How can I prevent my stuffed latex balloon from becoming cloudy?

by Virginia
(Lake Havsu City, AZ)

They appear to be okay at first, then become more cloudy looking even when kept away from sun and heat.

How to Prevent a Stuffed Latex Balloon From Becoming Cloudy

Hi Virginia,

As latex balloons are biodegradable, it is normal that they oxidize and become cloudy or chalky over time as they degrade.

Heat, sun and high humidity can accelerate the process, so you are doing the right thing by keeping your stuffed balloon away from sun and heat.

The producers of the Keepsake Balloon Stuffing machine — one of the major players in the area of balloon stuffing machines — recommend to coat the balloon with a silicone based spray (for example "Stay Clear", "Balloon Shine" or "Balloon Shield") to reduce oxidation.

If you spray the balloon with the silicone compound and polish it with a cotton glove, the balloon will shine more and stay clearer longer.

The producers of Hi-Float have another tip, specifically for preventing stuffed latex balloons from going cloudy.

They recommend to treat the stuffed balloon with diluted Ultra Hi-Float solution (1 cup of hi-float mixed with 2 cups of warm water).

They claim that this treatment with Ultra Hi-Float can keep the stuffed balloon clear and shiny for several weeks.

Instructions for treating the outside of an inflated balloon with Hi-Float

Hope that helps.

Margit