Powder Cannons - Holi Powder
Holi Powder Cannons: Bold Colour for Every Celebration
A holi powder cannon turns any moment into a visual spectacle. One twist and you get a full cloud of vibrant, biodegradable powder. The kind of shot that looks incredible in photos and even better in person. Whether you are planning a gender reveal, a birthday party, a colour run or just want something more dramatic than confetti, our powder cannon collection has the right launcher for the occasion.
Important: Never use powder cannons near naked flames or fire sources. Airborne powder is combustible. Treat it the same way you would a flour mill environment. Always use in open outdoor spaces away from any ignition source.
Types of Powder Cannons
Holi powder cannons are the classic option. Compressed air launches a burst of plant based coloured powder across a 5 x 10 metre area. Available in pink, blue, yellow, green, purple, orange and white. Biodegradable and safe for skin contact. Our most popular choice for gender reveals and outdoor photo shoots.
Smoke powder cannons create a lingering coloured cloud rather than a burst. The smoke disperses slowly, giving you a longer window for photos and video. Best for outdoor use with a light breeze. If you are looking specifically for gender reveal smoke, browse our dedicated smoke cannon collection.
Combination launchers are our 45cm mega blasters that combine a powder burst and smoke effect in one unit for maximum visual impact. Ideal for larger outdoor events where you want both the burst and the cloud.
What Are They Used For?
Gender reveals: pink or blue powder is the original and still the most popular reveal format. A single cannon fired by a close family member or both parents simultaneously makes for an unforgettable photo. Pair two cannons, one pink and one blue, for a simultaneous reveal if you want to keep both options ready until the moment.
Colour runs and events: powder cannons are popular for fun runs, school sports days and community events. Each cannon covers approximately a 5 x 10 metre area. Always use outdoors in open spaces and keep well away from any flame or ignition source.
Party photography and content creation: powder cannons produce consistent, repeatable bursts that work well for styled shoots. The powder is plant based cornstarch, so it is safe for skin and hair and washes out easily.
How Many Do You Need?
For a gender reveal with 2 to 4 people in frame, 1 to 2 cannons is enough. For a group photo moment with 10 or more guests, 4 to 6 cannons fired simultaneously fills the frame well. Free express shipping applies to all orders of 4 or more units.
All our powder cannons are biodegradable, easy to clean up outdoors (a light rain or hose does it), and dispatched from our Australian warehouse. Backed by our 90 day guarantee.
Frequently Asked Questions: Powder Cannons
What is holi powder made from?
Our holi powder is plant based cornstarch coloured with non toxic dyes. It is biodegradable, skin safe and free from harmful chemicals. Not all holi powder on the market uses the same formulation. Ours is specifically chosen to be safe for direct skin and hair contact and to wash out from most fabrics. See our full guide on whether holi powder stains.
How far does a powder cannon shoot?
Our standard 45cm powder cannons project powder across approximately a 5 x 10 metre area in still conditions. Outdoors with a light breeze behind you, the cloud carries further and spreads wider. Avoid firing directly into strong wind. Position yourself so the wind carries the powder toward your subject.
Can I use a powder cannon indoors?
We recommend outdoors only. The powder cloud is fine and will coat surfaces, furniture and ventilation systems. If you must use indoors (for example a studio shoot), ensure excellent ventilation, cover surfaces and confirm your venue is happy with cleanup. Smoke powder cannons should not be used indoors at all. Never use near naked flames or ignition sources. Airborne powder is combustible.
Is holi powder safe for children and pets?
Our cornstarch powder is non toxic and safe for skin contact. Avoid letting young children or pets inhale the cloud directly. Keep them a couple of metres back from the initial burst. The powder disperses quickly and the settled residue is harmless on skin and grass.
What is the difference between a powder cannon and a smoke cannon?
A powder cannon fires a burst of solid coloured particles that fall and settle. The colour effect is instant but brief. A smoke cannon produces a slower dissipating coloured cloud that lingers for 10 to 30 seconds. Smoke gives you more time for photos. Powder gives you a more dramatic burst effect. Many people combine both for a gender reveal.
Does holi powder stain?
On grass and sealed surfaces, no. The powder washes away easily. On fabric, ours is designed to wash out in a normal cold water cycle. Cheaper holi powders sometimes use chemical dyes that stain. See our holi powder staining guide for full detail.
Also available: confetti cannons and gender reveal cannons.