Is my scale broken?

MKCD123
MKCD123 Posts: 86 Member
edited January 7 in Health and Weight Loss
I bought my first scale this past weekend at Target, I went for a $20 digital scale. I have hard wood floors...in my bedroom I am 2 lbs lighter than I am in the dining room ??? I was thinking that possible the floor isn't level and maybe this is why? However if I use the same location every time is it safe to assume I can use that as accurate measure of weight lost, etc? Not looking to invest any more money in a new scale.

Replies

  • LittleBallofFurr
    LittleBallofFurr Posts: 242 Member
    It could be, I know in my living room I am 5lbs lighter, but it is carpeted in there, also the floor is a little slanted. I always keep my scale in the same place and it seems pretty accurate vs the scale at the gym :)
  • PikaKnight
    PikaKnight Posts: 34,971 Member
    Can't really say if it is broken. Have you tried weighing other objects on it? Did you weigh at different times?

    Honestly, I wouldn't rely on the scale so much. Aside from little quirks like where it is placed, you will be dealing with water retention and muscle gain. Keep the scale in one room and weigh from just there.

    I would more focus on measurements though. More accurate.
  • happypath101
    happypath101 Posts: 534
    Digital scales are notoriously fickle. They definitely read differently on different surfaces. They also respond to changes in temperature. So, keeping it in the bathroom might give you a different result before and after a shower - not because your weight changed, but because the temperature in the room changed.

    Try weighiing yourself 3 times in the same spot in a row. If it changes, the scale is probably busted. But, if it changes when you move it to another room (or over a few tiles) I think that's just the nature of the beast. You'll have to just use the same spot every time. :o/
  • links_slayer
    links_slayer Posts: 1,151 Member
    IMO as long as you are using the same scale in the same place with the same attire that's all that matters when it comes to tracking your progress. It's the same reason you should use the same tape measure for an entire woodworking project. You want an apples to apples comparison. For example, I use the scale at my gym and take off my shoes so it's just ankle socks, boxer briefs, shorts, and tshirt every time.
  • JanelleSonnenberg1
    JanelleSonnenberg1 Posts: 35 Member
    I think if you keep it in the same place and weight yourself, you should be good! :)
  • MKCD123
    MKCD123 Posts: 86 Member
    Thanks for the input everyone :)
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