At least once in our life, we have all placed our feet on a bathroom scale: a precious instrument generally found in the bathroom but can sometimes be moved to the bedroom, which helps us keep our body weight under control. In addition to medical offices, scales can be found in most homes, as it is a tool that does everything by itself; our only job will be to get on our feet.
We often see an element in a distracted way, but have we ever wondered how exactly a scale works? For example, how does a scale convert the force exerted by our bodies into a certain number of lb?
Weight is simply the amount of force you have on an object due to gravity. Weight is different from mass, which measures the amount of matter in an object. Your mass remains the same whether you are on Earth or the Moon. Since the Moon has less gravity than Earth, it weighs less on the Moon than Earth.
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How does a Bathroom Scale work?
The oldest scale is certainly the measuring scale. Dating back over 5,000 years, it was probably invented in ancient Egypt. The scale worked by comparing an object of unknown weight with a standard weight whose weight was known. A spring mechanism characterizes the modern scale that we all know.
If you were to open a standard spring scale like the one in most bathrooms, you would see that the platform you are standing on is attached to a spring. The heavier our body, the more the platform is pushed down. Then the spring is compressed by the weight until its resistance is equal to our body’s.
Finally, the quadrant placed on the platform indicates a numerical line representing the weight based on calculations based on Hooke’s law. Hooke’s law relates force, that is, our weight, to the elongation of the spring.
Of course, if you have a newer scale, you may have a digital screen rather than the classic dial. Newer scales may still use the spring mechanism, and in that case, the calculation based on Hooke’s law is converted into a digital number transmitted to the screen.
Many modern digital scales no longer use the spring system. Instead, they are equipped with pressure sensors called piezoelectric transducers. These devices produce an electric current as they are compressed. The more you weigh, the more current is produced. A connected electronic circuit measures the current and converts it to a measurement of equivalent weight.
When we talk about scales, there are specific terms: range, tolerance, and graduation. By capacity, we mean the maximum weight load of the scales. Above this value, the hands of the mechanical scales return to the starting point. Capacity has nothing to do with what a set of scales can handle. Modern scales are equipped with built-in safety devices to withstand much higher weights without damage.
Average dimensions of a weighing scale
The bathroom scale is generally tiny and takes up little space, especially its minimum height. Precisely for this reason, it is possible to store it under the bed or the bathroom cabinet in cases where you do not want to leave it visible.
The average measurements of an impedance balance are about 12 x 12 x 0.7-1 inch. The weight is usually around 4 lbs. The new scale models are very modern, with an essential design and style, very thin, and suitable for any house corner.
Design and characteristics of a bathroom scale
Modern scales are different from the classic 90s bathroom scales we all remember and often have at home. Instead, we remember a white platform and a dial at the top, with standard dimensions, almost the same as modern ones.
As we said, the new scales are generally based on another mechanism, which is the one with piezoelectric transducers, leaving aside the spring system, now considered obsolete, even if it remains the system with more precise values.
New scales generally have a digital display, often backlit to work well even at night; thus, it allows the user to see the weight correctly. Many also have an auto-off function and a platform in special materials, such as tempered glass, which allows the values to be more precise.
Advice on how to use a bathroom scale
There is a wide variety of bathroom scales on the market that come in different shapes and mechanisms, such as mechanical scales, digital scales, high-capacity scales for heavier people, and high-precision scales for people who analyze their weight minutely; and these are just some of the products available on the market. But some habits are best to follow when trying to keep your weight under control with an electronic scale.
The weight of an adult can vary during the day by about 4-6 lbs. Therefore, it is important for reliable weight control that the conditions under which you weigh yourself are always the same.
You should always make sure you weigh yourself:
- Before eating.
- At the same time of day.
- Preferably in the morning after visiting the bathroom.
- The best time to analyze the body is between 6 pm and 8 pm.
- Naked.
We recommend that you follow these rules for proper use of the body weight scale:
- First, make sure the scale is on a solid and secure floor.
- Set the mechanical scales to the “0” position using the setting wheel.
- Electronic scales are automatically zeroed.
- Stand as symmetrically as you can on the scale, as uneven weight distribution can interfere with weight.
- Stay still.
- Do not hold anything in your hand, and do not lean on anything.
- Always weigh yourself in the same position, as different conditions such as floor type, temperature, and humidity can lead to different readings.
As for modern digital scales, these generally turn on automatically when you step onto the small platform. Thus, the weight is shown immediately, and after getting off the platform, the digital scale will automatically turn off in most cases.
What is the average price of a bathroom scale?
In addition to measuring weight, bathroom scales are designed to display your body-fat percentage and help you distinguish between fat loss and weight loss. And in addition to body fat, some scales will also show you additional values related to bone density, the percentage of water in the body, and BMI.
Often it is necessary to enter some vital statistics, such as height and gender, to get more accurate values. For example, scales send a tiny burst of electrical current around the body to measure body fat. The current moves slower through fat and faster through muscle, so the current’s speed passes through your body, allowing the weight scale to calculate body fat and muscle density, displayed in percentages.
Due to this electrical current mechanism, it is recommended that you do not use this professional bathroom scale feature if you have a pacemaker or other internal medical device or if you are pregnant. They are also not recommended for children under the age of 10.
For a fat mass scale, you can spend from $15 to $200. The more expensive models will clearly offer complete measurements, including fat mass, total body water percentage, and muscle mass. However, you will probably also have to pay a little more to know your body-fat values automatically and quickly with a tool that can connect to your smartphone or tablet and monitor your progress from there.
Why should you buy a bathroom scale?
Having a diagnostic scale at home is essential for those who want to keep their weight under control, which is not only true for fitness and aerobics enthusiasts. The scale is essential for everyone because eating well and controlling your weight are the basis of living well. To be healthy, it is necessary to follow a balanced diet and do sports; balance can be useful in these situations.
Studies have shown that people who weigh themselves regularly are more successful in losing weight because it helps them keep track of their progress. A good scale can do more than record your total body weight.
Then also calculate the lean mass or the percentage of water, for example. The most advanced and accurate scales also provide heart rate, body mass index, and calorie values. You will find a large selection of scale models with different functionalities on the web. Naturally, the price varies a lot depending on the features.
How do you choose the right people scale according to your needs?
You might think a scale is just a tool for checking weight, but scales have come a long way since they offered no other option. They are now equipped with sophisticated LCD screens and can provide information on body composition instead of just weight.
Generally, when choosing a bathroom scale to buy, you need to make a budget, then explore all the options and features before determining which scale is best for your needs.
- Determine who will use the scale beside you and estimate their weights. Different scales have different heavyweights, so look for a scale that can support the weight of the heaviest member of your family.
- Determine if the right scale for you is the digital or analog one. If you choose an analog scale, look for one that makes recalibration or zeroing before each uses easy and intuitive.
- Choose digital scales that can also measure body composition. The more advanced models can also highlight the percentage of water in the body and the muscles. Thus, they are more complete and useful, and the price difference is often minimal.
- Choose scales that record body changes if you are looking for them. Some scales can be programmed for different family members and store each member’s records. This avoids having to write down improvements.
- Choose the scale with the best warranty so you can protect your investment in the event of a malfunction. In addition, this will allow you to test your scale at home and evaluate it to see if it meets your expectations.
As always, the choice of a product is always linked to the needs and requirements of those who use it. In the case of the scale, as in many other cases, it is necessary to understand what use it will be used for, to whom it will be destined, and the values you want to keep under control? Sometimes the scale can also be used by those who have to make specific use of it, for example, those who have to follow a diet due to diseases.
How to take care of a bathroom scale?
As far as care and cleaning are concerned, many people believe that should not clean a bathroom scale, or that in any case, it is an operation that is considered not essential for the correct functioning of the instrument.
Should clean the scales with a slightly damp cloth, and if necessary, it may be useful to add a little detergent. However, it is important never to immerse the scales in water or other liquids and never use chemical or abrasive cleaners.
Are the values of the bathroom scales always accurate?
One of the most common problems with bathroom scales is that the readings can often be inaccurate and misleading. This is because many external factors influence the values, including the time of day, when you eat, how much time it has been since you last put, how hydrated your body is, and whether your feet are dry or wet.
Studies have shown that these external factors can greatly impact the values you get from a bathroom scale, and you could get different values from the same scale. In addition, some user manuals state that the device may not be completely accurate for highly skilled athletes, the elderly, people with osteoporosis, children, and so on.
Do you really need a bathroom scale?
This is a complex question, even if we can actually solve it in a few lines. There is no standard of ideal weight. The accepted standard can vary widely from person to person and depends on various factors such as fitness level, age, gender, and ethnicity. For example, a weight considered optimal for middle-aged women may not be ideal for older men or athletes.
There is no standard weight for everyone, and in addition to the reasons we have already mentioned above, the weight is also calculated based on any pathologies. So if you are a fitness enthusiast or want to get back in shape, these devices can help you reach your goals faster.
The bathroom scales are beneficial when tracking weight and its change over time. This data motivates people to train daily, adopt healthy habits and stick to a healthy balanced meal plan.
Make sure you use the scale simultaneously every day, for example, after a training session, and follow this pattern to get more accurate values.
When using a scale, keep in mind that the results should be taken with a grain of salt, as they may make you think you are much healthier than you really are. Also, regardless of body fat and muscle mass, some of these scales don’t provide a complete picture.
What characteristics to look for on a bathroom scale?
Certainly, before buying a bathroom scale, it is necessary to understand which could be the best, according to your needs. But there are general guidelines that will help you purchase a good tool. Below, you will find a list of all the features and functions you need to pay attention to before buying a bathroom scale.
Screen: This should be large and clear, so easy to read when standing on the scale. Some have a wireless display unit that can be mounted on the wall for easier viewing.
Display value: This should be easy to understand and stay on a screen long enough for easy reading. Some models blink quickly and show older information, so it’s hard to follow. Ideally, you should view the data again without having to weigh yourself again.
Controls: These should be clearly labeled and easy to use. The programming of the scales should be simple and accessible to every subject.
User Profiles: There should be enough profiles, with individual information, for all family members who regularly use the scales. A “guest” profile can be useful for visitors who want to use scales but don’t need their profile to be stored permanently.
Instructions: These should be easy to understand, with helpful diagrams and interpreting the results.
Multiple user memory: losing weight can be a family effort or something to do as a couple to achieve ideal fitness. That said, there is no need to invest in two or more different scales to track every person’s weight loss.
Most modern scales offer multiple user memory, designed to track each person’s weight. This feature is essential for families who use smartphone and tablet apps to track weight loss.
Multiple Measurements: Gone are the days when people just wanted to keep track of their weight, especially if you’re the type of person interested in always being fit and healthy, rather than just weighing the extra pounds. Having more information about your body and getting better or worse will help you personalize your eating habits and exercise techniques.
And this is one of the main reasons why scale manufacturers now offer more information besides your overall body weight, and it can also be helpful to know your BMI, muscle mass, water percentage, etc.
Compatibility with weight loss apps: It is much easier to lose weight visually by seeing your progress, especially with weight loss apps. Whether you monitor how your body responds to a new diet or figure out if your muscles are inflated regularly enough, the applications can help you a lot. In addition, you will be able to review your progress over the years, and your chosen scale may work to make it even easier.
Most modern scales, especially WiFi adaptable scales, are compatible with weight loss applications where you automatically record your measurements for the application after you weigh yourself. There is no need to worry about entering the data manually, as it will all be recorded in seconds on the scale.
Weight only functionality: if you want the scales to behave like simple scales and only display the weight, it would be useful to have a default “ weight only ” setting. Most scales have this option.
Usable on the carpet: useful if you don’t have hard floors. Scales typically do not measure weight effectively when placed on a carpet.
Long-Life Lithium Batteries: There is a high probability that you will weigh yourself daily, if not more than once a day. This can consume many batteries, and depending on the brand and type of scale you choose, batteries could be relatively expensive. For this, it will be better to choose a bathroom scale with long-lasting lithium batteries, which are designed to last for years, so much longer than the normal batteries we are used to.
The Best Bathroom Scales, the most reliable price-quality
Among the best brands, the average price is very variable. We go from $20 – $30 for the simplest household models, up to $200, and more for professional models for athletes and nutritionists. Below, we list the top 10 best bathroom scales chosen by brand, value for money, and precision.
- Consistent Accuracy: Benefit from 10 years of professional experience. Trusted by over 5...
- Easy to Use: The scale is equipped with an easy-to-read display with automatic on/off, low...
- Minimal Design: Never Let a scale ruin your style. Place this scale in your bathroom,...
- Unparalleled App Experience: Elevate your fitness journey with us. Our scale stands out...
- Upgrade Precision: Benefit from our 10 years of professional experience and join over 5...
- Versatile Weighing Solution: Our scale offers 3 different modes designed to cater to all...
- Renpho smart app works in connection with fitness apps. Easy setup app works with Samsung...
- 13 essential body measurements. Body weight shows on the scale, other body composition...
- User-friendly app. Download Renpho Health at App Store or Google Play, also works with...
- Always Accurate: Equipped with 4 high-precision sensors, the digital bathroom scale...
- Auto Calibration: Simply step onto the body weight scale with one foot to activate its...
- Easy-to-Read LED Display: Clearly shows weight measurements in bold and well-defined...
- Professional Accuracy: With 15 years of professional experience, our high-precision...
- Easy & Convenient: Our bath scale features an easy-to-read display with automatic on/off,...
- Long-Lasting Batteries: Say goodbye to frequent battery changes. Our digital scale...
- AMAZING ACCURACY CHOICE - Benefiting from over 20 years scale professional experience, we...
- EASY TO USE - The bathroom scale utilized up-to-date digital technology, along with many...
- EASILY VISIBLE LED - The digital scale is equipped with crystal clear LED in large number...
- iHealth smart digital scales for body weight is dedicated to empowering healthier lives....
- Accurate Readings: The iHealth Nexus Pro body weight scale always keep an eye on your body...
- 12 Essential Body Composition Analysis- The digital bathroom scale not only supported...
- Convenient and Energy-efficient: The weight scale incorporates step-on technology for...
- Accurate to 0.1lb: Designed with precision in mind, Core TS Scale features 4 precision...
- User Friendly: The body weight scale comes with a clear LED display that allows for easy...
- Note: Due to product upgrades, the latest scales are powered by AAA batteries instead of...
- Full Body Analysis: The GE Fit Plus Smart Body Fat Scale accurately analyzes and tracks...
- Large Vertical Alignment LCD Display: This model features a large color LCD screen that...
- Unmatched Precision: Benefit from 10 years of professional experience. Trusted by over 5...
- Weight Verification Double Check Tech: Offer you unprecedented convenience and accuracy....
- Measure Light Items: Such a versatile scale. Not only can measure your body weight, but...
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