Latex Balloons
Latex balloons that are inflated to their correct size usually do not pose a safety risk (if supervised), however broken balloons and pieces of latex balloons can be dangerous. Small children and pets may chew on latex balloons that have broken and children sometimes try to blow bubbles with the small pieces. This poses a risk of ingestion and can block the airway causing suffocation. Broken balloons and all pieces should be collected and disposed of properly to avoid the risk of injury or death.
WARNING: Adult supervision is recommended. Uninflated balloons should be kept from children and pets. Immediately remove and dispose of broken balloons.
Latex Allergy
Latex is a natural product and like other items can cause sensitivity in some people. In a small number of people, this sensitivity to latex can cause skin irritation or other allergic reaction including anaphylaxis. Because latex sensitivity can occur, we do not place unwrapped candy inside of latex balloons. We also offer several options for gift giving that do not include latex balloons.
Balloon Cups, Sticks and Valves
Our Air-Filled arrangements may contain cups and sticks that hold latex or mylar balloons in place. These small plastic pieces may be a choking hazard. Some balloons contain a valve to seal the balloon. These are small plastic pieces that may be swallowed or cause a choking hazard to children and pets. As always, adult supervision is recommended.
Candy baskets may contain wooden sticks to hold the candy in the desired arrangement for presentation. These sticks can be sharp and should be removed by an adult.
HELIUM SAFETY
WHEN USED PROPERLY, HELIUM IS A SAFE GAS. Helium is a non-flammable, non-toxic, odorless gas which is lighter than air. It can be used safely either indoors or outdoors, within certain guidelines.
WARNING: NEVER INHALE HELIUM GAS. HELIUM DEPLETES THE BRAIN AND BODY OF OXYGEN AND IF INHALED CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. HELIUM DISPLACES OXYGEN AND SHOULD NEVER BE USED IN ENCLOSED SPACES. KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.
BALLOONS REPRESENT A POSSIBLE CHOKING HAZARD. CHILDREN UNDER EIGHT YEARS CAN CHOKE OR SUFFOCATE ON UNINFLATED OR BROKEN BALLOONS. ADULT SUPERVISION IS REQUIRED. KEEP UNINFLATED BALLOONS AWAY FROM CHILDREN. DISCARD BROKEN BALLOONS IMMEDIATELY.
WARNING: NEVER RELEASE METALLIC FOIL BALLOONS “SET FREE” IN PUBLIC AS THE THIS MAY RESULT IN CONTACT WITH ELECTRICITY POWER LINES AN CAUS MAJOR PROBLEMS LIKE POWER OUTAGES NAD ELECTRIC SHOCK
Metallic Balloon Safety Tips
HELIUM Metallic Balloon Safety Tips
- Never release metallic balloons into the sky.
- Always attach a small weight to the end of the ribbon or string that holds the helium-filled metallic balloon to keep it from floating away. Some ideas for a weight include a mug, small stuffed animal or heavy toy.
- Use only non-metallic string and make sure it is tied securely to the balloon at the sealing point.
- Do not remove balloon weights until the balloon has been deflated.
- Each metallic balloon should be individually attached to a weight. Avoid tying the balloons together which has a greater chance of rising as a cluster and becoming entangled in power lines, increasing the chances of electrical problems or power outages.
- Properly dispose of metallic balloons; cut balloons with scissors directly above the knot or sealing point to deflate it and immediately put the balloon in the trash.
- If you see a metallic balloon caught in a power line, DO NOT attempt to climb a utility pole or pull the string to recover it. Leave it alone and call the city Electric’s trouble line and report it.
Balloon Guide & Safety
Safety is a non-negotiable for us. We love parties and balloons, however, we enjoy and appreciate individuals who party and celebrate responsibly.
- Do not leave children and pets unattended with balloons.
- Balloons (whether broken, not inflated, inflated or partly deflated) can cause choking or suffocation
- Do not allow children and pets to chew on deflated balloons or pieces of popped balloons. Ribbons can be choking hazards as well as any plastic sealers and garland plastic.
- Do not allow children to blow up balloons unsupervised.
- Keep balloons out of the reach of children and pets
- Store non-inflated balloons safely and securely
- Please do not leave balloons in the car
Keep your balloons secured to weights/anchors.
Do not inhale helium, it is harmful to your health and wellness.
Please check if there is a latex allergy. In a case of latex allergy please select Mylar balloons.
If you are a planet-friendly shopper, shop our latex balloon section.
Our latex balloons are manufactured by Qualatex, and are biodegradable and decompose
Are Biodegradable Balloons a Safe Alternative?
Although latex balloons, like those from Qualatex, are indeed biodegradable and made from plant-based materials, it’s important to note that “biodegradable” doesn’t mean risk-free. Even these eco-friendlier options can still pose hazards to wildlife and the environment if released outdoors. Animals may mistake deflated balloons for food or become entangled, causing harm well before the balloon breaks down.
So, while biodegradable balloons are a better choice for the planet and responsible celebration, they should always be disposed of properly never released into the air. Enjoy your balloons with peace of mind by keeping them secured, supervised, and out of nature’s way.
Even balloons marked as “biodegradable” are harmful, as they can cause damage before they decompose. Because of this, there is no such thing as a “harmless” balloon release.
Foil/Mylar Balloons
Made from nylon and an aluminum coating.
Are not biodegradable, but are RECYCLABLE with plastic.
You can reuse your foil/mylar balloons, they are refillable. We can’t guarantee that they will inflate all the time, but, give it a shot!
Ensure they are always weighted/anchored down. PLEASE DO NOT RELEASE THEM IN THE AIR.
If they are not disposed properly, they will be in our landfills forever. Please reuse or return to our store. You will receive a 13% discount off your next order.
Latex Balloons
100% biodegradable. Plant based. Made from sap rubber from the Hevea tree and not plastic. Latex balloons are 100% natural rubber latex (NRL)
Balloon Disposal
When your celebration has ended, deflate your balloons and follow these steps…
Foil balloons,
- Cut balloons to release helium or air.
- Cut into small pieces
- a. Flatten, store and reuse, b. Recycle with plastic, c. return to our store.
Latex balloons, please follow these steps…
- Cut balloons to release helium or air.
- Cut into small pieces
- Dispose with household waste, where it will decompose in the landfill
Balloon Float Times
There are many numerous factors and they vary based on the material, contents inside, size and the temperature (in transit and storage)
8″-11″ latex balloons 16-24 hours
18″-36″ balloons 3-5 days
8″-11″ Confetti 8-12 hrs
Foil Balloons 3-5 days
Mega numbers & letters 3-5 days
We use Hi-Float in our latex balloons to extend use. (For inflated balloons in our store)
Temperature
Cold air, snow and rain can deflate balloons (*Sometimes, them may return once taken indoors)
Warm/room temperature can expand them
In extreme hot temperatures, helium gas expands and bursts
Keep balloons away from extreme heat
Foil balloons are very sensitive to temperature.
WE DO NOT SUPPORT OUTDOOR RELEASES OF BALLOONS INTO THE ATMOSPHERE.
Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Balloon Releases
Looking for ways to celebrate or remember loved ones without harming the environment? There are plenty of thoughtful and creative alternatives to balloon releases that keep things beautiful for future generations. Some ideas for commemorative gatherings include:
- Planting in honor: Trees, flowers, or shrubs can become lasting tributes that grow over time.
- Floating flowers: Set blooms afloat on water for a gentle, picturesque gesture—no cleanup needed.
- Wildflower seed bombs: Scatter native seeds together and watch your memory garden flourish.
- Candle-lighting ceremonies: A quiet moment of reflection, illuminated by a soft glow.
- Blowing bubbles: Bring a bit of joy to the air—kids and adults alike love chasing bubbles!
- Organizing a group walk, run, or jump rope challenge: Celebrate togetherness and raise awareness for a cause.
- Community drives: Collect books or food to donate locally, spreading goodwill as your tribute.
There are so many meaningful ways to honor someone or mark an occasion—no balloons required.
Eco-friendly alternatives to balloon releases
The nonprofit Balloons Blow has compiled a list of 20 alternatives to balloon releases. There are some really creative ideas that are mostly low-cost and low-impact to use in your next commemorative event or celebration!
For commemorative events:
- Planting in remembrance
- Drumming
- Floating flowers
- Wildflower seed bombs
- Jumping rope, running, or walking for a cause
- Candle-lighting
- Blowing bubbles
- Book and food drives
WE DO NOT SUPPORT OUTDOOR RELEASES OF BALLOONS INTO THE ATMOSPHERE** .
Balloons are a risk to our marine life and often times, marine animals mistaken the balloon for food. Let’s work together to keep balloons out of our oceans, rivers and lakes.
It’s important to remember that all balloons released into the air eventually return to Earth—as litter. Balloons can travel thousands of miles from where they’re released, polluting even the most remote and pristine landscapes. The impact goes far beyond where you let go of that string—balloons can end up harming wildlife in places you never intended.
Let’s make choices that protect both our communities and our planet.
How You Can Help Educate Others
There are simple yet powerful steps you can take to raise awareness about the dangers of balloon releases. Start by sharing what you’ve learned with friends, family, and your community—whether that’s through a conversation, social media post, or even a school project.
Consider utilizing resources provided by some organizations, which offers educational materials and student action packs designed to make learning engaging and impactful. Reporting local balloon releases and encouraging schools or groups to choose alternative celebrations such as bubbles, flowers, or reusable decorations inspires others to make eco-friendly choices too.
Other ways to help the cause
Balloons Blow, Inc. Is a nonprofit that allows individuals to report a balloon release. They also have educational resources linked on their site so you can spread the word through student action packs and more.
Together, these everyday actions can spark change and encourage more people to protect our waterways and wildlife.
Choose Creative, Ocean-Friendly Alternatives
Inspired to help? Start by swapping out balloons with eye-catching, sustainable décor. Embrace tissue paper pom-poms, colorful banners, pinwheels, lanterns, or even bubbles at your next celebration. By talking with friends, community groups, or your company, you can help spread the word: we don’t need balloons to make an event festive and memorable.
A little creativity goes far in protecting our waterways, and together, we can set an example that’s as fun as it is environmentally responsible.
Sustainable Alternatives to Balloons for Festive Events
Fortunately, you don’t have to sacrifice color and fun to protect our wildlife. There are plenty of eco-friendly ways to decorate your next celebration without balloons:
- Brightly colored flags and banners add vibrancy and can flutter beautifully in the breeze.
- Streamers and bunting create a festive atmosphere and are reusable for future events.
- Kites and garden spinners bring movement and color, delighting both kids and adults.
- Pinwheels and ribbon dancers catch the sunlight and are safe for the environment.
- Tissue pompoms offer a playful pop of color indoors or outside without harming nature.
- Dancing inflatables (like the iconic wavy guys at car lots) bring energy to larger spaces.
By choosing these planet-friendly decorations, you’ll help keep our waterways safe while still making memories to last a lifetime.
Party responsibly, don’t pop, don’t let go, don’t litter. Be a good human. We love our earth, environment and community.