Introduction
Ever feel like your workspace could run smoother, be cleaner, or just make more sense? That’s exactly what 5S is for. Originally developed in Japan, 5S is a simple, effective way to organize your workspace and keep things running efficiently. Whether you're managing a warehouse, office, or shop floor, this method can help you save time, reduce stress, and make everything more productive.
The 5S Steps
1. Sort (Seiri)
Start by getting rid of stuff you don’t need. If it’s not essential, it doesn’t belong in your work area. Less clutter means fewer distractions and more space to focus on what matters.
2. Set in Order (Seiton)
Now that you’ve cleared the clutter, organize what’s left. Everything should have a home, and you should be able to find it quickly. Think labeled shelves, tool holders, or shadow boards—whatever makes it easy to grab and go.
3. Shine (Seiso)
Give your workspace a regular clean-up. Not only does it look better, but it also helps prevent problems and keeps your equipment in good shape. Plus, a clean space just feels better to work in.
4. Standardize (Seiketsu)
Keep things consistent. Create routines, checklists, and visual guides so that cleaning and organizing become second nature—not a one-time effort.
5. Sustain (Shitsuke)
This is where the magic happens. Build habits, assign responsibilities, and make 5S a part of your culture. The goal is to keep it going, not just do it once and forget about it.
Why Use 5S?
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Get more done in less time
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Keep your team safe and focused
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Cut down on waste and downtime
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Create a workspace people enjoy working in
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Kickstart your lean or continuous improvement efforts
Start Your 5S Journey
At 5S.SHOP, we’ve got everything you need to put 5S into action—from floor marking tape and signs to complete shadow board setups.
This page is here for you and your team—bookmark it, share it, and come back anytime you need a quick refresher on how to keep things in order.