Congratulations on the birth of your new baby! It's amazing how much they grow and change in those first few weeks and months. You might be wondering if you need to invest in a scale to keep track of your baby's progress. The answer is that it depends. Keep reading to learn more about whether or not you need a scale for your newborn.
Why You Might Need A Scale
If your baby was born premature or has medical issues, your doctor may want you to weigh them regularly to make sure they're gaining weight and growing as they should. If this is the case, your pediatrician will likely advise you on what type of scale to buy and how often to use it.
Another reason you might want to have a scale at home is simply for peace of mind. It can be reassuring to see that your baby is gaining weight, especially if they seem fussy or aren't eating as much as you think they should. Of course, you don't need a scale to tell you if your baby is gaining weight - you can usually tell by how their clothes fit and whether or not they seem satisfied after feedings—but some parents find it helpful nonetheless.
Why You Might Not Need A Scale
If your baby is healthy and isn't premature, you probably don't need to worry about buying a baby scale. You might choose another way to weigh your baby. Your pediatrician will let you know at each checkup whether or not your baby is developing as expected, so there's no need to weigh them at home in between appointments.
Types Of Baby Scales
There are two main types of newborn baby scales – Digital and Manual. Digital scales are more expensive but offer more features and accuracy. Manual scales are less expensive but can be more difficult to use. Whichever type you choose, just make sure that the scale is accurate and easy to use. Inaccurate or difficult-to-use scales will only frustrate you and won’t be worth the money spent on them.
Features
Accuracy – Look for a scale that is accurate to within ½ ounce. This will ensure that you are getting an accurate weight reading every time.
Ease of Use – Look for a scale that is easy to use. The last thing you want is a scale that is difficult to set up or use. Look for a scale with clear instructions and minimal parts.
Portability – Since newborns need to be weighed often (at least weekly in the early months), it’s important to have a scale that is portable so you can easily take it with you when you travel or move houses. A portable scale will also come in handy if you have multiple homes.
Conclusion
So, do you need a scale for your newborn? It depends on your individual circumstances. If your doctor has advised you to weigh your baby regularly or if you simply want the peace of mind that comes with tracking their progress, then investing in a quality scale is a good idea. However, if your baby is healthy and doesn't have any special needs, there's no need to buy one. Just enjoy this special time with your new little one!
Should you choose to buy a scale and find yourself overwhelmed with the decision of finding the right one, check out our article about the 'Best Baby Scales' to ensure you get just the right fit for your little bundle of joy. All new parents deserve access to top-notch equipment. So don't delay - take action now and make sure you have the Best Baby Scale in your nursery!
