
Essential ID Card Accessories for Maximum Utility
ID card accessories enhance the value, utility, and security of cards by keeping them accessible, visible, durable, and protected. They can also add branding opportunities and visual elements to encourage employee engagement.
These ID card accessories are versatile and ideal for workplaces, events, and schools, ensuring that security and organization are maintained while enhancing brand visibility and personal identification.
Lanyards
Lanyards are straps worn around the neck or wrist to carry ID cards, keys and other small items. They can be customized with a variety of cord materials and attachment clips.
Lanyards are perhaps the most versatile promotional tool on the market, serving multiple purposes for a variety of industries and demographics. A standard lanyard features a hook with a plastic slip designed to hold an ID card or similar small item, such as a key. They’re used by retail employees, students, teachers, healthcare workers, event staff, and more.
The most obvious use of a lanyard is for ID badges and other items, which helps to streamline security measures and ensure that all participants are properly identified. In an increasingly dangerous world, it’s important to minimize the risk of accidental or deliberate tampering with any sensitive information. Lanyards are a simple yet effective way to prevent this type of behavior, making them an indispensable accessory for any business.
Other important uses for lanyards include displaying access cards to restricted areas, such as backstage passes at concerts or staff-only sections of hospitals. Color coded lanyards can help to quickly identify different types of personnel, which is particularly helpful during pandemic outbreaks.
Moreover, lanyards are great tools for keeping track of keys and other small items that might easily get lost in the chaos of a busy work environment. For example, Realtors often use custom lanyards to keep keys, lockbox codes and other materials together in one place when showing homes to potential clients.
School administrators also use lanyards to promote safety and accountability in the classroom. It’s easy to mistake one student for another without a name tag, so lanyards are an excellent way for them to distinguish themselves from other students while maintaining a high level of safety and security in the classroom.
Badge Reels
Badge reels provide a handy way to keep ID cards within reach at all times. They come in a variety of styles that meet different needs, including retractable and carabiner options. Some specialty reels also have added features, like LED lights or antimicrobial coatings. These add-ons can make the difference when employees need quick access to their ID cards in challenging environments.
For example, a swivel clip badge reel has a rotating clip that lets users attach the holder to their uniform in multiple ways. It can be worn around the neck or waist, allowing workers to check their schedules or punch the time clock without having to remove the badge holder from their uniform. This feature is especially useful for nurses and other healthcare professionals who need to move around patients or clients quickly.
Keeping IDs on display also boosts security by making it easy for security staff to check the identity of individuals and control access to restricted areas. This is important in hospital wards, high-security laboratories and other high-risk settings.
Badge reels are a great option for promoting a company or brand, as they can be personalized with logo printing or other graphics to help people identify themselves easily. For example, a nurse can have her name or job title printed on their badge to make it easier for colleagues to recognize them during events or meetings.
Holders
Holders protect ID cards from environmental elements and prying eyes, keeping them safe and accessible. They also shield cards from damage that could render them ineffective or unreadable.
Rigid plastic holders are durable solutions ideal for cards with internal technology. They resist bending and help prevent unauthorized access to your customers’ ID cards (a common form of identity theft called “skimming”).
A flexible vinyl holder is great for active industries like construction or warehouse work. It has a clear vinyl portion that holds an ID card and an elastic band that secures the holder to the wearer’s arm, making it easy for them to operate equipment without having to remove their badge.
For your customers who want to do their part for the environment, consider a recycled badge holder. These are made of PVC-free, eco-friendly EVA (Ethyl Vinyl Acetate) and contain fewer environmentally hazardous compositions than traditional PVC. They are standard-slot compatible and have chains and loop holes for attaching them to a lanyard or badge reel.
A zippered holder offers extra security by blocking out light and helping keep IDs securely in place. It’s a good choice for people who need to be able to see their cards clearly for security and compliance reasons, such as police officers and medical staff.
An RFID-blocking holder is another must-have for companies with an active security team or who use electronic ID badges at their facility. This type of holder is designed with a transparent face that’s easy to read, so your customers can swipe their RFID access cards without having to remove them from the holder. They’re also FIPS-approved, so your customers can be confident they’re protecting their personal information and government credentials.
Retractable Card Holders
A retractable card holder is a unique kind of lanyard that allows you to extend your badge when necessary. This type of holder is especially useful for people who need to swipe their ID cards frequently, such as in healthcare settings or security departments. It also provides convenience for people who carry several items, such as ID cards, keys, and mobile devices.
When choosing a retractable card holder, make sure to consider its quality and features before making a purchase. It should be able to protect your ID card from damage and provide maximum utility. It should also be durable enough to withstand the rigors of daily use and regular cleaning. Finally, it should be aesthetically pleasing and fit your personal style.
Retractable holders are available in a variety of sizes and designs, allowing you to find the perfect match for your needs. In addition, some are designed with a zippered closure, while others have a snap or snap flap. A few even have a built-in bottle opener or key ring.
The material of a holder is another important consideration. Hard plastic holders are durable and offer a high level of protection against scratches and other types of damage, making them ideal for industrial environments or any role where your ID card might be exposed to physical wear and tear. Soft plastic holders, on the other hand, are more flexible and lightweight, making them a better choice for office-based roles or educational settings.
Whether you’re in a retail job or an office setting, an ID card holder is an essential accessory for maintaining professionalism. By promoting your brand and increasing visibility, these accessories can help you build a solid reputation as a dedicated professional.