Question from Becky
Do balloons contain toxic or hazardous substances that are harmful to children?
Debra’s Answer
There are basically two types of balloons that are commonly purchased for parties or gifts.
The old-fashioned rubber balloons that stretch and come in bright colors are made of natural latex tapped from rubber trees
The more modern shiny balloons come from the NASA Space Mission. In the balloon industry they are called “foil balloons” because they are made of a nylon sheet, coated on one side with polyethylene and a thin layer of metal on the other side.
Neither of these types of balloons have materials that are particularly toxic.
My only concern is that many people are allergic to latex. And I don’t know what type of colorant or inks are use. These may contain heavy metals.
So as long as your children don’t chew on them, and they are not allergic to latex, I think balloons are fine.
