Last updated on: January 25, 2025
When it comes to supporting breastfeeding families, having the right tools can make all the difference. One essential tool for lactation consultants is a high-quality infant scale. Whether you’re weighing babies to monitor growth trends or conducting pre- and post-feed weight checks, accuracy and reliability are key.
However, many lactation consultants feel overwhelmed when trying to decided what scale to purchase. In this article, we will share some of the best scales for lactation consultants across different price ranges and provide tips on what to look for when selecting the perfect scale for your practice.
Why Accuracy Matters in Infant Scales
Accurate weight measurements are vital for:
- Tracking Growth: Consistent, reliable weight checks ensure babies are thriving and gaining appropriately.
- Pre- and Post-Feed Weights: Measuring milk transfer during feedings helps assess breastfeeding success and troubleshoot challenges.
- Building Trust: Parents rely on lactation consultants for guidance and reassurance. A reliable scale can provide the confidence they need.
What to Look for in an Infant Scale
When choosing a scale, consider the following features:
- Accuracy: Look for a scale with a precision of at least 5 grams (0.1 ounces) to capture small changes in weight. 2 grams is deal, espcially if you work with premature infants.
- Ease of Use: A simple, intuitive interface is ideal for busy consultants.
- Portability: If you offer home visits, a lightweight, portable scale is a must.
- Weight Capacity: Ensure the scale accommodates newborns to toddlers (up to 40 lbs or more).
- Durability: A well-constructed scale can withstand frequent use and transportation.
- Price: Consider your budget while balancing quality and functionality.
- Measurements: You want your scale to be able to measure in both lbs and ounces and in grams/kilograms. Grams/Kilograms is especially important for doing weighted feeds.
Top Infant Scales for Lactation Consultants
Here are a variety of scales that are you can consider. If you aren’t able to afford one of the more expensive, higher tier options, that’s okay. Start out with another scale and then save money to upgrade. Be aware of the limitations of the less expensive scales (possibly less accuracy, may need to be calibrated more frequently) and grow as you can.
Entry-Level Option
Better Goods Digital Baby Scale
- Price: Around $50
- Best For: New consultants or those on a tight budget.
- Features: Lightweight and portable, this scale offers a decent level of accuracy (5-10g increments) and a user-friendly design. While it’s not as precise as higher-end models, it’s a good starting point for basic weight checks. This is the first scale I had, and it actually works really well.
Mid-Range Options
Rice Lake DBS2 Digital Baby Scale
- Price: Around $200
- Best For: Consultants seeking an affordable yet reliable option.
- Features: Known for its solid construction and accuracy (5g increments), the DBS2 is compact and easy to transport, making it a great choice for home visits. The scale includes a comfortable tray and a clear digital display. This is the scale that I have used in my practice until recently.
High-End Options
Marsden M-300 Portable Baby Scale
- Price: Around $500-600
- Best For: Established consultants
- Features: With high precision (2g increments) and a robust design, this scale is perfect for frequent use. It’s lightweight yet sturdy, making it a popular choice among lactation professionals. It is portable and easy to use. This was my top choice when looking for scales, but they were back-ordered, so I had to opt for something else. If you don’t need a portable scale, the M-400 is a great option that is less expensive.
TANITA 1584 Digital Baby Scale
- Price: About $1,449
- Best For: Those prioritizing precision and professionalism with a higher budget
- Features: TANITA is renowned for its medical-grade scales. This model is highly accurate (2g increments) and features a sleek design, portability, and reliable performance. It has a soft mat for weighing, a feature to calculate weighted feeds, and works really well. It’s one of the most popular models amongst lactation professionals. I (Katie) just upgrade to this and couldn’t be more excited!
- Price: Around $1,895
- Best For: Professionals requiring the gold standard in accuracy and functionality.
- Features: Designed specifically for pre- and post-feed weight measurements, the BabyWeigh II is incredibly precise (2g increments) and easy to use. Its reputation for accuracy makes it a trusted choice for hospitals and lactation consultants. It is very expensive and may be difficult for newer consultants to purchase, but it is well worth the investement. This one can be a little harder to find in stock.
Final Thoughts
Investing in a high-quality infant scale is crucial for lactation consultants who want to provide accurate, dependable care. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade, there’s a scale to meet your needs and budget. Remember to prioritize accuracy, ease of use, and portability when making your selection.
By equipping yourself with the right tools, you’ll not only enhance your practice but also help families feel more confident and supported on their breastfeeding journey.