The life of a nurse can be a whirlwind of responsibilities, long shifts, and ever-changing demands. Amidst the chaos of the healthcare world, we nurses often seek ways to add a personal touch to our uniforms while still maintaining professionalism and functionality. One accessory that has been making waves in the nursing community is the nurse headband.
Let’s talk about why headbands are so functional for nurses, and share some of our favorite options!
Table of Contents
Why Use a Headband?
First of all, let’s talk about why you should even use a headband as a nurse:
- Cleanliness: Nurses work hard and sometimes we sweat! Headbands can prevent that sweat from dripping into your eyes and on your face in general.
- Style: Headbands not only keep hair in place during busy shifts, but can also bring a dash of personality and fun to the healthcare attire. There are many patterns and colors to choose from, and you can match them with your scrubs to express yourself through your personal style. Also, maintaining a professional appearance, including wearing appropriate headgear, is essential in healthcare settings.
- Preventing Infection: Headbands themselves do not directly prevent infections, but they can play a role in promoting infection control practices when used as part of a healthcare uniform. Here’s how headbands can contribute to infection prevention:
- Hair Containment: Headbands help keep a nurse’s hair in place and prevent loose strands from falling onto the patient or medical equipment. This reduces the risk of hair contamination, which can carry bacteria and/or other pathogens.
- Secure Fit for Masks: headbands with buttons or straps can provide a secure and comfortable fit for face masks, making sure they stay in place and cover the nose and mouth effectively.
- Comfort and Hygiene: Comfortable headbands encourage nurses to keep their hair properly contained while ensuring a comfortable fit throughout a long shift. Comfortable headgear can also encourage healthcare workers to avoid touching their faces, which can reduce the risk of self-contamination.
My Best Tips for Choosing a Good Nurse Headband
- Easy-to-Clean Material: This is probably the most important one. Choose headbands made from materials that are easy to clean. Healthcare settings require rigorous hygiene, so choose headbands that can be wiped clean, machine-washed, or disinfected without losing their shape or color.
- Comfort and Fit: Look for headbands that offer a comfortable fit. Adjustable headbands or those with elastic bands are ideal as they can accommodate different head sizes. The headband should fit snugly but comfortably on your head, not too tight or too loose.
- Secure Closure: Choose headbands with a secure closure mechanism. Headbands with buttons, snaps, or adjustable straps can help keep the headband in place, especially when wearing a mask.
- Moisture-Wicking Fabric: Consider headbands made from moisture-wicking fabric. These fabrics can help absorb sweat and moisture, keeping you dry and comfortable during long shifts.
- Hypoallergenic Material: If you have sensitive skin or allergies, opt for hypoallergenic headbands made from materials that are less likely to cause skin irritation.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: Invest in headbands that are durable and designed to withstand frequent use and washing. Check for quality stitching and construction.
- Style and Design: While functionality is crucial, you can also choose headbands with stylish designs or patterns that express your personality while adhering to your workplace’s dress code.
- Breathable Fabric: Ensure that the headband is made from breathable fabric to prevent overheating during extended shifts.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews and seek recommendations from fellow nurses or healthcare professionals who have experience with specific headbands. They can provide insights into comfort, durability, and performance. (You’re already doing this by reading this post!)
- Price and Value: Consider your budget, but also assess the value of the headband. A slightly higher-priced headband that offers durability and comfort may be a better investment than a cheaper option in the long run.
- Customization Options: Some headbands offer customization, such as personalized embroidery or the ability to choose different colors and patterns to suit your preferences.
- Facilitates Mask Wear: If you need to wear a mask regularly, look for headbands that can securely hold the mask’s ear loops or straps in place, ensuring a snug fit without discomfort.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can choose a nurse headband that not only meets your functional needs but also enhances your comfort and style while working in a healthcare environment.
Recommended Fabric Types for Headbands
- Cotton: Cotton is a comfortable and breathable fabric that’s suitable for headbands. It’s easy to clean, hypoallergenic, and gentle on the skin. Cotton headbands are ideal for all-day wear.
- Jersey Knit: Jersey knit fabrics are soft, stretchy, and comfortable. They provide a snug fit without causing discomfort and are great for headbands.
- Bamboo Fabric: Bamboo fabric is known for its softness and moisture-wicking properties. It’s an eco-friendly option that’s also gentle on the skin.
- Spandex or Elastic Blends: Headbands with a blend of spandex or elastic provide a secure and comfortable fit without being too tight. They’re perfect for holding masks in place.
Fabric types I don’t recommend for headbands: rough or abrasive materials, latex, heavy or non-breathable fabrics, non-stretchy materials, or difficult-to-clean materials.
Where to Buy Nurse Headbands
You can buy nurse headbands in the US from various sources, both online and in physical stores. Here are some options:
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, eBay, Walmart and Etsy offer a wide range of nurse headbands in various styles, colors, and materials.
- Medical Supply Stores: Many medical supply stores and uniform shops carry nurse headbands along with other healthcare apparel and accessories.
- Specialty Healthcare Apparel Brands: Some specialty brands focus on healthcare apparel and accessories. Brands like FIGS and Jaanuu offer headbands designed specifically for healthcare professionals.
- Craft and DIY Stores: If you’re looking for customizable or handmade options, craft and DIY stores like Michaels or Joann Fabrics may have materials and kits to create your own nurse headband.
- Nurse Supply Websites: Websites catering specifically to nurses often offer a selection of nurse headbands.
- Online Marketplaces: Explore online marketplaces specializing in medical apparel and accessories. Websites like The Happy Band and AllHeart offer a variety of headbands for healthcare professionals.
- Local Uniform Shops: Visit local uniform shops or medical supply stores in your area.
10 Fun and Functional Nurse Headbands
Selecting the “best” nurse headbands is subjective as it depends on individual preferences, needs, and style. However, here are ten fun and functional nurse headbands in a variety of styles, I’m sure you can find one that’s right for you.
1. Medical Style Printed Headband
These wide, nonslip nurse headbands are elastic and provide ear protection for both women and men. They are sewn with two large buttons designed to hold your mask securely. The fabric is smooth, soft, and lightweight with fun nursey patterns.
2. Bohemian/African Print Nurse Headband with Buttons
Enjoy the softness, stretchiness, and breathability of these nonslip button headbands with fun African prints and bohemian styles. They come in a pack of six, and have positive reviews from real nurses!
3. Nurse Stethoscope Headband
These elastic hairbands are incredibly flexible, offer larger coverage, and come with buttons, making them ideal for healthcare workers.
4. Ribbed Knit Classic Nurse Headband
These classic ribbed knitting headbands feature a twist knot design that keeps hair out of your face while absorbing sweat. They come in chic, solid colors (for my fellow nurses who prefer no prints!) and feature the usual buttons for your mask.
5. Kerchief Hat Headbands
These wide headbands can cover your head, providing dust and dirt protection. They come in solid colors, are sweat-absorbent, and are a great option for male nurses who’d like to cover their hair as well! They’re made from a blend of nylon, polyester, and spandex.
6. Floral Headbands
These headbands feature a knot in the back and are wide with buttons for added functionality with masks. They are made from nonslip and thick elastic fabric (great for winter!) and come in various lovely floral patterns.
7. No Headache Nurse Headbands
These headbands are a popular choice among nurses and are wide, moisture-wicking, and nonslip. Nurses in the reviews mention that they are comfortable, don’t cause headaches, and they always get compliments on the fun patterns!
8. Bohemian Bow Printed Headbands
Made from chiffon fabric, these headbands feature buttons to support your mask, as well as cute bows and lovely patterns. They include an elastic band at the back, ensuring they stay on your head comfortably for extended periods without causing headaches.
9. Animal Print Headbands
Made from elastic cotton fabric, these headbands feature a knot in the back, and are breathable, stretchable, nonslip, lightweight, moisture-wicking, and durable.
10. Peds Nurse Headbands
Designed for those working with babies and kids, these double-layered headbands are made from soft and stretchy fabric and are non-slip and wide. If you’re a pediatric nurse, they have fun kid-friendly patterns to brighten up your little patients’ days!
Final Thoughts on Nurse Headbands
From headbands designed to secure masks, to comfortable and moisture-wicking options for those intense moments, there’s a headband for every nurse’s needs. I hope you embrace the comfort, functionality, and fun these headbands offer, and choose to add one (or a few!) to your nurse wardrobe to help make your demanding days a bit more comfortable and stylish.
