CloseDose

How to Weigh Your Baby at Home

Babies and toddlers can't safely stand on a scale alone. Use the tared scale method below for the most accurate weight — and the most accurate dose.

The tared scale method

Watch the demo, then follow the four numbered steps below. The whole process takes about 30 seconds.

150.4 0.0 17.6 lb TARE Step 1 — Step on the scale alone Step 2 — Step off and wait Step 3 — Press the TARE button Step 4 — Step on holding your baby!
1

Step on alone

Place a digital bathroom scale on a hard, flat surface. Step on without your baby and wait for the reading to settle.

2

Step off the scale

Step away. Most digital scales will keep displaying your weight for a few seconds.

3

Press TARE / ZERO

Press the TARE or ZERO button on the scale until the display reads 0.0. This tells the scale to ignore your weight on the next reading.

4

Step back on with baby

Hold your baby securely against your chest and step back on. The number now shown is your baby's weight alone.

Don't see a TARE / ZERO button on your scale?

Use the subtraction method. Weigh yourself, then weigh again holding your baby — the difference is your baby's weight.

  1. Step on the scale alone, write down your weight.
  2. Step on again holding your baby, write down that weight.
  3. Subtract — that's your baby's weight in pounds.
Enter both weights to see your baby's weight.

Tips for an accurate reading

  • Use a digital scale — they're more accurate than dial scales for small differences.
  • Place the scale on a hard, flat floor (not carpet) before weighing.
  • Weigh in the same clothing each time so changes reflect your child, not their outfit.
  • Re-check your child's weight every 1–3 months — kids grow fast, and the right dose grows with them.
  • If your reading seems off, repeat the process to confirm before dosing.
🧮 Got the weight? Calculate the dose. Enter the weight in the CloseDose calculator for an exact, age-appropriate recommendation.