A related hack if you don't want to put your phone behind your laptop - put the phone screen-side down. This way the changing states of the screen (when you get a notification) won't distract you.
I guess it depends on if you have (and are used to having) you phone make a noise when you receive notifications. I have most notifications set to silent, and some I let vibrate. The only thing that makes a sound is my alarm and calls.
Since smart phones became a thing I've always had them set to vibrate, I don't really see why you need your phone to make a sound (and disturb other people) when you get such things as an Instagram like or a game wanting you to play more. Biggest quality of life improvement was disabling vibrate (so it's silent) for instant messages and SMS (which my phone always notifies me twice about?) - they can wait a few minutes to hours and don't need instant replies.
Phone in the pocket (silent) works well for me. At home, I just put it on charge somewhere and mostly forget about it. However, a side effect of it is, In my social circle, I am the guy who doesn't respond on time. I miss phone calls all the time. But since I do it consistently, everyone knows nowadays. :)
Out of sight, out of mind (and you can't feel it in your pocket either!)