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There are many uses for a lanyard, from carrying ID badges to keys and as such there are a multitude of clips and attachments that can go on the end. If you are struggling to find the right attachment or accessory, then we have created a handy guide, which will hopefully prove useful when deciding on the right solution for your lanyard.
The first thing to decide when you are ordering a lanyard, is to choose the clip that will attach your chosen accessory to your lanyard. There are lots of types of clips for purchase, but below we list the most popular ones you are likely to come across.
- Metal Trigger Clip – the standard attachment, a small metal loop with a trigger mechanism.
- Plastic Trigger Clip – if you want a standard clip but have an allergy to certain metals, the plastic version is a suitable alternative.
- Dog Clip/ Swivel J Hook – this is like a smaller version of a carabiner, a small metal loop with a spring-loaded gate that you pinch open.
- Crocodile Clip – Possibly the most well-known of the clips, it may give you flashbacks of school, a sprung metal clip with teeth.
- Flat Metal Hook – Similar to a dog clip, with a pinch open mechanism, but the metal loop is larger and flatter with no overlap and more like the versions used in climbing. Although obviously much smaller!
- Split Ring – A split ring is a strip of metal looped almost twice around, most commonly used for keyrings.
- Lobster Claw – Also known as an oval hook, there is no overlap and the metal meets together at the join with the pinch mechanism. This is shaped like a lobster’s claw, hence the name!
- Carabiner clip – Similar to the metal trigger clip, but with a pin and spring-loaded mechanism.
- Quick release/short release clip – This added accessory allows you to release the clip at a bottom of a lanyard.
- Safety break – perhaps the most important of all the attachments, the safety break is positioned at the back of the neck, although it can be placed elsewhere. This is a vitally important addition to your lanyard, especially if it is going to be used by children or vulnerable adults. This ensures that if the lanyard gets caught on or around something, it will snap off without injury. Most companies apply these as standard, however they can be purchased without, although that is something that we would not recommend.
Metal trigger clips are often the standard attachment on lanyards; however, it usually depends on the purpose of your lanyard. If you are purchasing your lanyard for ID badges or passes, then you need to choose a clip that is secure, so trigger clips and hook clips are best used for this purpose. As to which one is the most suitable, that is entirely dependent on your budget and aesthetic preference.
If you are buying a lanyard(s) for the purpose of carrying heavier objects, such as promotional or personal items, then a carabiner type clip should be your attachment of choice. Often used in climbing, they are sturdy and are less likely to snap from the weight.
The Split Ring attachment is most used for keyrings and keys, as extras can be easily added or taken off whilst keeping your items secure.
Accessories
There is an extensive range of accessories available for lanyards. The most common uses and accessories are for security or promotional purposes. But there an unlimited number of purposes a lanyard can be used for and therefore a lot of possible accessories! As the word lanyard simply means strap, you could use one to carry anything you wished. However, we have listed some of the most popular accessories you may need when purchasing a lanyard.
Identification holders are by far the most purchased lanyard accessory. For the security conscious business or organization, lanyards are an efficient, cost effective method for carrying ID’s. There are two general types of holders:
- Clear Soft PVC badge holders – These are clear wallets with punched holes to accommodate both single and double ended lanyards. They come in a range of sizes, are inexpensive to buy and provide easy accessibility for security purposes. The ID can be slotted in at the top and the PVC is weatherproof.
- Rigid plastic ID Cardholders – These can be used for ID’s or membership cards as they are available in both portrait and landscape orientations. They are also available either open faced or enclosed and can be used for double sided ID purposes. Around the size of your credit card, they can be customised to your business or organization, or simply bought in a range of colours. These are sturdier and less flexible than their soft PVC counterparts, so offer a durability suitable for long term wear.
If you are buying your lanyards for promotional purposes, for an event or conference, then it is worth considering adding an accessory for the lanyard in the form of a promotional gift. This is more likely to get the recipient to wear your lanyard and can prove an inexpensive branding push. The gift does not have to be expensive, often a lip balm or whistle if it is sporting or festival related, but adding a promotional gift as an accessory can often be a useful marketing tool.
If your lanyard is being used for a badge or security pass, or even keys, then a badge reel is an excellent accessory. They can be customised with a print of your choice, so can help with your branding, whilst a popper fastening or metal belt clip provides an easy way for your employees or client to keep their access passes and keys secure.
If you are thinking about buying either lanyards or any clips or accessories. Then look no further than here at Only Lanyards. Not only do we have a fantastic range of products, but if you cannot find what you are looking for then contact us for a personalized quote.