Party Balloon Calculator — Balloons, Helium & Cost Estimator

For a 40 m² room with moderate decoration, you will need approximately 40 standard latex balloons. For a lavish display with ceiling clusters and table centrepieces, this rises to around 80 balloons. Minimal decoration for entrances and focal points requires around 20. Taller ceilings increase the count slightly.

Each standard 28 cm (11 inch) latex balloon uses approximately 14 litres of helium. For 50 balloons you need around 700 litres. A small disposable helium canister holds about 230 litres (0.23 cubic metres) and inflates roughly 30 × 9 inch or 14 to 16 × 11 inch latex balloons, so 50 balloons would need two or three canisters. A standard hire cylinder holds around 1,000 litres and covers about 70 latex balloons.

A standard 28 cm (11 inch) latex balloon floats for 8 to 12 hours as a conservative estimate for ordinary balloons in typical indoor conditions; the Qualatex helium chart quotes up to 24 hours for an untreated premium 11 inch latex balloon. Treat them with Ultra Hi-Float sealant to extend float time to several days. Foil balloons float for 3 to 5 days. Giant 90 cm latex balloons float for around 12 to 24 hours. Inflate latex balloons on the morning of the event for best results.

Latex balloons are the most affordable and versatile — great for garlands, arches and clusters. Foil balloons hold their shape and helium longer, making them ideal for floating centrepieces and number displays. Giant balloons (90 cm+) create dramatic statement pieces but require far more helium per balloon.

No — many stunning balloon displays use air-filled balloons on frames, walls and garlands that do not float. Air-filled balloons last much longer (weeks rather than hours), are cheaper and do not require a helium supply. Only floating balloon arrangements require helium.