The last thing that comes in your mind while using any electronic device is taking care of the cables. Although it seems trivial, a messy wire can give you real pain by consuming your precious time untangling it. Apart from a disorganized appearance, tangled wires are the main reason for tripping and falling. According to statistics, in the U.S., tripping and falling account for the second-highest cause of workplace injuries. Besides, entangled cables are subject to severe damage resulting in short-circuiting and fire hazards.
So, if you are eager to organize your cables for a neat looking home and workplace and avoid all the related accidents and hazards, here are a few storage ideas that are relatively simple yet effective.
1. Hose Ties
A hose tie, also known as a cable tie, is a fastener that can hold electrical cords. If you want to get rid of messy wires quickly, this is all you need. One of the most cost-effective essentials, these ties can manage a bunch of cords trailing down your television or jumbled at your workstation. Best for extension cords, a cable tie can assemble even a 100-foot extension cord within no time. All you have to do is to roll it and put a hose tie. These ties are available in various colors, lengths, and materials, like plastic and metals, durable even for outdoor cables.
2. Paper Tubes
Toilet paper and paper towel rolls are yet another cheap alternative for storing cables. When done with the papers, bind the cords and tuck them into the cardboard roll. You can label these rolls to avoid confusion and place them in any convenient place, including a box or a drawer.
3. Shoe Organizers
Using an over-the-door shoe organizer is the easiest way to make the messy cords instantly out of sight. A hanging shoe rack allows you to place the cables and connectors without searching through boxes and bags that hold other items. Each pouch is an exact size for keeping any cord, small or big, and provides easy access whenever required. Available in various colors and styles, shoe organizers can always complement your home and office decor.
4. Velcro Cord Organizers
If you want to manage several wires at a time, a velcro fastener can organize and secure the bundle of cables. The popularity of these fasteners depends on its easy installation and removal. Velcros are incredibly affordable and robust enough to use multiple times. Velcro straps come in different colors and shapes to adjust any cable. It can secure extra long wires and allow their convenient access. These ties are safe enough to use for indoor and outdoor purposes. You can use it anytime at home, shed, garage, and office for all your organizing and storage needs.
5. Storage Case
When you carry the cables of your electronic devices like laptops, mobile phones, and others along, the storage case is perfect for you. These cases have specific spots for keeping large and small cords. You can find zippered pockets, compartments, and elastic slots that can adjust all sorts of wires. These cases are stylish and portable to carry and fit in any luggage, including your handbag.
6. Cable Management Box
When you want to hide all the power strips without compromising with the style, a cable box is the right choice. These boxes have a simplistic design and are durable and spacious to hold a vast range of electrical accessories at a time. These boxes have lids to conceal the cords inside, thus, protecting them against dust, dirt, kids, and pets. A few cable management boxes even provide ports for charging, making it a storage cum phone charging station. You can always find cable sleeves, clips, and other ties to hold the cords together, giving a neat look inside the box. The majority of cable boxes use plastic, but you can also find wooden ones that enhance your interior decor. While purchasing a cable box, keep in mind to look for proper ventilation to prevent overheating inside the box. For added safety, you can always go for fire-resistant materials.
7. Cable Management Trays
The main advantages of these trays are installation and space. You can mount it on the wall or under your table to hold cables, power supplies, and outlet strips. By adding additional units, you can get the desired length for managing all the cords in your workstation. The cable racks are usually made up of powdered-coated steel that provides a timeless look and requires minimal maintenance in the long run.
Conclusion
Storage and maintenance of cables are as vital as its correct installation. Apart from creating a visually pleasing environment, it helps to provide basic functionality, prevent air clogging, and provide comfortable access to cables and connected devices. The troubleshooting becomes hassle-free with organized cords, and it extends its life and performance. Next time you think of storing your cables, go through the above points to save efforts and money on cable management.
