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Types of Party Balloons: Latex, Foil, Bobo and Helium Explained
Types of party balloons compared: latex, foil, bobo and helium, with float times, costs and what each is best for.
Types of Party Balloons: Latex, Foil, Bobo and Helium Explained
Quick answer: Use latex balloons for garlands and arches (cheap, air-filled, 2–4 weeks), foil balloons for numbers and letters (float 3–7 days), bobo balloons for a premium clear look, and helium only when balloons must float (8–12 hours).
Key takeaways
- Latex: cheapest, best for garlands; air-filled lasts 2–4 weeks.
- Foil: numbers and letters; floats 3–7 days.
- Bobo: clear, premium look; usually air-filled.
- Helium: only for floating; latex floats just 8–12 hours.
What are the different types of party balloons?
There are four main types: latex (the classic rubber balloon), foil or mylar (metallic, shaped and number balloons), bobo (clear, round, often used for a premium look) and helium balloons (any balloon filled with helium so it floats). Each suits a different job.
Balloon types compared
| Type | Best for | Float time | Cost each |
|---|---|---|---|
| Latex (11-inch) | Garlands, arches, columns | Air 2–4 weeks / helium 8–12 hrs | $0.10–0.30 |
| Latex (5-inch) | Filling gaps in garlands | Air 2–4 weeks | $0.05–0.15 |
| Foil / mylar | Numbers, letters, shapes | 3–7 days | $1–4 |
| Bobo (clear) | Premium displays, confetti-filled | Air weeks / helium 1–3 days | $0.60–1.50 |
| Foil number | Birthdays and milestones | 3–7 days | $2–5 |
What are latex balloons best for?
Latex balloons are best for garlands, arches, columns and table clusters. They are the cheapest option, come in every colour and size, and last 2–4 weeks when filled with air. Use 11-inch balloons for the structure and 5-inch balloons to fill gaps.
What are foil balloons best for?
Foil balloons are best for numbers, letters and shaped balloons — a “21” or “50”, a name, or a star. They float for 3–7 days, far longer than latex, and they hold their shape and shine better in photos.
What are bobo balloons?
Bobo balloons are clear, round balloons that give a modern, premium look. They are usually filled with air and decorated with confetti, feathers or LED lights inside. They last weeks air-filled, and 1–3 days if helium-filled.
Do I need helium?
Only if the balloon must float on its own. Helium costs $1–2 per balloon and latex only floats for 8–12 hours, so use air for garlands, arches and columns and save helium for bouquets, ceilings and “string of pearls” designs.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main types of party balloons?
Latex, foil (mylar), bobo (clear) and helium-filled. Latex is the cheapest and best for garlands, foil suits numbers and letters, bobo gives a premium clear look, and helium is used when balloons need to float.
Are foil or latex balloons better?
Foil balloons last far longer — 3–7 days floating against 8–12 hours for helium latex — and hold their shape better. Latex is cheaper and comes in more sizes, which makes it better for garlands and arches.
What are bobo balloons used for?
Bobo balloons are clear round balloons used for premium displays. They are typically air-filled and decorated with confetti, feathers or LED lights inside, and last for weeks when air-filled.
Shop balloons: browse our balloons for latex, foil, bobo and number balloons, or read helium vs air balloons.
