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Helium balloons are commonly known as a “floating balloon”, but what exactly makes helium balloons different from regular balloons – and what materials make them last longer?

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about helium balloons, including how they work, what they’re made of, when to use them, etc.

What is helium?

Helium is a natural, colorless, odorless, non-toxic, and non-flammable gas. It was first identified in 1868 by the French astronomer Pierre Janssen while observing a solar eclipse with a spectroscope. He detected a yellow spectral line that did not match any known element at the time, which led to the discovery of helium.

Helium has unique properties that other gases do not. Because it is extremely light and stable, it is used in many fields—for cooling equipment, cleaning sensitive components, medical applications, and, of course, inflating balloons.

However, helium is a finite natural resource. Global supply shortages in recent years have caused prices to rise.

What are helium balloons made of?

Helium balloons are typically made from either latex (natural rubber) or mylar (foil), which is a metal-coated plastic such as polyethylene or nylon.
While standard latex balloons can be filled with helium, helium atoms are much smaller than air molecules. This allows helium to escape through latex more easily, causing the balloon to deflate within several hours to a couple of days.

To make balloons last longer, specially designed materials such as mylar (foil) are used. These materials are less porous, making it more difficult for helium to escape.

We, TakaraTec, a balloon manufacturer in Japan, has also developed an ibrex™balloon and Bubble balloon™ that are suitable for helium use. In particular, ibrex™, featuring a multi-layer barrier coating, can continue floating for over one month.

Here are some types of balloons that can be filled with helium:

1. Latex balloons

Latex balloons are made from natural rubber derived from the sap of rubber trees. Although rubber trees are native to the Amazon region of South America, most latex production today comes from Southeast Asian countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia.

Pros: 

• Biodegradable (natural material) 
• Affordable 
• Great for short-term events 

Cons: 

• Helium escapes quickly due to the small size of helium atoms
• Typically float less than 24 hours 

If you’re planning a same-day party or event, latex can be a cost-effective option. However, releasing balloons into the sky is not recommended due to environmental concerns.

2. Mylar (Foil) Balloons

Foil balloons, often called “Mylar balloons,” are made from nylon-based plastic films coated with a thin layer of aluminum through a vapor deposition process.

One major advantage of mylar balloons is that they can be custom printed with words or illustrations. After printing, the material is die-cut using molds, allowing for a wide variety of shapes and designs.

Because the material is less porous and well coated, helium escapes much more slowly. Properly sealed foil balloons—such as iBrex, our balloon brand—can last for several weeks to a month. This makes them ideal for long-lasting decorations.

Pros: 

• Holds helium much longer than latex
• Can be custom printed 
• Available in many shapes (letters, numbers, logos, characters) 
• More durable 

Cons: 

• More expensive 
• Not biodegradable 

3. Bubble Balloon™

In addition to latex and Mylar (foil) balloons, there is a third category made from a specially developed film material.

Bubble Balloon™ is designed to offer enhanced durability and a distinctive visual appeal. The transparent look is a signature of Takara Tec.

Although the balloon has seams, it is inflated until the surface becomes smooth and　wrinkle-free, creating a bubble-like appearance and a refined, high-end look.

Some variations such as Bubble Balloon DECO allow smaller latex or foil balloons to be placed inside, enabling unique and eye-catching designs. However, standard Bubble Balloon™ products are heat-sealed with an inflation valve and normally cannot be opened to insert items inside.

Pros:

• Unique, clear, and modern appearance
• Smooth, wrinkle-free surface
• Durable and long-lasting when properly sealed
• Available in a wide variety of sizes and design options

Cons:

• More expensive than latex balloons
• Not biodegradable

Helium vs. air-filled balloons

Both types inflate balloons, but they differ in cost, longevity, variations, and purpose.

Feature	Air-filled balloons	Helium-filled balloon
Float or not	Does not	Float
Cost	Lower	Higher
Preparation	Just a pump	Need to purchase a helium tank or go to a balloon shop

Air-filled balloons are ideal for arches, garlands, or wall displays. Helium balloons are perfect when you want a floating effect.

How to inflate foil balloons with helium

To fill helium balloons, you can purchase a helium tank and inflate them yourself, or ask a local balloon shop to provide inflation services.

Steps to inflate a foil balloon: 

1. Turn the canister/tank valve counterclockwise
2. Attach the nozzle or inflation tip to the canister/tank valve if necessary
3. Insert the inflation tip into the two layers of plastic
4. Pinch the sides of the nozzle to keep the helium from escaping
5. Make sure you do not overinflate it

For more details on how to blow up balloons, please check the article below:

When should we use helium balloons?

Helium balloons are great when you want to have customizable balloons that float during your parties, weddings, or any kind of event for celebration. It’s a perfect balloon for customization.

You should use helium balloons:

<for balloon customization>

• Display a message at eye-level
• Spread the awareness of your brand logo
• Conduct a themed-party

<to make the events/parties more interesting>

• Fill empty spaces in booths or venues
• Surprise guests with floating balloons
• Create Instagram-worthy spaces
• Release the balloons during the countdown event

Helium Balloons as Versatile Decorations

Helium balloons are floating decorations that can elevate any event or celebration. However, helium is becoming more expensive and increasingly difficult to source. Choosing the right balloon material and using balloons responsibly can help extend float time, reduce waste, and make your decorations more environmentally conscious.

We hope you enjoy using helium balloons at your next event!

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