This helium chart will help you figure out how much helium you need to inflate your balloons, when to inflate them, and how heavy your weights need to be to tie them down. Please note that this chart is based on averages, and float times can be shortened by not following the tips below.

How to Get Maximum Floating Time Out of Your Balloons

  • Inflate your balloon to full capacity (use a measuring tape to measure the height).
  • Inflate your balloons as close to the event as possible. Balloons look best when they're fresh. Confetti balloons will start to look cloudy overnight.
  • This chart is based on filling your balloons with pure helium. Many helium tanks are diluted with air which shortens float time. Helium tanks diluted with air are ideal for confetti balloons, since air helps the confetti stick to the sides.
  • Keep balloons at room temperature (around 70°F, 21°C)
  • Avoid sharp objects and fluctuations in temperature. Heat causes helium to expand, and is a common culprit of burst balloons. Do not place your balloons near a heat source such as a ceiling light, heater, fireplace, or in a hot car.
Latex Balloons
Balloon Size (height) Helium Capacity Average Float Time* Lift Ability
5 inch solid Will Not Float Will Not Float 0
11 inch solid 0.5 cu ft (.015m3) 16-18 hours 0.35 oz. (10g)
12 inch confetti-filled 0.52 cu ft (.015m3) 6 hours 0.24 oz. (6.9g)
16 inch confetti-filled 1.5 cu ft (.042m3) 12 hours 1.02 oz. (29g)
18 inch confetti-filled 2 cu ft (.056m3) 20 hours 1.62 oz. (46g)
30 inch solid 8 cu ft (.226m3) 3-5 days 6.5 oz. (184g)
36 inch solid 15 cu ft (.425m3) 3-5 days 12 oz. (339g)
36 inch confetti-filled 15 cu ft (.425m3) 3-5 days 11.5 oz. (326g)
*Because the filling and usage of display balloons is beyond our control, no performance or longevity guarantee can be made.