Helium balloons add joy and color to any celebration—but how long do they actually last?
The answer depends on several factors, such as the balloon type, material, size, temperature, and how well it’s sealed.
In this guide, we’ll explain how long helium balloons last, how to make them float longer, and how to save costs when buying or refilling helium gas.
A helium balloon lasts from a few hours to a few months
The lifespan of a helium balloon depends on several factors, such as its material, size, and shape.
A standard foil balloon usually lasts around 5 to 7 days, while premium-quality types like Ibrex balloons can stay afloat for several months under the right conditions.
In the following sections, we’ll explain how each factor affects floating time—and share practical tips to help your balloons last longer.
Balloon materials
Among all materials, foil balloons generally last the longest.
Helium atoms are smaller than the pores in latex, which causes them to escape quickly from latex balloons.
In contrast, Mylar and bubble balloons have denser surfaces that slow down helium leakage.
Another advantage of Mylar and bubble balloons is that they often come with built-in check valves, allowing you to refill helium when needed. This makes them ideal for long-term displays or multi-day events, such as trade shows or festivals.
If you’re looking for helium balloons that last longer, we recommend high-sealing models like ibrex™ or T-Balloon / Bubble Balloon™, all available from our brand, TakaraTec.
Here’s a general guide:
| Balloon type | How long does it last |
| Latex | A few hours to 2 days |
| Mylar (Foil) | Standard size: 5 days to 1 week Large size: 2 to 3 weeks |
| ibrex™ (Foil) | Small size: 30 days Standard size: several months |
| T-Balloon / Bubble Balloon™ | 10 days to 2 weeks |
Balloon Size
Below is a general guide showing how long Mylar balloons filled with helium typically last. As a rule of thumb, larger balloons stay afloat longer, while smaller ones are usually designed for air-filled use only.
Here’s a general guide:
| Balloon size (Mylar balloon) | How long does it last | Usage Notes |
| 4 / 9 inches | Does not float with helium | Designed for air-filled decorations such as bouquets, flower arrangements, or tabletop gifts. |
| 18 / 19 inches | 3–7 days | Standard size for gift bouquets and event decorations. Available in message and non-message (plain) designs. |
| 20 – 30 inches | 7–10 days | Available in various shapes such as round, heart, and other non-message designs. Commonly used as a main visual piece in gifts or POP displays, and also ideal for filling space in decorative setups. |
| 36 inches and larger | 14-21 days | Jumbo size; perfect for large events, outdoor fairs, or brand logos |
Balloon Shape
Round balloons have slightly more gas capacity compared to other shapes of the same size due to their smooth and uniform shape. Therefore, although slightly, they last longer.
At about 18 inches, if made of mylar, their floating time varies depending on the shape.
Here’s a general guide:
| Balloon Shape (18 inches, mylar balloon) | How long does it last | Characteristics |
| Round | 72-168 hours (3-7 days) | The most efficient shape with a minimum leakage |
| Heart | 72-144 hours (3-6 days) | Pointed edges allow helium to escape faster |
| Star | 72-144 hours (3-6 days) | Multiple corners allow helium to escape even faster |
| Animal / Character shaped | 72-120 hours (3-5 days) | A complex shape with many joints and seams tends to lose helium faster |
External factors that affect how long helium balloons last
Aside from the type and size of the balloon, several external factors can influence how long helium balloons stay afloat.
Here are some key ones to keep in mind:
- Temperature: Heat causes helium to expand and escape faster, while cold air slows leakage but also reduces lift.
- Humidity: High humidity can weaken latex balloons.
- Sealing: Poorly tied knots or valves allow helium to leak faster. A check valve can last longer.
How to make a helium balloon last longer?
To make the helium balloons last longer, you need to create conditions that prevent the gas from escaping easily.
Here are some simple but effective tips:
- Keep them cool and dry: Store balloons in a shaded, air-conditioned area
- Use foil balloons: Helium atoms are smaller than the pores in the latex balloons, but foil materials seal more tightly and retain helium longer
- Apply a Hi-Float solution: This coating can help latex balloons stay inflated from a few hours to several days longer
- Choose round-shaped balloons: Round shapes have the smallest surface area, meaning less helium escapes
- Seal tightly: Tie the balloon securely or use a check valve to keep helium from leaking out
Helium balloons cost and why it’s important
Helium gas can be expensive, and its price continues to rise. A typical mylar balloon requires about 15 grams of helium, which costs around USD 1.46–1.77 per balloon.
If you use 30 foil balloons over a three-month corporate event period, and each balloon lasts only five days, you’ll end up spending roughly USD 790–960 just to keep them floating
If you hire a vendor or a store to refill the helium, that’s an additional cost on top of the gas itself. That’s why it’s so important to make your helium last as long as possible—choosing high-quality balloons and maintaining optimal conditions can significantly reduce overall expenses.
FAQ
- How long does a balloon filled with air last?
Air-filled balloons last longer than helium-filled ones. A typical latex balloon lasts about 2-3 days, while a typical myler balloon can stay inflated for 1 to 3 month or over. - Is it cheaper to fill the helium myself?
Yes, it is usually more cost-effective to fill balloons yourself if you need to fill in many balloons. You can purchase a helium tank online or from a party supply store. - How do I fill the balloon with helium?
Filling a balloon with helium is similar to using a regular air pump. Attach the balloon to the tank nozzle, press gently to release helium, and stop once it’s fully inflated and firm to the touch—avoid overfilling, as this can cause leaks or popping. - Does brand matter in the hours it lasts?
Yes, brand and material quality make a big difference. Premium brands like our TakaraTec’s ibrex™ or T-Balloon and Bubble Balloon™ are made from higher-barrier materials that prevent helium from escaping quickly, allowing the balloon to stay afloat for significantly longer.
