Balloon Garland Calculator

Based on UK event-decorator guidance, a standard double-row garland uses about 18 balloons per metre, and a full organic style with mixed sizes uses about 25 per metre. So a 3-metre organic garland needs roughly 75 balloons, while a 3-metre standard garland needs about 54 - plus a 15% spares allowance for pops and duds. Smaller 5-inch balloons pack more densely (so you need more of them per metre), while large 16-inch balloons fill the space with fewer.

Most balloon garlands are air-filled and attached to a frame strip or fishing line, so helium is not needed. This is much cheaper and the garland lasts longer (days vs hours). Helium is only needed if you want floating balloon arches without a frame.

Air-filled garlands last 3-5 days indoors. Outdoors, heat and UV reduce this to 1-2 days. Helium-filled garlands start drooping within 8-12 hours for standard latex balloons. Make the garland the day before or morning of your event.

An organic garland uses balloons of different sizes (5 inch, 11 inch, 16 inch) in clusters, creating a flowing, natural look. This uses more balloons per metre but creates the most impressive visual effect. It is the most popular style on social media.