If you've searched for "Orbeez" while planning a vase or centrepiece, you're not alone. Lots of people use that name for any small gel bead. Here's how our decorative water beads are different, and how to pick the right ones for your project.
Orbeez is a trademark of its owner. Water Beads Australia isn't affiliated with Orbeez. We sell decorative water beads for vases, flowers, events and plants. They are not toys.
What are water beads?
Water beads (also called gel beads or hydrogel beads) are small polymer crystals. They soak up water and swell into soft, glossy balls. Our standard beads grow to about 1.2 to 1.5cm. Our jumbo water beads grow to about the size of a ping pong ball. A 10g pack makes about 1.2 litres. Learn more about water beads.
Water beads vs Orbeez: how they differ
- What they're for: Orbeez is a toy brand. Our water beads are made and sold for décor, vase filling, flowers and plants. They're a different product, so don't treat them as the same thing.
- Sizes and colours: we stock standard and jumbo sizes, clear beads that almost disappear in water, and 11 colours to match your theme.
- How much you need: decorators and event stylists often need more, so we sell everything from 10g packs up to 1kg bulk packs.
Best ways to use water beads for décor
- Vases and centrepieces: clear water beads hold stems in place and look like sparkling water. They stay plump for about 2 to 3 weeks. Top them up with water to plump them back up. If you keep them clean, they can look good for up to about 3 months. Our vase guide has more tips.
- Floating candles: put a layer of clear or coloured beads under a floating candle.
- Weddings and events: match the beads to your colours. At Christmas, add some instant fake snow to the table.
- Plants: beads hold moisture for cuttings and indoor plants. Read water beads for plants and our plant care guide.
Which should I buy?
For décor, choose by size and colour. Clear beads give an invisible look. Jumbo beads make a bold vase. Mixed colours suit a themed table. Shop all water beads.
Safety: please read
Water beads are for decorative and garden use only. They are not a toy. Keep them away from children and pets. Swallowed beads can expand and cause a serious internal blockage. If swallowed, get medical help straight away (Poisons Information Centre 13 11 26, or 000 in an emergency).
