How early can I blow up my air-filled balloons?

I'm going to make 2 balloon columns and would like to get started as early as possible. Can I start these the day before?

ANSWER:

Yes, you can definitely inflate your balloons the day before. In general, air-filled balloons last much longer than helium-filled balloons.

Depending on the environment, balloon decor blown up with air can last several days to weeks whereas helium-inflated decorations typically last for only 10 to 12 hours.

IMPORTANT TIP: Store the inflated balloons in large, clean plastic bags that close tightly over the balloons. Otherwise the balloons will oxidize and lose their shiny surface.

Large trash bags like these 55 galloon clear drum bin liners will do the job just fine.

Related questions that might interest you as well:

Do air balloons last overnight?

Generally speaking, yes. Air-filled latex or foil balloons will not deflate overnight, especially when the arch, column or garland is indoors.

Even an outdoor arch or column will last overnight. However, dew and condensation during the night can make the balloon surface wet and slightly sticky.

This can cause balloons to fuse together when the sun comes out. Add some wind into the scenario, and a whole row of balloons might pop at the same time!

How do you make air balloons last longer?

The biggest "enemies" of balloons are humidity, heat, direct sunlight, sharp objects and wind.

Eliminating these factors as much as possible makes your blown up balloons last longer.

Air-filled balloon decorations that last the longest (several days to a month or longer) are typically indoors, away from entrances or windows, in an air-conditioned environment with constant humidity and temperature levels.

By the way, air-filled mylar balloons can last years, even decades! Check out this page with stories from my readers about how long mylar balloons stay firmly inflated.

If you're decorating outdoors, longevity is greatly reduced. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and wind, if at all possible. The choice of color and balloon brand can also help extend the life of outdoor balloon decor.

More tips here: How to prevent balloon decor from popping in outdoors heat

What makes balloon decor NOT last?

We touched upon the factors already that causes your latex balloons to deflate, shrink, lose their shiny surface or pop.

The video below does a great job in explaining the processes and reasons why balloons don't last forever and what you can do about it. Enjoy!



If you have additional questions or suggestions about how far in advance you can blow up balloons, please leave a comment!

Best,

Margit