. How many times have you accidentally opened a bottle of soda and it sprayed everywhere? Got a little aggressive talking with your hands while holding a cup of coffee? Those unattractive spills are displayed on the walls for all to see your shame. Luckily, removing those stains isn’t as difficult as it seems and only requires a rag, some soap, and a little elbow grease.

So there you have it! While most people see cubicles as the most boring and least customizable types of workspaces out there, the truth of the matter is quite different. Cubicles can be very easy to customize, making it extremely easy for you to leave your own mark. However, they also require some extra work in order to keep them germ-free and maintain a healthy work environment.

Besides the official cleanups, it is important to take care of your cubicle health by yourself. Keeping it clean will not only keep you healthier, but happier as well. Clean, organized spaces can encourage productivity and focus, which in turn, helps you succeed in the workplace.