When you think of kids’ parties, balloons are usually the first thing that comes to mind. They’re bright, bouncy, and festive — but unfortunately, they’re also one of the most harmful single-use decorations out there. Once the party’s over, they either sit in landfill or, worse, end up in waterways where they can hurt wildlife.
The good news? There are so many creative, colourful, and kid-approved ways to bring the magic of balloons without the waste. Here are 10 of our favourite swaps that will keep your party vibrant and fun:
1. Hand-Painted Wooden (or Cardboard) Cutouts
Big, bold shapes (balloons, stars, rainbows, animals, numbers) that can be customized to your theme and painted in your party colours. Kids love posing with them, and you can keep them as a keepsake for years.
I painted these Paw Patrol cutouts (Picture above) for my son's 5th birthday party with bright bunches of balloons painted around them! Painting cutouts of balloons are always a hit! Still classic party vibes, without the waste.
2. Paper Mache Balloons
Love the look of balloons but want an eco-friendly twist? Paper mâché balloons give the same 3D, realistic effect without using latex or plastic. They’re lightweight, fully customizable, and make a stunning statement in any setup.
Just a heads-up—they take time! Layering and drying is a slow process, so start well in advance to keep stress at bay. The effort is worth it for a handmade, sustainable decoration that will wow your guests.
3. Ribbon Wands
Simple, colourful, and endlessly fun!
Bright flowing ribbons on sticks are a hit with kids and adults alike. They add movement, sparkle, and joy to any party— and double as a take home gift. They make for magical movement and stunning photos.
4. Fabric Garlands
Swap plastic streamers for fabric bunting, pom-poms, or tassel garlands. Sewn once, reused forever — and they instantly add colour across tables, fences, or backdrops.
5. Paper Lanterns
Paper lanterns are a bright, beautiful and quick alternative to balloons! Add cutouts, letters, or paint to really make them pop. For a quick option, simply pick up some paper lanterns from the store, add a little style, and you’re done. They create stunning décor - with or without a light inside - and bring a magical touch to any party setup.
6. Paper Pinwheels
These spin in the breeze and are just as eye-catching as a cluster of balloons. Kids love making them, too — you can turn it into a pre-party craft activity to keep the kids from tearing the house down with pre-party excitement!
7. Chalkboard Signs
Giant chalkboards where kids can draw, doodle, or write birthday messages. They’re interactive, reusable, and totally unique.
8. Bubble Machines
For endless fun and movement, you can’t go past bubbles. Kids get the same excitement as balloons, but with zero waste.
The trick is keeping things big, bold, and interactive — the same reasons balloons have always been popular. When decorations move, sparkle, or invite play, kids feel the excitement instantly. And instead of throwing them away, you’ll be left with keepsakes, reusable décor, or compostable materials.
Want more ideas like this?
This is just a glimpse! I’m testing and sharing loads more ways to swap out wasteful party supplies for colourful, eco-friendly alternatives. If you’d love the full guide with 20+ ideas (plus templates and discounts), Join The Party List below — it’s free, practical, and designed to make your next celebration both magical and sustainable.