One of the most common questions we get is:
“What’s the best pole to use for bubble wands?”
The answer? It depends! There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to bubble poles. The best choice depends on your event, the type of bubble gear you’re using, and even the weather conditions.
Here’s a breakdown of the three main types of poles and their pros and cons to help you decide what’s right for you.
Telescoping Fishing Poles
Pros:
Lightweight & Long – These poles are impressively long, allowing you to launch bubbles high into the air and over crowds. Perfect for Large Garlands & Nets – If you’re using bigger rigs, these poles can handle the weight and size with ease. Visually Impressive – The length and reach give a “wow” factor that’s hard to beat!
Cons:
Need to be Set Up – They’re not difficult to setup, but they take a few minutes of work. (scroll-down for a how-to-video) Too Long for Small Spaces – If you’re working in a small backyard or tight area, these poles can be cumbersome. Challenging to Dip – Due to their length, they can be harder to dip in bubble solution without splashing or missing the bucket. More Expensive – At $10-$20 per pole (or more if pre-rigged), they’re the most expensive option.
Recommended poles:
Black Widow Telescoping Fishing Poles– these are very basic, and do not have any sort of a grip, but you can find them pretty easily at your local Walmart. We recommend using some hockey tape for a better grip. Removing the last section makes a pole that is 82 inches long
Slab Grabber Telescopic Fishing Poles– very nice handles, and sturdier at the top, but a foot shorter. They’re slightly more expensive than the Black Widows, but worth it in our opinion. We use the 12-foot version with the last 2 sections removed to make poles that are approximately 74 inches long.
There are quite a few ways to rig them- we like using wall anchors with screw eyes. The Slab Grabber uses #8-#14 anchors, and 1-17/32 screw eyes (National Hardware stock number N118-927), and the Black Widows use #4-#10 wall anchors with 1-1/8 screw eyes (National Hardware stock number N118-927). Your best bet is to go to an independent hardware store with the poles to make sure they fit.
Scroll down for a how-to-video
That idea came from Cheryl Holley at Bubbly Heaven
Telescoping Flag Poles
Pros: Lightweight & Compact – Easy to carry, store, and transport. Adjustable Length – The variable size makes them ideal for different event spaces and crowds. Easy to Set Up – Quick to rig and get ready for action. Affordable – Typically priced at $5-$10 per pole, making them a budget-friendly option.
Cons: Prone to Rust – They need to be dried thoroughly between uses to prevent rusting. Not Suitable for Large Rigs – While great for smaller garlands, they’re not built to handle large nets or heavy garlands. The 21 loop tri-garland is the largest garland that we recommend using with these poles. They’re too light-weight for our nets. Less Comfortable Grip – Holding these poles for long periods can be tiring because they aren’t as ergonomically designed.
Dowels & Broom Handles
Pros: Beginner-Friendly – Simple and easy for kids and adults alike to use. Inexpensive – A low-cost option, allowing you to have multiple poles for different strings without breaking the bank. Durable – They can take a beating and still perform well.
Cons: Shorter Length – They’re typically too short for making giant bubbles with big garlands and nets. They’re good with garlands approximately 5-6 feet in length Non-Telescoping – Unlike fishing or flag poles, they don’t adjust in length.
Pro or Con? – Since bubbles stay closer to the ground, they’re easier for kids to pop—which can be either a bonus or a challenge depending on your goal!
The Dollar Tree broom handles can be slippery- we recommend adding some hockey tape at the end for a better grip. Hockey tape is available at Walmart, most sporting goods stores, or online.
Which Poles Do We Use?
We use all three types!
Because we often perform at day-long or multi-day events with lots of bubble stations for kids, it’s essential to be prepared for any situation. Different conditions call for different setups, so having a variety of poles gives us the flexibility we need to keep the fun going.
That said, about 90% of our rigs are set up with shorter poles. Why?
Less Fatigue – When you’re working 8-10 hour days over a holiday weekend, shorter poles with smaller garlands are much easier on the arms and shoulders. Because they’re easier to dip I find that I can make as many, or more bubbles for kids with the shorter poles than I can with the longer poles. Beginner-Friendly – Shorter poles are perfect for older kids and parents who want to join in. It’s fun for everyone! Great for Group Games – We love creating “doubles bubbles” with two kids, and our nets or garlands. We hand a pole to each kid and they run through a field with a group of kids trailing behind popping the bubbles. It’s pure joy!
Final Thoughts: Which Pole is Best for You?
- For big, impressive bubbles: Go with telescoping fishing poles.
- For flexibility and easy storage: Try telescoping flag poles.
- For quick, simple setups and all-ages fun: Stick with dowels or broom handles.
No matter which pole you choose, you’re guaranteed to create magical moments with bubbles. So grab your poles, dip your strings, and let the fun begin! 