Make a $5 Balloon Cooler for Your Next Summer Party

Shawna Bailey
by Shawna Bailey
3 Materials
$5
1 Hour
Easy
I'm throwing a party this weekend, and I was trying to brainstorm some smart way to keep the drinks cold that would cost me as little as possible. Instead of going to to a party supply store for party decorations, I made this super fun cooler as a centerpiece. All you need is a large vase (trifle dish, glass bowl, etc.) and some water balloons.

Step 1: Fill up Your Balloons
I filled up my balloons only a little bit because I wanted to have my vase filled with lots of colorful balloons. When I tied them off, I gave the knot an extra pull to make sure it wouldn't leak all over my freezer. Step 2: Freeze Your Balloons
I dried my balloons a little bit before putting them in the freezer, so that they wouldn't stick to themselves or each other. They need to freeze for a minimum of 4 hours but a whole day is better. Step 3: Add the Balloons and Drinks to Your Vase
I wanted to completely surround my drinks with the frozen balloons, so I first put down a layer of balloons before adding the bottle.
Then, I added the bottle and more balloons. And...it worked! My drinks stayed cool for hours.
I can't wait to try this trick for the party and really blow my guests away! It would work even better if my party theme was "Pops of Color!" Ooh, maybe I'll do that...
Suggested materials:
  • Water Balloons   (Dollar Store)
  • Large Glass Vase (trifle dish, bowl, etc)   (Dollar Store)
  • Water
Frequently asked questions
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3 of 6 questions
  • Pallet Man Pallet Man on Aug 14, 2016
    Don't you have to remove most of the balloons if you want to put the beverage bottle back in with the frozen balloons ? I think I would fill the large container with the frozen balloons and ice water so I could push the beverage bottle back into the floating balloons.
  • Lesli Ward Lesli Ward on Jun 11, 2017

    Add water to the vase and balloons will make water cold. The water touches more areas of the drink bottle than just balloons alone, will make the drink even colder.

  • Tracy Ann Tracy Ann on Nov 29, 2018

    Balloons are terrible for the environment. There's got to be a better way. Maybe color ice cubes with food coloring?

Comments
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2 of 147 comments
  • Peachez Peachez on Feb 01, 2022

    I think it is a great way to use up left over unused balloons from a party etc., - they will contain the melted ice so no clean up mess (if using indoors) and you can re-use them at your next party - so yeah, I like the idea!

  • Renee Price Renee Price on Jul 13, 2022

    I love this idea 💡. Very useful .I am going to try it in my coolers ( I have been reusing pint cartons), & I can refreeze them.Thank you

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