If you're wondering what an ID badge holder is and if you need one, this article is for you. Today, businesses, schools, organizations, healthcare facilities, government agencies, and others consider a badge holder an essential accessory for their ID card programs. Here's why.
Benefits of ID badge holders
There are several reasons to require badge holders for your ID cards. First, a badge holder protects your cards from wear and tear like swiping through readers or from weather and the sun's UV rays. Employees who work outdoors or in a manufacturing facility need to protect their cards from dirt, dust, and other harmful environmental elements. Your cards will last longer when you protect them from common contaminants.
Next, a badge holder makes it easier for your cardholders to swipe their IDs through a card reader when accessing your building. Employees, students, staff, and others find it easier to wear their badges in a badge holder if they need frequent access to facilities or equipment or to clock in and out using their ID cards.
Finally, wearing ID cards in a badge holder makes it less likely that the cardholder will lose, damage, or misplace their ID. If you frequently reissue ID cards because of loss or damage, a badge holder can reduce this need, saving both time and money.
Types of ID badge holders
Here are a few of your options for securing your ID cards and protecting them.
- Retractable badge holder. This is the most common type of badge holder for employees or students who need to swipe often. A retractable badge holder secures the ID card and displays it while offering an easy-to-use retractable cord that attaches to clothing or a belt loop.
- Plastic ID card holder. Another common accessory, a plastic badge holder is a see-through case or container that makes it easy to display and see ID cards. This badge holder works well for employees, students, and others who need to display their cards for identification purposes without the need to swipe.
- Lanyards. A lanyard is perfect for cardholders who wear their IDs around their neck to display. It's common for teachers, medical staff, manufacturing employees, and others to use a break-away lanyard. When caught or tugged, a break-away lanyard separates so the wearer doesn't get choked.
- Magnetic clip. For those who don't need to swipe their ID cards, a magnetic clip is a brilliant choice. A magnet is secured to the back of an ID card with adhesive and the other metal component is worn on the inside of a lapel, collar, pocket or inside a shirt. These holders protect clothing from being damaged by pin-hole attachments.
- Pocket badge holder. Pocket holders use small, simple clips to attach easily to belts, lapels, or pockets without damaging clothes. If your ID card program is on a tight budget, these are one of the lowest cost badge accessories.
- Arm band. Another great option for employees who move around a lot or work in outdoor conditions is an arm band badge holder. Made of strong, clear vinyl, an arm band protects cards from weather, dust, dirt, debris, and more. Cardholders can still slide their ID cards out of the arm band if they need to swipe through card readers or clock in and out.
Considerations for ID badge holders
When deciding which ID badge holder would work best for your cardholders and your business needs, consider the following options.
- Horizontal or vertical. Most ID badge holders come in either vertical or horizontal orientation. Before purchasing ID badge accessories, determine which way your cards are best displayed and used. Does a portrait or vertical card make more sense, or would a landscape or horizontal format work better?
- Standard or reinforced. Both the standard and reinforced ID badge holders allow your employees, students, and others to easily remove their ID cards while displaying them securely. A reinforced badge holder, however, is made with hard, clear plastic to protect both sides of the card. If your cards need extra protection from the elements or contaminants, a reinforced ID badge holder extends your cards' life.
Final thoughts
You'll find lanyards, arm bands, retractable reels, magnetic clips, and more at Idesco. We carry several badge accessories and holders to meet all your needs. You can see our full catalog of options here.
If you're unsure which ID badge holder would work best for your business and security needs, our ID Experts can help. Call us at 1-800-336-1383 and an Idesco ID Expert can walk you through your options and help you determine your best solution. Or stop by our convenient showroom to see the badge holders in person before making your decision. Take advantage of Idesco's 75+ years of experience and our best price guarantee to get exactly what you need.