FAQs: How Long Will My Balloons Last Outdoors? Everything You Need to Know About Balloon Decorations & Outdoor Events
Planning a backyard bash or party? Balloon Zoom can put everything from balloon arches and columns to balloon walls and organic garlands outdoors. But the look and lifespan of balloons and balloon decor are affected by heat, humidity, sunlight, wind, and rain. Here's what you need to know when ordering balloon decorations for your Washington DC celebration!
1. BALLOONS WILL BECOME VELVETY & MATTE OUTSIDE
All balloons, even balloons with 'matte' in their name (such as Pastel Pink Matte latex, are shiny when they're first inflated. In an air-conditioned room, balloons can retain their shine for multiple days. Outside, balloons will oxidize and lose their shine, developing a soft, velvety or matte appearance. On a sunny or humid summer day, this can happen almost immediately.
2. BALLOONS DO BEST IN SHADE
Balloons actually love the cold weather. Air-filled balloon decor (our specialty) can be long-lasting outdoors in cool temperatures -- even snow! Heat, on the other hand, weakens latex, and may cause some balloons to pop. Choosing a shady or sheltered spot for your balloons, whether it's winter or summer, can slow oxidation (helping them retain their shine), and increase their lifespan, by protecting them from direct sunlight and extreme heat. Consider placing a balloon arch or balloon garland on a covered porch or patio, or a balloon wall beneath a large shade tree, instead of in the middle of a vast, sunny yard.
3. LIGHT COLORS ARE THE BEST CHOICE FOR OUTDOOR BALLOON DECOR
When choosing balloon colors for outdoor events, think about what colors you yourself would wear. Most of us would wear a white t-shirt over a black one to a DC Fourth of July barbecue, because black absorbs heat. The same holds true for balloons! Black and other dark-colored balloon (dark green, dark blue, dark brown) will absorb more heat, and may pop. White balloons, or light-colored balloons, such as pale pinks or blues, for example, will be less affected by the heat, and last longer.
Need more help choosing the right combination of balloon arches, balloon columns, centerpieces or other balloon decor for your outdoor event in Washington DC, Maryland or Virginia? Take a look at our catalogs, then contact us to talk about your event!
