Parties aren’t complete without balloons, and one of the most popular materials used for creating colourful balloons is latex. Indeed, latex balloons have been a prominent birthday decoration for decades. Aside from birthdays, you can find latex balloons on a variety of occasions, such as weddings, anniversaries, graduations, and more.
However, did you know that there are plenty of interesting facts about latex balloons? From their unique properties to their beneficial use, here are some of the most fun facts about latex balloons that’ll surely pique your interest.
1. Latex is derived from trees
Have you ever thought about where your balloons come from? The answer is that it’s derived from rubber trees primarily found in tropical countries! Latex is a milky sap that’s collected by cutting the bark of trees and allowing the latex to drip and gather in buckets. The liquid collected is then combined with other substances to make the material used in balloons. Don’t worry, though; extracting latex doesn’t damage the tree at all.
2. Latex balloons burst at 26,000 feet
Ever been so worried that you started thinking of ways to prevent your latex balloon from popping? Well, if you release a latex balloon into the wild, the good news is that it’ll fly up, up, and away! And once it reaches the height of 26,000 feet, the balloons will freeze and break into millions of pieces that’ll scatter onto the earth. These particles may be eaten by animals and fish without being harmed. In terms of how flexible these balloons are, an average latex balloon can be stretched up to 800% of its initial size without shattering. As such, there’s no need to worry about these balloons bursting, as the chances are that they are going to be just fine.
3. Latex balloons can be filled with different types of gas
You can fill latex balloons with different types of gas, such as regular air, helium, and even water. The kind of gas used will have an impact on the way the balloon behaves and how long it will remain inflated. For instance, if you make use of helium gas, it’ll cause your balloon to float and have a longer inflation time compared to regular balloons.
4. Latex balloons are ideal for science experiments
Latex balloons have the ability to conduct electricity. For this reason, they’re often utilised in static electricity experiments performed in science classrooms. To carry out this type of experiment, you’ll need two latex balloons, a light thread or string, wool fabric, an empty aluminium can, and gift tissue paper. Here’s what you should do:
- Blow up the two balloons and tie a light thread to each of them.
- Hold one balloon by the thread and bring it close to every material (i.e., the second balloon, the aluminium can, and the tissue paper). Take a look at what occurs next to the second balloon, next to the aluminium can, and next to the tissue paper.
- Rub both balloons onto the wool fabric or onto your hair.
- Hold a balloon by the thread and bring it close to every material. Take a look at what happens. You may need to rub the balloon onto the wool fabric or your hair again after a couple of minutes.
- Bring the balloon close to a stream of water from your kitchen sink and observe what happens.
5. Latex balloons are eco-friendly
Contrary to what many people assume, latex balloons are fully eco-friendly since they are made of all-natural substances. Because rubber grows on trees, harvesting latex helps to minimise deforestation. Moreover, latex balloons are 100% biodegradable. This means that they can naturally break down in water or sunlight. As a matter of fact, under proper environmental conditions, latex balloons deteriorate at the same rate as oak tree leaves!
Conclusion
There are many interesting facts about latex balloons that make them a truly fun addition to any birthday balloon decoration. Overall, latex balloons are among the most popular and varied balloons that can do as much for your party decor as they do for the environment. So, for your next parties, be sure to use latex balloons for some added fun and fascination!
Here at Funlah, we provide various colourful latex balloons perfect for decorations or gifts. Aside from this, we also offer beautiful balloon bouquets ideal for every occasion, whether it be birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, or holidays. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to find out more about our product offerings.
