If you need to know your height but there is no one around to help you measure it, don't worry - there are several ways you can accurately measure it yourself.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Using an Improvised Ruler
Step 1. Make a DIY ruler using a $ 5 bill, string, tape and a marker
Measure your height with this makeshift ruler if you don't have a tape measure or real ruler available.
- Consider this method if you need to know your height right away and don't have time to get yourself a ruler.
- Keep in mind that the measurement you will get will not be accurate.
Step 2. Use the 5 euro note to help you make your ruler
Making a ruler by measuring a 5 euro banknote is easy because its length is exactly 12 centimeters.
- Lay the bill next to the string and flatten them both with one hand.
- Make a mark with the marker at the end of the banknote on the string and repeat this operation until you reach 180 cm.
- You can use another banknote if you don't have a 5 euro banknote on hand, but keep in mind that the size will be different (you can check the measurements of all euro banknotes on this page).
Step 3. Use your makeshift ruler as you would a regular tape measure
Attach the twine to the wall using a piece of masking tape.
- Be careful not to break the string.
- Stand up straight with your feet and back in contact with the wall.
- Make a mark on the wall at the top of your head.
- Check the twine to find out your height.
Method 2 of 3: Using a Stadiometer
Step 1. Find a stadiometer to help you measure your height
This object is usually found in doctors' offices and gyms.
- If possible, find a digital one - the result will be much more accurate.
- Look for a stadiometer consisting of a ruler and a sliding horizontal head that you can adjust until it touches the top of your head.
- You could also ask your doctor to measure your height with the stadiometer.
Step 2. Prepare for measurement
Make sure you do the following:
- Take off your socks and shoes. Measure your height when you are barefoot - flip flops, slippers and even socks will affect the fit.
- Remove any objects from your head. Don't wear a hat or headband and, if you have one, untie the ponytail. Press the head of the stadiometer firmly to keep your hair flat.
- Stand on the base of the stadiometer with your back against the wall and feet together. Stand as straight as possible with your heels, back, shoulders, and head touching the wall. Tuck your chin and look straight ahead.
Step 3. Adjust the stadiometer head until it touches the top of your head
Make sure you can move it up and down.
- Make sure your vertical arm is working properly before trying to measure yourself.
- Keep in mind that you may need to bend or turn the headboard so that it is perfectly perpendicular to the floor.
Step 4. Check your height on the stadiometer
Pull out from under the horizontal head after having adjusted it correctly and check the size.
- Your height will be visible on the vertical rod of the stadiometer.
- You should see an arrow indicating the size at the base of the head.
- The digital stadiometers will show the measurement on a small screen.
Method 3 of 3: Using a Tape Measure
Step 1. Get the objects you will need to measure your height
Make sure you have the following:
- A tape measure (or ruler).
- A mirror.
- A pencil.
- A small box or a bulky book.
Step 2. Choose the right spot to measure yourself
Find a place that meets these requirements:
- A smooth, free section of floor next to a wall.
- A place where you can stand with your back against the wall.
- A place where you can make a small pencil mark on the wall.
- A hard concrete, tile, or wood floor. Avoid surfaces covered with carpets or rugs.
- Try to find a space near a door or in the corner of a room to get a "guide" for the meter.
- If possible, find a position that is in front of a mirror, so that you don't need to use a vanity mirror or similar.
Step 3. Get ready to measure your height
Make sure you do the following:
- Take off your socks and shoes. Measure your height when you are barefoot - flip flops, slippers and even socks will affect the fit.
- Remove any objects from your head. Don't wear a hat or headband and, if you have one, untie the ponytail. Keep your hair free and flat.
- Stand with your back against the wall and feet together. Stand as straight as possible with your heels, back, shoulders and head in contact with the wall. Tuck your chin slightly and look straight ahead.
Step 4. Follow these directions to start the measurement
Make sure you are able to easily reach everything you might need during this operation.
- Hold the box in one hand and the mirror and pencil in the other.
- Lift the box over your head and press it against the wall.
- Using the mirror, check that the box is parallel to the floor (i.e. perfectly horizontal) and perpendicular to the wall (i.e. it must form a right angle). Do not tilt the box, as this will cause inaccurate measurement.
Step 5. Mark the position above the top of the head on the wall with the pencil
Make sure you don't move the box or your finger as you do this.
- Mark the spot on the wall where the bottom side of the box rests. If possible, hold the box in place and slide out from underneath.
- Try putting your finger on the underside of the box and hold it in place as you slide off.
- You may also be able to make the mark without moving from the measuring position at all.
Step 6. Measure the distance from the floor to the pencil mark using a tape measure
Remember to keep the tape measure flat against the wall.
- If the measuring tape you are using is too short to measure your full height, take the highest measurement possible and make a pencil mark on the wall.
- Make a note of the measurement.
- Repeat this until you reach the pencil mark you made using the box.
- Add the individual measurements together to get the overall value of your height.
