ID Badge Holders and Other Accessories

While ID badges have become the norm in many workplaces and schools countrywide, you don't have to let Big Brother win! There's not much you can do about the badges, but ID badge holders and accessories are another matter. Even if you can't jazz up your ID card itself, you can add a splash of style or color. One way to do this is with a specialized name badge holder -- that is, something to keep your personal plastic about your person where it's easy to get at. ID badge clips for clipping your badge to your pocket or collar are one tried-and-true way, but there's so much more.

Lanyards, straps, retractable reels and chains...

ID card holders don't have to cost much. A thin steel chain or a knit lanyard, with or without the company logo, shouldn't cost more than a few bucks. If you're going for straight utility, a clear plastic strap might serve you well. Whatever you choose, it's better than burying your ID card in a purse or wallet. You've got to be able to get to that card when it's time to go through a security door, and a nice lanyard or retractable reel is so much more efficient.

A clear favorite

Speaking of reels, or "badge pulleys" as some call them, few badge accessories are as handy or as popular. Why make do with a lanyard or strap, when one of these gizmos can be had for a likeable price? And why not make your co-workers jealous with your own snazzy retractable reel? All you have to do when you come to one of those magnetic security locks is pull out your card, swipe it, and it reels itself back up. Nifty, eh?