The outdoor Christmas inflatables guide

Outdoor Christmas inflatables have become a staple in festive decorations, bringing joy and a touch of whimsy to gardens across the UK.

These eye-catching decorations come in various shapes and sizes, from classic Santas to playful reindeer and even pop culture icons.

Here, the Christmas.co.uk team delves into the history of outdoor Christmas inflatables and offer some ideas for buying an inflatable this festive season and the best retailers.

History of outdoor Christmas inflatables

The concept of outdoor inflatables for Christmas decorations began in the early 2000s. Inspired by large promotional inflatables used by businesses, companies like Gemmy Industries in the US pioneered the first Christmas inflatables.

Its initial creation, an 8-foot Santa Claus, quickly gained popularity.

Over the years, the designs have evolved, incorporating advanced materials and technology to create a wide variety of festive characters and scenes.

Plus, if you want a huge festive inflatable of more than 20ft then these are available too.

Why consider outdoor Christmas inflatables?

Outdoor Christmas inflatables are a fantastic way to enhance your festive decor. Here are a few reasons to consider them:

• Visual impact: Their large size and vibrant colours make them highly visible and attractive
• Ease of use: Most inflatables are self-inflating and come with built-in lights, making setup quick and easy
• Variety: There is a vast range of designs available, from traditional Christmas figures to modern and quirky characters
• Durability: Made from weather-resistant materials, they can withstand the elements and last for many seasons.

What are outdoor Christmas inflatables made from?

Outdoor inflatables are typically made from durable, weather-resistant materials such as:

• Nylon: Lightweight and strong, often used for its tear-resistant properties
• PVC: Known for its durability and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions
• Polyester: Commonly used for its flexibility and resistance to water and UV rays.

How are outdoor Christmas inflatables used?

These inflatables are designed to be placed in gardens, on lawns or even on rooftops.

They are often secured with stakes and tethers to prevent them from blowing away in the wind.

Many inflatables come with built-in LED lights, adding a magical glow to your outdoor space at night. They can be used as standalone decorations or as part of a larger festive display.

Here’s a quick guide:

• Choose a suitable location: Select a flat, level surface that is free of obstructions
• Unpack and inflate: Unpack your inflatable and connect it to a power source
• Secure the inflatable: Use the stakes provided to secure the inflatable to the ground
• Add lights (optional): For extra sparkle, consider adding LED lights to your inflatable
• Enjoy the festive display: Sit back and admire your festive creation.

How expensive are outdoor Christmas inflatables?

The cost of outdoor Christmas inflatables can vary widely based on size, complexity and brand.

Simple designs can start at around £20, while larger, more intricate and much larger inflatables can cost upwards of £100.

On average, you can expect to spend between £50 and £150 for a high-quality and tall inflatable – such as an 8ft waving Santa.

How to care for Christmas inflatables

Proper care and maintenance can extend the life of your inflatables:

• Cleaning: Wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove dirt and debris
• Storage: Ensure the inflatable is completely deflated and dry before storing it in a cool, dry place. Use the original packaging or a sturdy storage bin- remember to fold neatly
• Repairs: Small tears can be fixed with repair kits or heavy-duty tape
• Weather precautions: During extreme weather conditions, it’s advisable to deflate and store the inflatables indoors to prevent damage.

It might also be worth looking at storing your inflatable in a large, airtight storage bag to protect it from dust and moisture.

Popular inflatable Christmas decorations

• Santa Claus inflatables: A classic choice for a festive front garden

Retailers: B&Q, Argos, Amazon, Tesco

• Reindeer inflatables: Add a touch of magic to your outdoor space

Retailers: Wilko, Amazon

• Snowman inflatables: A wintery addition to your Christmas display

Retailers: Amazon

• Pop culture inflatables: Bring your favourite characters to life – such as characters from movies, TV shows, and video games

Retailers: Very, Amazon, Christmas.uk.

There are also animated inflatables which feature moving parts and lights, creating a dynamic display.

Buying an outdoor Christmas inflatable

Outdoor Christmas inflatables are a fantastic way to bring festive cheer and a touch of magic to your garden.

Their vibrant colours, whimsical designs and impressive sizes make them a standout feature in any Christmas display.

From classic characters like Santa and snowmen to modern pop culture icons, there is an inflatable to suit every taste and theme.

Investing in outdoor inflatables offers several benefits.

They are easy to set up, durable, and can be reused year after year with proper care.

Their ability to create a joyful and inviting atmosphere makes them a favourite among families and neighbours alike.

Also, the wide range of designs and sizes available means you can find the perfect inflatable to fit your space and budget.

By choosing outdoor Christmas inflatables, you can transform your garden into a festive wonderland that delights both young and old.