Foil balloons are sometimes incorrectly called what?

Foil balloons are sometimes incorrectly called Mylar balloons, primarily due to brand recognition. Mylar is a specific type of polyester film that is often used in the production of foil balloons, but not all foil balloons are made from the Mylar brand. The term "Mylar" has become synonymous with foil balloons in the minds of many consumers, similar to how people may refer to any tissue as “Kleenex.” This confusion arises because Mylar is a well-known and widely preferred material for creating these shiny, decorative balloons, which are popular for celebrations due to their durability and the ability to hold helium longer than latex balloons.

In contrast, the other terms do not apply accurately to foil balloons. Helium balloons refers to the gas that fills many types of balloons but does not distinguish the material. Latex balloons are made of rubber and are quite different in terms of properties and usage, often deflating quicker than foil balloons. Party balloons is a broad term that can refer to various types of balloons used for celebrations, which again does not specifically identify foil balloons. Thus, the term Mylar has become improperly generalized to describe foil balloons, making it a point of confusion in event planning.