The importance of maintaining your filing cabinet
A filing cabinet is an essential office item that helps keep your paperwork organized. It’s essential to keep it clean and in good condition to ensure it remains functional for several years. Here are some reasons why you should always maintain your filing cabinet:
- Prevents damage to vital documents
- Helps extend the lifespan of the cabinet
- Keeps the office looking professional and organized
- Makes accessing files easier
Clean your filing cabinet regularly
Regular cleaning of your filing cabinet not only helps keep it looking new and professional, but it also helps prevent damage and extend the lifespan of the cabinet. Here are steps to follow when cleaning your filing cabinet:
- Remove all files and folders from the cabinet
- Dust the exterior of the cabinet using a microfiber cloth
- Use a cleaning solution and a damp cloth to wipe down the cabinet’s exterior and interior
- Allow the cabinet to dry completely before returning the files
Oil the cabinet drawers
Oiling your filing cabinet drawers helps keep them functioning smoothly and prevents them from becoming stiff. It’s best to oil the drawers semi-annually or when necessary. Here are steps to follow when oiling your cabinet drawers:
- Remove all files and folders from the cabinet
- Remove the drawers from the cabinet
- Wipe down the drawer rollers with a clean cloth
- Apply a small amount of lubricant to the rollers and tracks
- Slide the drawers in and out to distribute the oil evenly
- Replace the drawers and files into the cabinet
Inspect and replace worn-out parts
Inspect your filing cabinet regularly for any signs of wear and tear. Replace any worn-out parts immediately to prevent further damage and maintain the functionality of the cabinet. Here are some parts to check:
- Locks and keys
- Drawer handles
- Drawer slides and rollers
Maintain the correct weight capacity
It’s essential to know and maintain the recommended weight capacity of your filing cabinet to prevent damage and increase its lifespan. Overloading your cabinet can cause drawers to stiffen and lock, leading to premature wear and tear. Here’s how you can maintain the correct weight capacity:
- Check the manufacturer’s recommended weight capacity before storing any files
- Distribute files evenly across all drawers
- Avoid overloading the cabinet with heavy items
- Remove unnecessary files to maintain optimum weight capacity
