Last Updated on June 1, 2023 by Kimberlee Johnson
Air-filled balloons are a popular choice when decorating outdoor events or simply adding a touch of whimsy to your backyard.
But how long do air filled balloons last outside? As someone who loves balloons, I’ve spent much time testing them in different weather.
Today, I’ll give my insights so you can know what to expect when you put balloons outside. Read on.
How Long Do Air-Filled Balloons Last In The Outdoors?
Air-filled balloons can last up to three to four days outdoors [1]. The weather is the primary factor affecting the length of time a balloon will stay afloat.
Warmer temperatures and higher humidity can cause air-filled balloons to deflate quickly, while cooler temperatures and lower humidity can extend their life.
Additionally, high winds can cause balloons to pop or fly away, so it is best to keep them in a sheltered area if possible. But how long do balloons made of foil last?
Will Balloons Loaded With Air Endure Two Weeks?
Balloons filled with air can endure periods of as long as two weeks.
The material of the balloon will play a significant role in how long it lasts, with latex balloons generally lasting much longer than mylar balloons.
Latex balloons can typically stay inflated for up to two weeks, providing that the temperature is not too hot and the air is not too humid.
“The man who goes up in a balloon does not feel as if he were ascending; he only sees the earth sinking deeper below him.”
Arthur Schopenhauer, German Philosopher
However, the size of the balloon and the amount of air inside will determine how long it will stay inflated.
The amount of air inside the balloon will also affect the amount of time that it will stay inflated.
If the balloon is filled with too much air, it can become overstretched and pop much sooner than expected.
On the other hand, if the balloon is only partially filled with air, it may not be able to stay inflated for the full two weeks.
But how long can foil helium balloons from Party City last?
Does Cold Weather Cause Air-Filled Balloons To Deflate?
When the weather gets cold, air-filled balloons tend to deflate—the air molecules inside the balloon contract when the temperature drops.
As the molecules contract, the air pressure inside the balloon decreases, and the balloon deflates.
Cold weather [2] can cause balloons to deflate overnight if the temperature drops significantly.
To prevent balloons from deflating due to cold temperatures, keeping them away from drafts or open windows is important.
Additionally, it is important to check the balloons regularly to ensure they are properly inflated.
If necessary, the balloons can be re-inflated if they have begun to deflate due to cold temperatures.
How Long Can Air-Filled Balloons Withstand The Heat Outside?
The answer can change based on the kind of balloon you’re using and the climate at the time.
Latex balloons filled with air typically last anywhere from 12-24 hours in direct sunlight, depending on the temperature and humidity.
Mylar balloons filled with air can last up to around 24 hours or two days, but the extreme heat can cause them to burst or sag more quickly.
In all cases, it’s best to keep balloons away from direct sunlight, extreme heat, and humid conditions whenever possible.
Or plan outdoor events in the morning or evening when the temperature is cooler, or keep the balloons in a shaded area.
How Do You Prevent Air-Filled Balloons From Deflating?
The first step in preventing air-filled balloons from deflating is ensuring the balloon is properly inflated.
Using a pump or air compressor to inflate the balloon is one of the more effective approaches.
It is important to ensure the balloon is not over-inflated, as this can cause it to burst.
“Air-filled balloons love the great outdoors, even if they don’t last as long. They dance in the wind, creating a lively atmosphere for a limited time before slowly losing air and returning to earth.”
Howkapow Gift Site
Additionally, use the right type of balloon for the job, as latex balloons tend to be more durable than foil balloons.
Another way to prevent air-filled balloons from deflating is to use a balloon sealant. This type of product can be sprayed on the balloon after it is inflated.
The sealant will help hold the air in the balloon for longer. If you want to use a sealant on a balloon without damaging it, read the manufacturer’s directions first.
Read:
- How Many Balloons Are Required To Create A Balloon Arch?
- How Long Does A Balloon Arch Take To Construct?
- How Do I Make Air-Filled Balloons Last Longer?
FAQs
How long do balloons remain if inflated by mouth?
Balloons inflated by mouth will typically stay inflated for approximately 2 to 5 days, depending on the size and type of balloon, such as helium.
When inflated by mouth, latex balloons normally last a day, while foil balloons can remain inflated for up to a week.
How long will latex balloons last if they don’t have helium?
Latex balloons will generally last around 24 hours or longer if not filled with helium. Without helium, the balloons will eventually become limp and lose shape as the air escapes.
Find out how long a latex balloon will survive when filled with the air here.
At what temperature do balloons stay inflated longer?
Balloons generally stay inflated longest when filled with helium and kept at temperatures between 72 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit.
What temperature causes balloons to start to lose air?
When the temperature reaches around 45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the air pressure inside the balloon becomes lower than the external pressure, causing the balloon to start to deflate.
Key Takeaways
Overall, air-filled balloons can last up to several weeks outside, depending on the weather conditions.
In any case, keep an eye on the balloons and check them frequently to ensure the weather hasn’t harmed them.
With proper care, air-filled balloons can last long and make a great addition to any outdoor event.
References:
- https://www.healthline.com/health/health-benefits-of-being-outdoors
- https://www.businessinsider.com/10-surprising-health-benefits-of-cold-weather-2018-2
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