12–16 g Upsize for wind or long ribbon.
Helium Balloon Safety Guide and Weight Rules
Helium Balloon Safety Guide and Weight Rules
Safe handling, correct weights, and transport tips for homes, hotels, and venues.
Quick jump
Transport and storage
- Keep balloons cool. Use vehicle A/C and park in shade. Avoid hot cars and direct sun.
- Do not press balloons against sharp edges or ceilings. Use sleeves or a clean bag.
- Secure with weights in vehicles so balloons do not drift into driver view.
- Store indoors at room temperature away from heaters, vents, and open windows.
Note: Heat expands gas and cold contracts it. Expect temporary deflation in cold rooms and higher pop risk in heat.
Weights chart
Use these conservative ranges for standard ribbons. Increase weight in windy areas, tall atriums, or where ribbons are long.
| Balloon / bouquet | Typical size | Min weight (g) | When to upsize |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single latex | 11" | 12–16 g | Outdoor breeze, long ribbon, high ceilings |
| Single foil | 18" | 8–12 g | Outdoor handoff, long ribbon |
| Single bubble | 22" | 22–35 g | Photo backdrop areas, high foot-traffic |
| Single number foil | 34" | 35–65 g | Lobby airflow, near doors or fans |
| Bouquet | 3 × 11" latex | 35–50 g | Open-plan offices, window drafts |
| Bouquet | 5 × 11" latex + 1 × 18" foil | 65–90 g | Hotel rooms, hallways, atriums |
| Bouquet | 8 × 11" latex + 1 × 18" foil | 100–170 g | Event foyers, stage wings |
8–12 g Upsize for outdoor handoff.
22–35 g Upsize for busy photo zones.
35–65 g Upsize near doors or fans.
35–50 g Office or lounge.
65–90 g Hotel or hallway.
100–170 g Foyers or stage wings.
Note: Ranges are planning guides. Actual lift varies with brand, temperature, altitude, ribbon length, and accessories.
Venue rules
- Always use weights. Never release balloons outdoors. Follow local restrictions.
- Keep décor clear of sprinklers, detectors, exit signage, and HVAC returns.
- Use free-standing frames and base plates when wall attachment is restricted.
- Avoid open flames. Keep away from hot lights and cooking equipment.
- Plan access: loading dock, service elevator, and quiet-hour installs where required.
Kids and pets
- Latex fragments are a choking hazard. Dispose of broken balloons immediately.
- Do not inhale helium. It displaces oxygen and can be dangerous.
- Supervise children. Keep ribbons short and weights out of tripping paths.
- Choose soft, enclosed weights for kids’ tables and low coffee tables.
Disposal
- Deflate fully. Cut ribbons. Bag fragments before binning.
- Reuse weights and base plates. Recycle foil/Mylar where accepted.
- Never release balloons into the environment. Check local bylaws before events.
Shop add-ons
City pages
FAQ
What weight should I use for an 11-inch balloon?
Start at 12–16 g per balloon. Add more for long ribbons, breeze, or tall ceilings.
Can I leave balloons in a parked car?
No. Heat increases pressure and popping risk. Use A/C and minimize time in cars.
Are balloons safe near sprinklers?
Keep well below sprinklers and detectors. Use free-standing frames and clear exit paths.
Is it safe to breathe helium?
No. Inhaling helium displaces oxygen and can cause injury. Keep helium use supervised.
How should I dispose of balloons after an event?
Deflate, cut ribbons, bag fragments, and never release outdoors. Recycle foil where accepted.
Last updated: August 30, 2025.
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