Badge Reels and Yo-Yos

Retractable ID Badge Reels and Yo-Yos Overview

Badge reels are used daily in healthcare, security, manufacturing, retail, schools and events wherever staff need hands-free access to identification or access control cards.

• Fitting types available: strap, ring, carabiner, dog clip, lanyard clip bar
• Cord lengths: 60 cm, 70 cm, 80 cm or 90 cm depending on model
• Duty ratings: medium duty plastic, heavy duty metal (all-metal enclosure), non-magnetic (non-ferrous metals)
• Colour options: black, chrome, plus up to nine colours on plastic models including a rainbow pack
• Specialist options: NHS-logo reel, non-magnetic reel, personalised logo reels, lanyard-compatible reel

Badge reels keep an ID card or access pass attached to the wearer at all times while giving enough cord to swipe, scan or show the badge without removing it. On production floors, in clinical settings and at busy counters or security checkpoints, a swinging lanyard is often impractical or unsafe. A badge reel keeps the card close to the body between uses.

Duty rating, attachment type and magnetic compatibility are the three things that shape the right choice. Plastic medium-duty reels handle everyday office and retail use well. While, heavy-duty metal badge reels carry an all-metal enclosure and an extra-thick cord, so they hold up in security, industrial or outdoor roles. The carabiner reel clips to a zip, bag or belt loop with a nylon cord rated to 50,000 pulls, making it a solid and durable choice for active or outdoor staff. If the role involves MRI scanners or high-magnetic machinery, the non-magnetic reel is built from plastic and non-ferrous metal so it won't interfere with equipment. For teams who already use lanyards, the lanyard clip reel threads straight onto the cord and loops through a slot-punched card or holder. If you want your logo on the reel, personalised badge reels are available with a custom-printed design.

NHS staff can choose the dedicated blue NHS-logo reel (part number 08-1300NHS), which displays the NHS identity in Pantone 300 and aids staff identification at a distance. Pair any reel with a compatible ID card holder to protect the card itself, or browse lanyards if a fixed neck cord suits your team better.