A standard balloon arch made with properly inflated latex balloons will last anywhere from 12 hours to 2 days without any significant issues. The lower number represents an arch closer to a doorway where outside heat and humidity are being introduced regularly.
UPDATED 10/9: I received some questions about how far in advance you can inflate the balloons. You can blow them up 1-2 days before and keep the garland indoors (the heat causes them to shrink) until your party. A lot of the balloons will stay inflated much longer but they will look the best this way!
Generally speaking, yes. Air-filled latex or foil balloons will not deflate overnight, especially when the arch, column or garland is indoors. Even an outdoor arch or column will last overnight. … This can cause balloons to fuse together when the sun comes out.
Blowing Up Balloons – Hints & Tips on How To Best Fill Your Party Balloons
| Balloon | Inflated Diameter | Float-Time |
|---|---|---|
| 11" Latex | 11" | 10-12 hrs |
| 18" Foil | 14" x 13" | 3-5 days |
| 20" Foil (Str) | 18" x 18" | 3-5 days |
| Giant Letter & Number | Various | 3-5 days |
If you want to do your helium-filled arch the night before the event, I highly recommend you treat your balloons with hi-float. If you are planning to do an air-filled arch, then it's fine to create the arch the day before.
If you're making a garland with room air, a balloon garland will last at least a week. So feel free to make it a few days before your party so you can focus on other things day-of.
How to Keep Latex Balloons Longer
We like to use 3M Command hooks on the wall. These hooks are great because they stick on and come off the walls in our studios very easily and with no (zilch!) damage to our walls. Command hooks are available in a wide range of designs to match your individual style and décor.
Helium-filled foil or Mylar balloons will stay afloat for about three to four days. In fact, there are certain balloon brands that will stay inflated up to three weeks. … Air-filled balloons do not float.