How to Inflate and Seal Baby Shower Balloons with Tassels
By Ginger Ray | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the correct steps to inflate and seal baby shower balloons with tassels, including tips for Big Brother and Baby Girl designs, and avoid common mistakes.
Quick Answer
Inflate your baby shower balloon with a hand pump or helium, then tie a tight knot close to the base. Slide the tassel loop over the knot and pull it snug against the balloon neck to keep it secure without damaging the latex.
Why Tassel Balloons Need Extra Care
Tassel balloons add a festive touch to baby showers, but the tassel itself can shift or slip off if not attached correctly. The tassel loop must sit firmly around the knot, not the inflated balloon body, to avoid tearing the latex.
Latex balloons, especially 18-inch ones like the Big Brother Balloon with Blue Tassels, are sensitive to overinflation. Inflate until the balloon is firm but not stretched thin, as overstretching weakens the seal and increases the risk of popping.
Helium vs Air: What Works Best
Helium makes the balloon float, which is ideal for ceiling arrangements or centerpieces. Air is better for balloon arches, walls, or floor displays where you want the balloon to stay put.
Both methods work with tassel balloons, but helium requires a tighter knot because the gas escapes faster than air. If using helium, tie the knot as close to the balloon neck as possible and test the seal before attaching the tassel.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Inflate the Balloon: Use a hand pump or helium tank to inflate the balloon until it is firm but not stretched thin. Stop when the latex feels taut but still has a slight give. Overinflation makes the balloon prone to popping and shortens its lifespan. If the balloon develops a thin, translucent spot, you have overinflated it. Let out a little air and retie.
- Tie a Secure Knot: Pinch the balloon neck between your thumb and forefinger, then wrap the neck around your index and middle fingers. Pull the end through the loop and tighten the knot as close to the inflated body as possible. A loose knot allows gas to leak. For helium balloons, double-knotting adds extra security against slow leaks.
- Attach the Tassel: Slide the tassel's elastic loop over the knot and push it down until it sits snugly against the balloon neck. Do not pull the loop over the inflated area, as the elastic can cut into the latex and cause a slow leak. If the tassel feels loose, tie a second small knot on the balloon neck to create a ridge that holds the loop in place.
- Adjust and Display: Gently fluff the tassel strands with your fingers so they hang evenly. For helium balloons, attach a ribbon or balloon weight to the knot before adding the tassel to keep the balloon from floating away. Check the tassel position after an hour—if it has shifted, re-seat it to prevent the balloon from deflating unevenly.
Balloons That Work Well with Tassels
- Big Brother Balloon with Blue Tassels: The Big Brother Balloon with Blue Tassels is an 18-inch latex balloon printed on both sides, sold as a single balloon. Its generous size gives you enough neck length to tie a secure knot without crowding the printed design, and the blue tassel complements the cream latex for a clean big-reveal look.
Big Brother Balloon with Blue Tassels - It's a Baby Girl Balloon- 5 Inner Pack: The It's a Baby Girl Balloon is an 18-inch latex balloon sold in a 5-pack, part of the Oh Baby collection. Having multiple balloons lets you practice the tassel attachment on the first one, and the matching collection makes it easy to coordinate with other decorations.
It's a Baby Girl Balloon- 5 Inner Pack
