Does CVS Fill Helium Balloons in 2024? Everything You Need to Know
Planning a birthday party or special event? Chances are you‘ll want balloons to decorate and liven up the atmosphere. But finding a place that will fill balloons with helium can be a hassle. With CVS‘s huge selection of party supplies, it seems like it would be an ideal spot to get balloons filled up for your celebration.
So does CVS fill up helium balloons or not? Here‘s the complete guide on CVS‘s balloon policies, prices, and more.
CVS Helium Filling Policies
CVS will fill latex and foil (Mylar) balloons purchased in-store with helium for free. However, there are a few caveats:
CVS locations will not fill balloons purchased elsewhere with helium. You must buy the balloons at that CVS store to get the free filling.
Not all CVS stores offer helium filling. Many stand-alone locations have helium systems, but smaller pharmacy CVS stores inside Targets or other chains likely don‘t.
According to a CVS customer service representative, only about 60% of CVS stores provide helium filling services.
So it‘s best to call ahead to your local store and ask if they fill balloons before buying any.
CVS Balloon Selection
CVS sells a wide variety of solid color and printed latex balloons, foil balloons, balloon bouquets, and balloon arches perfect for parties.
Popular themes include:
- Licensed characters – Like Disney, Paw Patrol, Harry Potter, and more
- Solid colors – For coordinating with party themes
- Fun prints – Unicorns, spaceships, pirates, and other patterns kids love
CVS also carries punch ball balloons, water balloons, and balloon kits with air pumps for filling at home.
You can browse CVS‘s full balloon selection here.
Helium Filling Prices at Other Retailers
If your local CVS does not fill balloons with helium, here are average prices at other popular party supply stores:
| Store | Latex Balloon Price | Foil Balloon Price |
|---|---|---|
| Party City | $0.99 | $2.99 |
| Kroger | $1 | $2 |
| Albertsons | $3 | $5 |
| Dollar Tree | $1 | $1 |
Prices may vary by location. Call to confirm rates at your closest store.
As you can see, Party City and Dollar Tree tend to have the lowest helium filling fees.
Helium Shortage Impacting Balloon Sales
According to the Balloon Council, balloon sales at party supply stores have dropped up to 30% due to the global helium shortage.
Without enough helium to fill balloons, many retailers have had to cut back on balloon stock and filling services. This makes it harder for shoppers to find affordable helium inflation options.
Conclusion: Call Ahead to Confirm Helium Filling
CVS provides free helium filling for customers who purchase their balloons in-store – but the service is not guaranteed at every location.
Your best bet is to call the CVS store in advance and ask if they can inflate balloons. That way, you can ensure you get the decorations you need for a fun-filled party!
For anyone whose local CVS falls short on helium, check party supply stores like Party City and Dollar Tree where filling services are more reliably available.
With a little planning ahead, you‘ll be ready to throw an awesome birthday bash, anniversary soirée, or any special event complete with gorgeous balloons!
