Spring is quickly approaching, so you know what that means. It’s time for some spring cleaning! Organization and tidiness are essential for a clear mind and increased productivity, so I cannot stress enough the importance of keeping a clean environment at work. Here are three ways to spring clean your workspace and routine:

Strive for inbox zero

A cluttered inbox = a cluttered mind. It’s important to stay on top of your emails to ensure nothing falls through the cracks. Utilize your filing system and flags to organize, label and prioritize your emails. Treat your inbox as a version of your to do’s by putting the quickest and most important tasks at the top of your list. Don’t need it? Delete it. Done with your task? File it away! Everyone should strive for inbox zero at the end of each day using these tips.

Keep your workflow organized

We continue to refine the processes and systems related to our workflow, which includes the use of online filing systems and programs. All of these tools are highly collaborative, so in order for them to be the most effective, everyone must do their part in keeping their areas up to date. Ensure you’re properly naming and saving documents, images, etc. in the appropriate shared files – none of these items should ever be left saved on your desktop! In terms of workflow and to do’s, ensure you and your team are on the same page by consistently sharing updates. Take some time throughout and at the end of each day to note the status on your current projects.

Sanitize your desk

Did you know that the average desk contains 400 times more germs than a toilet seat? Recent research reveals that more than two thirds of office workers are at risk of sickness due to dirty desks. Think about the items you touch most often that probably aren’t being cleaned enough, such as your keyboard, telephone and mouse. When was the last time you wiped them down? In the spirit of spring cleaning and keeping everyone healthy, it’s important to regularly sanitize high-traffic areas in the office such as your desk.

With collaboration and effort, we can all work together to keep a cleaner and more organized office.

Lauren Izaks is the COO and executive vice president of All Points Public Relations, a franchise-focused PR agency based in the Chicagoland area, www.allpointspr.com.