Working time is increasingly being encroached on by tasks traditionally completed at home, according to research from Office Angels.

The company found that a lack of time, commuting, and hectic workloads are the main reasons behind the trend.

It found that 72% of women horde a stash of make-up in their desk drawer, 65% keep a mini-wardrobe at work, and 22% do a regular office shop.

The research also found that 35% of employees use work time to keep in touch with friends and family, meanwhile 87% use the time to arrange personal appointments such as a haircut or booking an MOT.

Office Angels managing director Paul Jacobs said: “It’s essential employers get the balance right when it come to setting ground rules about the encroachment of home into the workplace.

“Too many home comforts can create a schizophrenic office, provoking tension amongst colleagues who prefer a more defined working environment.,” he said.