Foil Balloons

Yes. They are two names for the same balloon. It is made from a thin nylon sheet coated in metallic foil, and Mylar is a brand name for that material that became the everyday word for it, the way people say Kleenex for tissue. Retailers use both terms interchangeably, so a foil balloon and a mylar balloon are the same product. Neither is the same as a latex balloon, which is rubber, stretches as it fills, and holds helium for a much shorter time.

Foil balloons hold their helium far longer than latex, often several days to a week or more when filled well and kept out of heat and direct sun. Air-filled foil balloons, like those in a garland, can last even longer since they are not relying on helium.

Use number balloons to mark an age or anniversary and letter balloons to spell a name or a message. Hang them on a wall as a backdrop, float them above the dessert table, or prop them on a mantel. They can be filled with helium to float or with air to mount flat. Sizes vary by style, so check each product page before ordering for a specific look.