Guide to the Best Nurse Badge Reel
Having quick access to your ID, keys, or swipe cards is essential for getting through a busy shift efficiently. Badge reels are a handy, everyday accessory for healthcare professionals. They help you adhere to dress code requirements, keep your important items within reach, and add a touch of personal style to your scrubs.
Wondering what makes a great nurse badge reel? This guide will break down the essentials, including features, types, and our top picks to help you find one that suits your needs.
What Are Badge Reels For?
Whether you’re swiping into a locked door, scanning your ID, or accessing equipment, you need quick access to your credentials. Badge reels keep everything secure and retractable, so you don’t have to clip and unclip your ID every time you need it. Plus, they can add a fun touch to your nursing scrubs.
Badge reels are small but mighty tools, saving you time during patient care and preventing the hassle of constantly digging through your pockets for your ID. They’re also essential for complying with hospital security measures that require visible identification at all times. Nurses aren’t the only ones who might need a badge reel — nurse practitioners, nurse aides, support staff, and other clinicians wear them as well.
What to Look for in a Nurse Badge Reel
When shopping for badge reels for nurses, functionality is key. All nursing accessories, like nurse bags and stethoscopes, have to be made of sturdy materials that can withstand the wear and tear of long shifts. Here are the main features to keep in mind:
Strong Retraction Mechanism
A high-quality retractable reel ensures you can smoothly pull your badge out and it’ll zip right back in without wearing out or hanging down. Badge attachments can get heavy — you may want to add markers, pens, award pins, and more. Look for badge reels with a sturdy cord, typically made of nylon or steel, that can hold all your IDs and nurse badge reel accessories.
Clip Type
There are different types of clips that secure the badge reel to your scrubs or lanyard. Belt clips are popular for their security, while swivel clips offer more flexibility, letting you pull your badge from multiple angles. Alligator clips are similar to belt clips, but have a claw rather than a sliding mechanism. Some badge reels come with carabiner clips for extra durability and attachments.
Personalization and Style
One fun way to inject some personality into your nursing workwear is to choose a unique nurse badge reel. Personalized reels can show off your favorite hobbies, emphasize your specialty, or be a conversation starter with patients. On the other hand, if you just want a simple design with no frills, that’s okay too.
Durability
Since badge reels are pulled on constantly, you want one that’s made from materials that can last. Low-quality reels may loosen quickly, causing your badge to hang down and get in the way. If the clip isn’t strong enough, the reel may fall off. Look for sturdy plastic or metal housing and a strong clip attachment.
Caring for Your Badge Reel
Taking care of your badge reel ensures it lasts longer and works properly. Avoid yanking too hard on the retractable cord, and make sure it’s not exposed to water or harsh chemicals. Cleaning the surface of your badge reel regularly will also keep it looking fresh.
10 Nurse Badge Reels to Check Out
Here are a few of our favorite badge reels for nurses. (Prices were accurate at time of publishing.)
1. BadgeBright Badge Clip Holder
If you work nights, this flashlight badge reel can help light up your next shift. It’s perfect for when your patient is asleep and you don’t want to turn on the light in their room. Plus, it comes in white, rainbow, and black colorways.
Price: $11.99
2. Dimeho Cardiac Graphic Badge Reel
If you’re a cardiac nurse or cardiovascular ICU nurse, this heart badge reel could be the perfect accessory for your next shift. It comes in six different colors and features an illustration of the heart and major cardiac arteries.
Price: $5.85
3. DIY Nurse Badge Reel
Want a personalized option for yourself or your whole unit? Learning how to make nurse badge reels is pretty simple, and you can purchase do-it-yourself badge reel kits to make gathering supplies easy.
Price: $2.39+
4. Hitluste Silly Goose Badge Reel
Want to show a sense of humor with your nurse badge reel? Funny options like this silly goose badge reel could bring playfulness to your next shift. And if you’re looking for holiday-themed options, they come in several different designs and colors.
Price: $12.99
5. Jessica Ku Design Specialty Badge Reels
If you’re looking for more specific options for your specialty, check out Jessica Ku designs. They have adorable badge holders in a variety of styles, colors, and specialties. Plus, your purchase can support a small business.
Price: ~$12.10
6. Prestige Deluxe Yellow Duck ID Holder
Looking for something that’s appropriate for working with children? If you work with pediatric patients, this yellow duck badge reel could help bring some levity to your shift.
Price: $8.99
7. PrettyPetalsCanada Personalized Flower Badge Reel
These real flower acrylic badge reels bring color and personality to your nursing uniform. You can have them inscribed with your name, pick the flower, and choose the clip style to meet your needs.
Price: $8.50
8. Sixrip I’m Counting Badge Reel
If you’re a scrub nurse, this OR badge holder could be perfect for you. It features a rotating alligator clip, so you can scan into the locker room or the glucose monitor with style.
Price: $14.99
9. Whaline Flower and Smile Badge Reels
Looking for more options so you can switch up your reel depending on your mood? This package of eight acrylic badge holders has cheerful flowers and smiley faces that can go with any scrub color.
Price: $9.99
10. 4275handmade Personalized Resin Badge Reel
These bright and beautiful resin badge reels can be personalized to your name, credentials, and favorite color. In nursing, a name badge reel can also help prevent you from losing your reel if it’s disconnected from your ID.
Price: $17.99
Use Your Fresh Nurse Badge Reel in a New Role
If you’re looking for ways to revitalize your nursing career, IntelyCare can help. We help skilled nursing professionals like you find roles that match their skills and scheduling needs. Create a job seeker account to get started.