The HX Blog

If you've ever asked this question, you're not alone. The amount of helium needed to complete a job is sometimes difficult to determine. We provide a small chart on our website to guide customers toward the appropriate amount of helium. However, this chart assumes that all balloons being inflated are the same size. When you're dealing with a combination of different sizes of latex and foil balloons, you need more specific information. Thankfully, Qualatex has provided a chart which lists the helium capacity of most sizes and types of balloons. It's a great resource that makes calculating exactly how much helium is needed much easier. Next time you're inflating a wide variety of balloons, simply refer to this guide: Qualatex Helium Chart Remember that overinflating or underinflating will adjust the numbers shown. Ensuring you have some extra helium is always wise. Give yourself some wiggle room and consider popped balloons, as well as discrepancies in size...

These "glitter"-adorned balloons can add a touch of elegance and glamor to any function. They may look expensive (for a balloon anyway), but the good news is it's easy to re-create the popular trend for yourself. Adding the Sparkle All you need is soft, ultra thin foil confetti (make sure to avoid pointed or hard confetti), hi-float , balloons and helium . If you just want to add color, but don't necessarily want the glittery look, you can use any paper-based confetti, such as shredded tissue paper. The steps are as follows: pump hi-float into balloon, massage balloon to evenly coat the side of the balloon with product, pour confetti into the balloon, inflate, shake or whirl the balloon around to disperse the confetti and enjoy! One benefit of using hi-float to add "glitter" to balloons is that it will lengthen the float life of the balloon. After all, if you go through the trouble of creating custom balloons, why not enjoy them longer? The second be...

What are they? Well, we liken them to beach balls on a stick. They're composed of vinyl and are inflated with air. That's right, no helium required. We've seen them pop up at apartment complexes, car lots and storefronts. We get asked about these "balloons" from time to time, so let us review the pros and cons of purchasing and using these so-called balloons. At first glance, they sound like an efficient choice. They don't require helium so you can immediately suspend that expense. And they're reusable so you don't have to replace the balloons on a regular basis. Another perk would be that employees, office managers and store owners do not have to spend time inflating balloons on a daily or weekly basis. You can expect to spend around $30 per balloon if you're shopping from the cheaper end of the spectrum. However, this will include the pole, clamps, and other assembly items needed for that balloon. Various options are available regarding the...

It's no secret, in our industry, that helium is used to fill party balloons for decorative purposes. And, as we all know, balloons float as a result of helium being lighter than air. However, most people don't realize where helium comes from or how it's used outside of the party industry. Helium is formed by decay of radioactive elements and is extracted as a byproduct of natural gas. Many may be aware of the helium shortage from a couple years ago, and it's said another 'shortage' may be around the corner. Luckily, a new helium source was recently discovered and this should help with future supply. Keep in mind that it will take time to allocate the resources and draw up contracts with different helium manufacturers. So how is helium used? Well, besides making balloons float, helium is widely used in the medical, meteorological and laser technology sectors, to name a few. MRI machines use helium to cool the superconducting magnets. Meteorological balloons ...

If you've looked at our information chart on helium rentals and come to the realization that you simply don't need to inflate that many balloons, then you may want to purchase them inflated. We do not deliver inflated balloons, but we can sell them to you assuming you have a vehicle that will accommodate your desired amount. Likewise, we can also inflate balloons you have purchased elsewhere. However, if you plan on buying and transporting inflated balloons. please plan accordingly. Think Float Life For starters, keep in mind that balloons have a finite lifespan, or " float life ." However, as a general rule, latex balloons should not be inflated any earlier than the event date. There are exceptions such as 36" latex balloons, which will still be up from one day to the next (though smaller in size). Alternatively, foil balloons may be inflated days in advance with little to no change as they float longer. As of now, we are closed on weekends. If your ev...

As recently noted in another post, 'balloons on a stick' can be great substitutes in many situations. And while most people are familiar with the balloons, not many people know how to actually use them. It's easy to assume that they are inflated with helium, but some may be surprised to know that they are aren't intended for use with helium at all! In fact, they're quite different in a few aspects. Inflate So how does one inflate these small balloons? Well, quite simply, with air. The means by which this is done, however, is a matter of preference. You can use one of a myriad of air inflator options, from a simple and economical hand pump to a heavy duty electric inflator. Once you determine how frequently you intend to do this and locate an suitable inflator, you'll notice that the air doesn't stay inside the balloon by itself like it does with helium foil balloons. Because they are not self-sealing, you'll also need a heat sealer. Seal ...

Balloons come in a variety of shapes and sizes. And for the sake of making a grand gesture, most people like to give and decorate with larger size balloons. It's a valid reason and they do make quite an impression, but 'miniloons' can be just as dramatic and, in some cases, more suitable. What are 'miniloons'? In short, they're small foil balloons. Their sizes are usually described as 2", 4", 9" or 14", but there are many variations in between. One of the things that sets them apart from other balloons is that they are not intended for use with helium. Instead, they are to be inflated with air or nitrogen. As a result, these balloons will not float. While some may not be particularly fond of this, it does present some other notable advantages. If you're decorating outside, you may find that larger helium balloons (foil or latex) will move around quite a bit, particularly on windy days. Depending on the placement of the balloon ...

Okay, maybe it's not cold yet, but it's certainly less hot! And on some particularly cool mornings, we'll be seeing an interesting effect on balloons. At the risk of sounding a little too scientific, let's explain. The Science In short, balloons will appear to shrivel up in the cold while they tend to expand in the heat. The reason is due to a density change of the molecules. (We warned you things may get a little scientific!) Cold weather makes the molecules more dense, which causes them to move around more slowly and within a smaller space. Because latex balloons are elastic, they will appear to "shrink" in extreme cold as the latex gives way to the smaller area of movement within. Foil balloons do not have the elasticity latex balloons do, but will appear to shrivel up as the foil around the unused space crinkles upon itself. As you can probably already guess, heat has the opposite effect. In this case, the molecules become less dense and begin to move...

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you have more things to do than time allows for? Yeah, we have too. When it comes to decorating with balloons, many people find there's a bit of a timing issue. You don't want to inflate too soon before the event because you need enough time to inflate them all. On the other hand, you don't want to inflate them too early and prevent the balloons from looking their best during the event. The best time to start decorating with balloons will always vary a little, depending on the quantity and size of the balloons used. If you're utilizing hi-float, this will also play an important factor. The first step in deciding when to start your balloon filling is knowing how long it will take to inflate the balloons. You can then backtrack to determine a good time to start. The second step is knowing the float life of the balloons you're going to inflate so that you don't inflate too early. Read more about the float life of ...

Warmer weather makes way for more outdoor activities. These activities can include cookouts, birthday parties, graduations and summer luaus! Sometimes these gatherings can be quite large and you can find great deals on bulk party supplies. Other times, these parties are considerably smaller. Many packages of balloons contain 50 to 100 balloons and helium is typically bottled in large cylinders capable of inflating anywhere from 100-400 balloons! While that's great for large events, it's not the most cost-efficient option for smaller guest lists. We'd like to present you with a great, inexpensive option for small events, where just a pop of color is needed.  Available from Helium Xpress Balloon Wholesale for $39.95! This disposable helium tank by Balloon Time is lightweight, portable and convenient for any small party! Packaged, this kit weighs in just under 10 pounds and includes helium and a spool of white ribbon to get you sta...

That Funny Voice: Inhaling Helium Everyone knows the high-pitch voice that results from inhaling helium. Kids and adults alike have enjoyed this activity with many laughs. While it's all in good fun, inhaling helium can be dangerous. As we approach the summer months, kids' parties and events increase in number and there is more exposure to helium and balloons. However, it's important to keep certain things in mind as we want everyone to safely enjoy these party staples. When inhaled, helium displaces the oxygen in our lungs. While inhaling helium from a balloon is generally non-threatening, it can be dangerous if too much is inhaled. Because you're losing oxygen with each inhalation, you may even begin to feel lightheaded. If you feel any lightheadedness or dizziness, stop immediately. People have fainted from this activity, which is why  we strongly advise against it . Unfortunately, there have been helium-related deaths when inhaled from a...

Customers always ask how long balloons last. This is sometimes difficult to answer as many variables can impact a balloon's float life. However, the answer is essential to party planning. Helium-filled balloons float due to the simple fact that helium is lighter than air. Because latex balloons are porous, helium slowly seeps through the pores. As less helium is left in the balloon, the balloon decreases in size and simultaneously floats lower to the ground until there is no longer a sufficient amount to keep the balloon afloat. The typical indoor float life of 12" latex balloons is 10-12 hours. If outdoors, this float life can be expected to decrease by at least half. Part of the reason a balloon doesn't float as long outdoors is due to temperature. The hotter it is, the more susceptible the balloon is to popping. In contrast, balloons typically contract in extreme cold, which decreases the size of the balloon. Ceilings that are texturized or have abrasive surfaces ...