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Balloons 1 - 1

Welcome to the world of Balloons!

Introduction to balloon types:

While some people think balloons are made of magic, there are two most popular types of balloons are latex and foil balloons.

-Latex balloons feel like rubber, they are stretchy and will increase in size once they are inflated. Latex is a natural substance that breaks down and biodegrades over time.

-Foil balloons on the other hand are non-elastic, and they decrease in size as they are inflated (as they become rounder and increase in volume). Foil balloons are made from mylar and are not eco-friendly.

How long will Balloons last with helium?

Balloon Type             Size              Estimate Float Time
Mini Latex                                                         5"-7"                                    not intended to float (Air-filled only)
Large Latex/Jumbo Latex                            24"/36"                                                            12-20hrs
Foil Balloons                                                     1" -17"                                  not intended to float (Air-filled only)
Foil Balloons                                                     18" +                                                            2+ days
*Please note these are estimates only and we do not guarantee helium float times. We strongly suggest inflating balloons with helium as close to your event as possible. 
Standard Latex                                               11"-12"                                                           7-10hrs

How long will Balloons last with Hi-Float?

Hi-Float is a gel sealant used to coat the interior surface of latex balloons and reduces the speed at which helium escapes through the latex skin. It is rubbed on the inside of latex balloons, which makes latex balloons last 2 to 4 days. If Hi-Float is not added, balloons will collapse the next day. If balloons are left in the sun, the Hi-Float will not work. . Hi-Float is water‐soluble and non‐toxic.

Effects of Elevation, Sunlight, Air Conditioning, and Wind:

Foil and Latex Balloons DO NOT do well in the Sun or Heat. Heat and helium just do not mix.

Latex balloons in the Sun or bright light will oxidize. On hot days, in direct sunlight, balloons may pop within an hour. The same result can occur indoors if balloons are exposed to direct sunlight through windows.

 

Balloons should never be left in a hot car.   Balloons outside in the sun and wind will lose helium and ultimately deteriorate. Balloons for outside use, should not be put out until just before the event.

Very cool environments may cause helium molecules to shrink, reducing the size and float time of balloons. This means that your Mylar/Foil helium balloons may seem slightly deflated if the AC is high indoors, or if your balloons are outside and the weather is really cold. But they will go back to normal size once at room temperature. 

Indoors or outdoors, the constant flow of air around a balloon will increase the speed at which helium molecules escape through the wall of the balloon, resulting in reduced float time.

Is Helium Flammable?

No, helium is not flammable, and therefore very safe to use.  

Can I inhale helium out of a balloon & make my voice funny?

It can be fatal to suck helium from a balloon because it displaces the oxygen from your lungs! Although helium is not toxic nor flammable, breathing it can result in asphyxiation (loss of consciousness due to insufficient oxygen).

Do not under any circumstances allow children to use a helium tank without adult supervision!!  

Safety Precautions:

Do not release mylar (foil) balloons outdoors. Power failures can result if these balloons become entangled in electric lines.

Balloons are not toys. Children can choke or suffocate on non-inflated or broken/popped balloons. Do not leave small children unaccompanied with latex balloons; adult supervision is required. Keep non-inflated balloons away from children, and discard broken balloons immediately.

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