Balloon float times depend on a number of factors, such as size, material (foil, latex, PVC), filling (paper or foil confetti, florals etc.) and attachments. We will discuss these in more detail in this blog post. Here is our helium chart:
Now, let's take a look at some of our most popular balloons:
Latex Balloons
As a rough guide, expect your latex balloons to float for approximately 8-12 hours if inflated to their maximum size with high-quality helium. Please note though, that factors such as temperature, accessories, and decorations used will all have an impact.
Confetti Balloons
Confetti balloons look gorgeous when inflated with air or helium. Regardless of whether you choose to have the confetti pool at the bottom of the balloon, or stuck to the wall of the balloon, the end result is equally as dazzling.
However, adding confetti to a balloon increases the weight of the balloon, and thus reduces the float times. Confetti balloons can float for approximately 6-10 hours. We advise our customers to inflate their balloons 1-2 hours before the event.
Foil Balloons
Foil balloons float for longer periods of time than their latex counterparts when inflated with helium. Some of our customers have reported that their balloons stayed afloat for days (sometimes weeks). Thus, you can inflate your foil balloons a day or two prior to your event. The main reason why foil balloons last this long is the material they are made of (mylar). Mylar is much less porous than latex and so does not allow the helium to escape as quickly as latex balloons. Float times vary between sizes and shapes of all balloons but the most common foil size is the 18-inch round balloon, which can stay looking freshly inflated for around 3-5 days. Animal-shaped foil balloons are generally larger and can stay inflated for weeks!
What affects float time?
Balloon attachments such as curling ribbons and garlands will reduce float times due to their added weight.
Extending the float time
You may extend the float time of your balloon by using Hi-Float. Hi-Float works by coating the inside of the balloon, creating a thin lining/membrane to prevent helium escaping quickly. We hope these tips keep your balloons up there with the best of them, for the time you need!
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