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Balloon Size Guide

Balloon size decides everything: how a display reads across a room, how much helium you need, and how many balloons it takes to fill a space. This guide compares every size we stock, from 5in pack-fillers to giant 36in statement balloons, so you buy the right ones the first time.

Sizes at a glance

Common latex sizes, shown to scale.
  • 5in latex - pack fillers, table scatter and small clusters. Air-fill only, they do not hold helium well.
  • 9in to 12in latex - the everyday party balloon, good for helium and for garlands.
  • 18in foil - shaped foils, hearts and stars that need to look crisp.
  • Giant 36in latex and number balloons - statement pieces and photo backdrops.

How many do I need?

As a rough guide: a small table cluster is 3 to 5 balloons, an arch or garland is roughly 30 to 50 per metre depending on the mix of sizes, and a ceiling of floating balloons is around 30 to 40 for an average room. Mixing two or three sizes always looks fuller than a single size.

Frequently asked questions

What size balloon is best for helium?

Stick to 11in or 12in latex and 18in or larger foils. Anything smaller than 9in will not float for long.

How big is a number balloon?

Our giant foil numbers stand around 34in to 36in tall, which is why they work so well as a centrepiece or backdrop.

Ready to shop? Browse all balloons, or jump to latex, number balloons and arches & garlands.