Filling your own helium balloons at home is easier and cheaper than most people expect, and you can do it the morning of the party instead of collecting them from a shop. But not all disposable helium canisters are the same. Here's what to check before you buy one in the UK.
1. What the balloon count is based on
Almost every canister is rated in standard 9-inch latex balloons. If you're using 12-inch latex, foil shapes or letters and numbers, you'll fill far fewer. Our guide How Many Balloons Does a Helium Tank Fill? has the full breakdown for each Airloons size.
2. Your balloon mix
Plan your balloons first, then choose the canister. One 36-inch foil balloon uses the helium of roughly 25 latex balloons, so a couple of big foils can change which size you need.
3. Helium purity
Some party tanks contain a helium and air blend. Purer helium gives more lift, so balloons float better and for longer. Every Airloons canister is filled with 99.95% purified helium.
4. An easy-fill nozzle
Look for a nozzle that screws on by hand and fills with a simple press. Using an Airloons canister takes four steps:
- Pull off the valve cap on top of the canister.
- Screw the easy-fill nozzle onto the valve, clockwise, until tight.
- Place the balloon neck over the nozzle tip and press down firmly.
- Inflate until the balloon feels firm, then release and tie.
Watch it in action on our How To Use page.
5. How it's delivered
Helium canisters contain compressed gas, so in the UK they can't be sent by Royal Mail or through the Post Office. Check how a seller delivers before you rely on it for a party date. Airloons UK orders ship from our Bournemouth fulfilment centre with Yodel or InPost and usually arrive within 3 days.
6. Disposal and recycling
Disposable canisters are single-use. When yours is empty, press the nozzle until no more gas comes out. Never puncture, crush or burn it, even when empty. Empty canisters can usually be recycled as scrap metal; check with your local council or household waste recycling centre. More on our Recycling & Storage page.
A few safety basics
- Helium canisters are for filling balloons only. Never inhale helium.
- Keep canisters away from children, heat and direct sunlight, and store them upright.
- Use the canister within the shelf life printed on it.
Which Airloons canister is right for you?
- 30 balloons: small celebrations and balloon bouquets.
- 50 balloons: most birthdays and baby showers, with a built-in carry handle.
- 70 balloons: big parties, balloon ceilings and foil-heavy set-ups.
UK customers also have a 14-day right to cancel most orders (this doesn't apply once a canister has been unsealed or used, unless it's faulty). Questions? Email info@airloons.com and we'll help you pick the right size.