If you’ve ever wondered how professional balloon artists make latex balloons float for days—or even weeks—instead of just hours, the secret weapon is HI-FLOAT.
This magical liquid solution coats the inside of a latex balloon, creating a barrier that traps helium and drastically slows down how fast it escapes. But to get those stunning, long-lasting results for your DIY party decor, you have to use it right.
Here is a simple, step-by-step guide on how to apply HI-FLOAT like an expert for your next celebration!
What You’ll Need
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Ultra HI-FLOAT solution with a pump dispenser
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The correct size restriction clip for your balloons (color-coded based on balloon size, like 11” or 16”)
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High-quality latex balloons
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Helium tank or inflator
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Safety glasses (always a smart idea when inflating treated balloons!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prep Your Pump: Attach the pump securely to your HI-FLOAT bottle. If it’s your first time using it, pump a few times into a cup or paper towel until the liquid flows smoothly. Snap the correct color-coded restriction clip onto the pump nozzle to ensure you dispense just the right amount of solution for your balloon size.
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Load the Balloon: Slide the uninflated balloon all the way onto the pump nozzle so the opening reaches the base. This ensures the liquid is injected deep inside the balloon rather than getting stuck in the neck.
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Pump the Solution: Depress the pump plunger completely down once (or according to your balloon size guidelines). While removing the balloon, pinch the neck slightly and use it to wipe the nozzle clean, keeping the outside and the very lip of the balloon free of sticky residue.
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Massage and Spread: Hold the balloon opening upward so it doesn't drip, and gently massage the outside of the balloon for a few seconds. This spreads the liquid evenly across the inner walls. Pro tip: Make sure you keep the solution out of the balloon stem—if the neck gets sticky, it will be messy to tie later!
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Inflate and Tie: Inflate the balloon with helium to its proper, full pear shape (avoid under-inflating, or it won't float upright!). Hand-tie the balloon securely with ribbon.
Quick DIY Tips for Success
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Give It Time to Dry: ULTRA HI-FLOAT takes a few hours to dry completely after inflation. Keep freshly inflated balloons away from delicate walls, ceilings, or fabrics during this drying window.
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Pearl and Metallic Adjustments: These types of latex balloons have heavier compositions, so you may want to use slightly less solution to ensure they float high and proud.
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Watch Out for Humidity: High humidity can slow down the drying process. If you're prepping balloons on a super humid day, give them extra time to dry indoors before your event.
With a little bit of practice, adding HI-FLOAT to your routine will change your DIY balloon game forever. Say goodbye to deflated party decor and hello to floating masterpieces that last!