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If you’re reading this, it means you probably have style and class. White computer desk desks can brighten up your workspace. Over the next few paragraphs, we will prepare you on tips to purchase the right desk for you to keeping it clean and fresh.
Before we jump in, you might be scared that every smudge or coffee stain will show, but not so fast. With the knowledge you’re about to learn, it is super easy to keep your desktop clean and organized.
Why are White Desks becoming more Popular?
White decor is very in right now – Home Office Trends Magazine in 2023 found a 43% increase in white desk popularity since 2021 because of “clean, modern aesthetic” as the primary reason, but a big secondary one was that people feel that white decor made their workspace feel larger and brighter.
What are the Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a White Desk?
There’s a lot to consider when making a desk purchase in general because it is a larger purchase and is the centerpiece to your home office. Here are some helpful things to consider:
Material
Not all desks, and certainly not all white desks, are created equal. The material can make a big difference in durability, ease of cleaning, and overall appearance – consider:
- Laminate: Budget-friendly and easy to clean, but can chip over time.
- Painted Wood: Offers a classic look but may show wear more easily.
- Lacquered Wood: Provides a high-gloss finish that’s durable and easy to clean.
- Metal: Sleek and modern, resistant to stains but can show scratches.
In my experience (and trust me, I’ve been through a few desks), lacquered wood tends to hold up the best.
Finish
The question is matte or glossy and it is more than just an aesthetic choice. Interestingly, a 2022 study in the Journal of Ergonomics found that matte finishes reduced eye strain by 15% compared to high-gloss surfaces, especially in brightly lit rooms. However, glossy finishes tend to be easier to clean and maintain their white appearance longer.
Size and Shape
What kind of space are you working with? We are a big fan of a corner desk like an L shaped desk, which is great for corners, especially in a spare bedroom, while compact writing desks work well in small apartments. My husband, who’s 6’0″, learned the hard way that not all desks are created equal in terms of legroom. So if you’re on the taller side, make sure to check those dimensions!
Storage Options
Storage is so important for functionality – a study by Productivity in Home Offices found that workers with adequate desk storage reported 22% higher satisfaction with their workspace. Look for desks with built in storage like drawers, shelves, or consider pairing your desk with a matching white filing cabinet, which should be easy to find.
Weight Capacity
If you’re planning to load up your computer desk with multiple monitors, printers, etc., pay attention to weight capacity. The average weight capacity for a home office desk is around 150 pounds, but this can vary widely so always double check the Specifics section before purchasing.
Assembly Required
This is for sure a factor to your decision – how easy is it to assemble? For some this is no big deal, but for others it sure can be. A 2023 survey by Furniture Buyer’s Guide found that 35% of respondents regretted buying a desk that required complicated assembly. If you’re not handy with an Allen wrench, look for desks with minimal assembly required or factor in the cost of professional assembly.
Price vs. Quality
While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option but remember that a desk is an investment and a centerpiece of furniture you’ll likely be living with for a long time. If you want ample storage, you’re probably looking for a bit higher price point. A 2023 report by Consumer Furniture Insights found that buyers who spent at least $300 on their desk reported 40% higher satisfaction after two years compared to those who spent less than $150, so if you can, get a good one!
Maintaining Your White Desk: Tips for Long-Lasting Whiteness
Now, how do you keep it looking clean for years to come?
Regular cleaning is very important. Don’t wait for visible stains to clean your desk. A quick daily or weekly wipe down can prevent buildup of dirt and harder to see stains. Microfiber cloths are generally the best since they are gentle on surfaces and holds onto dirt.
If you’re good at doing this regularly, try to use softer cleaning products. Harsher ones can discolor and damage white desks. For laminate and lacquered surfaces, a solution of warm water and mild dish soap is all you need. For painted wood, try to find a specialized wood cleaner.
If you see a stain, make sure you wipe it immediately. We have young kids and we have found that leaving a simple container of wet wipes in a desk drawer is very handy for stains. For tougher stains, try using a mixture of baking soda and water.
Protect from direct sunlight as too much sun can cause white surfaces to yellow over time. If your desk is near a window, which is great for natural light, consider using UV-blocking window film or blinds. A 2022 long-term study by Furniture Preservation Institute found that white desks exposed to direct sunlight for 6+ hours daily showed visible yellowing 73% faster than those in low-light environments, so it’s definitely a good idea to protect your desk from direct sunlight, but you can still benefit from the natural light.
Using accessories like desk mats and coasters are a good idea to keep things off the actual desk surface and protect from scratches, spills, and just everyday wear and tear. You can make office supplies stylish too, and add some decorative items.
If you can remember, check your desk every few months. It doesn’t have to be too in depth, but a good once-over is a good idea. Specifically look for any chips, scratches, or areas of wear because catching these early can prevent bigger issues later. You can use a white furniture touch up marker for small scratches on laminate or lacquered desk surfaces
Styling Your White Desk to Make It Your Own
While white desks are great, you can take your style to the next level by adding something extra to the room, like:
- Some color – one or two accent colors in your table accessories and certainly background surroundings. A 2023 survey by Office Style Magazine found that blue and green were the most popular accent colors for white desks. For the latter, we strongly recommend adding some plants to the mix – see our article: Home Office Ideas: 10 Low Maintenance Plants
- Textures are a really neat addition to any home office, but will stand out well against a white desk as the base of the room. Try an accent chair, an industrial metal lamp, or a woven basket for storage to add some depth.
- Good lighting is crucial for any workspace, but it’s especially important with a white desk which will add extra brightness to the room. See our lighting guide: Home Office Lighting Ideas: Expert Tips & Best Practices. A well-placed desk lamp can highlight the clean lines of your desk and make your workspace feel even brighter. Plus, it’ll make you look great on those video calls!
Is White the Perfect Desk Right for You?
A white desk isn’t for everyone – which way are you leaning? If you love a clean, bright aesthetic and are willing to put in a little effort to maintain it, a white desk is likely an ideal choice for you.
Having a statement piece like this says a lot about you: “I’m organized, I’m stylish, and I’m not afraid of a little maintenance.” Yes, you can say all that without losing any functionality!
