How to Hide Unsightly Computer Wires

Just a few computer cords can make a real mess under your desk.

Between the wires for the printer, external hard drive, modem, monitor and computer, many home offices wind up with an unsightly tangle of wires snaking along the floor, waiting to trip the unwary. Home office stores sell all sorts of cable organizers, cable covers, partitions, cup hooks and other hardware in a wide range of prices, but you really don't have to spend a lot to accomplish this task. All you need to get rid of the tangle of cords is a few, simple inexpensive items you can find at any hardware store.

Things You'll Need

• Surge protector
• Dust cloth
• Twist ties
• Electrical tape

Instructions

1. Get a surge protector. Some look like a bar of outlets, with one cord that connects to the wall, while others look like a flat rectangle with outlets along one edge. Select one that can be hung on the wall behind the desk or secured to the underside of the desk with double-sided adhesive strips that come with the unit.

2. Secure the surge protector by hanging it from a nail on the wall behind your desk, or sticking it on the underside of the desk, out of the way of your knees. Place it so the cord from the surge protector can easily reach the wall outlet.

3. Turn off the computer and unplug all peripherals from the wall or extension cords. Untangle all the cords until they hang straight, without knots or twists. Take advantage of the moment and clean off cords and plugs with a soft cloth to get rid of dust, dirt and pet hair.

4. Bundle each cord to take up the excess and secure with electrical tape or twist ties, leaving enough slack so that each cord can reach the surge protector.

5. Plug the computer and peripherals into the plugs on the surge protector. Plug the surge protector into the wall outlet.

Tips & Warnings

• Another quick way to hide cords is to screen them. Buy a length of fabric and cut it to fit the back of your desk. Tack it to the back of the desk with tacks and a tack hammer. Run the cords behind the cloth to the surge protector.

• Always unplug electronics before working on cords to avoid injury to yourself or components.

References

• Design Dilemma: Hiding Electrical Cord Clutter
• Desktopped: 5 Easy Ways to Keep Computer Cables Organized
• Funny About Money: Hide Cords with No Special Gadgets

Resources

• HGTV: Quick Tips for Home Office Organization
• Online Organizing: Organize Your Home Office Day