Often, the manufacturer’s website will have calibration information for specific models.

A calibration weight is a solid item that usually features no air cavities and helps determine the accuracy of your scale reading. Calibration weights normally range anywhere from 1 mg to 30 kilograms (66 lb). If you don’t have calibration weights, you can use a candy bar, since the outer wrapper does not have much mass. [5] X Research source Alternately, you can use coins:[6] X Research source Pennies made after 1983 weigh exactly 2. 5 grams (0. 088 oz). Nickels made after 1866 weigh 5 grams (0. 18 oz) Dimes made after 1965 weigh 2. 27 grams (0. 080 oz) Quarters made after 1965 weigh 5. 67 grams (0. 200 oz)

For example, you will enter “5 g” if you’re using a U. S. nickel as a calibration weight. If you’re using a candy bar or other grocery item, the mass will be reported on the outside packaging. Make sure you enter the exact amount reported, or rounded to the nearest digit that your scale can measure. [9] X Research source

If you’re using coins, calculate the number of coins you need to achieve the maximum weight limit by dividing the maximum weight limit by the weight of the coin you are using.

If you need a sanitary surface, you can use a drop or two of regular dish soap on your cloth to cleanse the weighing surface.