At Eco Ninjas, one of our core missions is to enhance patient safety by improving communication within operating theatres, cardiac catheter labs, maternity, and radiology departments. We also appreciate that not every hospital or Trust will choose our theatre badge hats as their preferred option — which is why we offer a range of high-quality reusable theatre hats, available plain or embroidered, with or without logos.

Many hospitals choose to colour-code plain hats according to staff roles, while others opt for a single colour with names and roles embroidered on the front. When considering personalised hats, it's worth factoring in staff turnover, as named hats often leave with individuals when they move on.

All our hats are made from polycotton — the same durable material used for NHS scrubs. After extensive discussions with laundry partners and textile experts, polycotton remains the most practical, long-lasting, and shrink-resistant fabric available. We're also actively exploring new materials such as hemp and other plant-based textiles.

Why Named Hats Matter: Real Patient Feedback

Before deciding whether to implement named or plain hats across your Trust, here are just a few of the heartfelt comments received via Somerset's social media following their successful one-month theatre badge hat trial in Orthopaedics.

I had orthopaedic surgery yesterday at MPH. As a patient this was lovely — I could talk to people and immediately know who they were and what their role was. Very reassuring.

As an autistic person who struggles with faces on a good day, this is an excellent initiative!

Fantastic idea — hope NHS England pick up this idea and roll it out nationwide. Eco friendlier plus patient friendlier too. Win win.

I had a full hip replacement last week. This would have been a great way to connect with the team who treated and supported me. ❤️ NHS.

Love the idea! Clearly displaying names is so important to patients — especially when in a new environment and in pain.

These testimonials highlight the power of clearly identifying theatre staff — not just for improving sustainability and team communication, but for making patients feel safer, more at ease, and more connected in what can be a very daunting environment.

How We Support Your Transition

We're not a traditional retailer — we focus on large-scale Trust conversions across the UK, offering hands-on, personalised support throughout implementation. From initial planning to post-launch reviews, we bring our experience to help each hospital roll out reusable theatre hats in a way that fits their unique setting.

Here's how we support you:

• Help with selecting colours, embroidery, badge options and order volumes.
• Provide a detailed implementation plan and educational posters for staff.
• Advise on infection control protocols tailored to your laundering method.
• Guidance on washing and storing badges.
• Recommend the right hat styles and sizes — including our multicultural and inclusive range.

We've also developed a comprehensive implementation guide, drawing on four years of research, feedback and lived experiences. We are now set up with NHS approved Framework provider Mediq.

Let's Build a Greener, Safer NHS Together

We're excited to continue supporting more Trusts as they join us in making the switch to reusable, clearly identifiable theatre hats. If you have any questions or would like to explore options for your hospital, please get in touch.