How to Inflate Helium Balloons – Proper Technique & Pro Tips

updated

August 11, 2025

How to Inflate & Seal Latex Balloons with a Helium Tank and Balloon Pump

Follow these steps to properly inflate latex balloons with a helium tank for maximum float time.

Step 1: Find the opening in the tail, or bottom of the balloon.

Step 2: Push the opening of the balloon onto the nozzle of the pump until it looks airtight.

Step 3: Hold the balloon in place while you press the nozzle to pump the helium into the balloon.

Step 4: When the desired inflation level is achieved, remove the tail from the nozzle while pinching it shut so that no helium escapes.

Step 5: While pinching the balloon shut, stretch the tail around two fingers and tie in a knot to close.

Step 6: Tie a ribbon just above the knot and use a balloon weight to keep it from flying away.

Pro Tip: When inflating latex balloons with air or helium note the recommended teardrop shape shown in the drawing. Even though balloons and can stretch well beyond their properly inflated sizes, be careful not to over-inflate, causing them to have a pear-like shape.

If the balloons are underinflated, they have a round shape. For maximum flying times when using helium, inflate latex balloons to the proper size. Typical sizes of latex balloons should last for 12-24 hours when properly inflated, depending on size. Larger balloons will float longer than smaller ones. Refer to the chart before for details:

$Latex balloon inflation guide$

Latex Balloon Size	Avg. Flying Time with Helium	Avg. # Balloons / Helium Tank (242 cu. ft.)
9" Round	12-16 Hours*	900
11" Round	18-24 Hours*	484
17" Round Outdoor	35-50 Hours*	150
36" Round Giant	3-5 Days*	16

* Conservation averages. Actual flying time will vary depending on temperature and atmospheric conditions. Accessories for sealing latex balloons will increase weight and shorten average flying time.

You can also extend the float time of helium balloons with additives like Hi-Float.

How to Inflate & Seal Foil/Mylar Balloons with a Helium Tank and Balloon Pump

Step 1: Find the opening in the tail, or neck of the balloon.

Step 2: Push the opening of the balloon onto the nozzle of the pump until it looks airtight.

Step 3: Hold the balloon in place while you press the nozzle to pump the helium into the balloon until the desired inflation level is achieved.

Step 4: Foil balloons are inflated through self-sealing valves, located in the balloon necks. When balloons are fully inflated, remove the helium inflation nozzle and the balloons will seal automatically.

Step 5: Tie a ribbon just below the valve and use a balloon weight to keep it from flying away.

Pro Tip: Properly inflated Microfoil balloons are tight (even drum-like) with uniformly-spaced creases along the seams. Tie ribbons to the lower portion of the balloon necks, below the valves. When the balloons begin to soften, you can add helium to refresh them without removing the ribbons.

Typical sizes of Microfoil balloons should last for 3-5 days when properly inflated, depending on size. Larger balloons will float longer than smaller ones. Refer to the chart below for details:

Microfoil Balloon Size	Avg. Flying Time with Helium	Avg. # Balloons / Helium Tank (242 cu. ft.)
18" Round or Heart	3-5 Days*	475
20" Star	3-5 Days*	400
36" Star	10 Days*	95

* Actual flying time will vary depending on inks used and ink coverage. Helium-filled Microfoil balloons may not float in altitudes exceeding approximately 3,000 feet.

Choose & Customize Your Own Balloons

Helium Tanks and Balloon Pumps

You can buy helium tanks and balloon pumps relatively inexpensively from party supply or big box stores for small-scale use.

Where to Get Helium Balloons Filled

If your organization doesn’t have its own helium tank and balloon pump, or you just don’t have the time to do it yourself, you’re not out of luck. Party supply stores like Party City will inflate balloons even when not purchased at their stores, for a fee. Some Walmart locations will also do this. Dollar Tree sells helium balloons but does not offer inflation services. Target also does not offer balloon inflation services, but like Walmart, does sell the supplies you need to do it yourself.

Shop custom imprinted balloons for a fun and effective way to celebrate or promote your brand and message!

How to Use Personalized Latex & Mylar Helium Balloons

Whether you're planning a birthday bash, a grand opening, or a school celebration, custom helium balloons are a fun and effective way to make your event stand out. Here's how you can use them—and what else you might need to pull it all together.

Planning a Corporate Event or Marketing Campaign?

Use custom printed balloons to boost your brand at trade shows, product launches, or company parties. They’re perfect for drawing attention and reinforcing your message.

You might also need:

Branded table covers and banners to set the stage
Custom tote bags or tech giveaways for attendees
Corporate swag ideas to leave a lasting impression

Tip: Helium balloons outside your venue can help guide guests in and attract new customers.

Organizing a School, College, or University Event?

Celebrate milestones like graduations, pep rallies, or fundraisers with balloons printed with your school’s logo or mascot. They’re great for building school spirit and creating photo-worthy moments.

You might also need:

Custom lanyards and ID holders for staff and students
School spirit wear like t-shirts and hats
Promotional items for education to support your school’s goals

Tip: Use balloon arches to frame entrances or stages for a festive, professional look.

Hosting a Concert or Sporting Event?

Add energy and excitement with helium balloons in your team’s colors or event theme. Oversized foil balloons can double as signage or stage decor.

You might also need:

Branded foam fingers, rally towels, or LED wristbands
Custom drinkware or koozies for fans and guests
Event branding tips to make your event unforgettable

Tip: Use balloons to highlight VIP areas or merchandise booths.

Throwing a Party or Special Celebration?

Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, or baby shower, custom balloons let you add names, dates, or messages that make your event feel personal and unique.

You might also need:

Personalized party favors or photo booth props
Custom candles, glassware, or keepsake boxes
Creative gift ideas for your guests

Tip: Mix latex and foil balloons in your color scheme for a layered, elegant look.

Promoting Your Retail Store or Local Business?

Use helium balloons to draw attention to your storefront, announce a sale, or celebrate a grand opening. They’re a cost-effective way to create a festive vibe and get noticed.

You might also need: