Table of Contents
Saying goodbye to our loved ones is always a challenging task, and choosing an ash container that preservation is a crucial step in the process. This article aims to educate you on ash containers for cremation, helping you make an informed decision that pays the right respect to your loved one's memory.
What are Ash Containers?
Ash containers are receptacles designed to store ashes following a cremation process. They are also often referred to as urns or cremation urns. These containers can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, wood, glass, or ceramics, and be intricately designed or simple and unadorned, depending on personal preference.
Selection Criteria of Ash Containers
Size
It's important to select the correct-sized urn for remains. A standard ash container can hold approximately 200 cubed inches of ashes. However, this may vary depending on the weight of the deceased.
Material
The durability of the material is an essential factor to consider. Granite or marble are durable and sturdy options. The choice of material often depends on whether these remains are going to be displayed, buried, or scattered.
Types of Ash Containers
Need a Eulogy?
Get a Personalized Professional Eulogy Written For Your Loved One
From a variety of styles and designs available, some of the popular types are:
- Keepsake Urns: These smaller containers are used to keep only a fragment of the remains.
- Biodegradable Urns: Ideal for those opting for a burial or scattering ceremony, these urns decompose over time.
- Companion Urns: These are designed to hold the remains of two people, a touching choice for those who wish not to be parted even in death.
Ash Containers for Cremation Example:
A Classic Wooden Urn
John was an ardent lover of nature, and his family wanted to respect that even in his death. They chose a classic wooden urn, carved from a single block of teakwood. This not only reflected John's love for nature but also offered a warm, calming presence in their living room, where they chose to place the urn, close to family activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are ash containers for cremation commonly made of?
Ash containers, also referred to as urns, are typically made from a variety of materials including metal, wood, stone, ceramic, glass, and biodegradable materials. The choice of material often depends on personal preference, intended use (display versus burial), and budget.
How do I choose the right size for an ash container?
The size of an ash container is usually based on the volume of ashes it needs to hold. A general rule of thumb is that one cubic inch of urn space is needed for every pound the deceased weighed. For instance, a person weighing 150 pounds before cremation would require an urn that is at least 150 cubic inches.
Can ash containers be personalized?
Yes, many urns can be personalized with engravings, such as the deceased's name, date of birth and death, a personal message, or even artwork. Some urns allow for photo placement or have customizable panels or plaques.
Are there different types of urns for different purposes?
Yes, urns are designed for various purposes such as display in a home, burial, or placement in a columbarium. There are also keepsake urns that hold a small portion of ashes, often for family members wishing to share the remains, and scattering urns designed to make scattering the ashes easier.
Is it necessary to buy an urn from a funeral home?
No, it is not necessary to purchase an urn from a funeral home. You have the option to buy an urn from any source, including online retailers, specialty stores, or even artisans. However, it's essential to adhere to the size requirements and consider the quality of the urn.
What is a biodegradable urn?
A biodegradable urn is designed to break down naturally over time. These urns are particularly suitable for burials at sea or in the earth, as they don't harm the environment. They are often made from materials like paper, salt, gelatin, or other compostable materials.
How do I transport ashes in an ash container?
Ashes should be placed securely within the urn and the lid should be sealed properly. If flying, you should check with the airline regarding their policies for transporting cremains, as they may require the urn to be X-rayable. Otherwise, you can transport them by car or send them through specific mail services that accommodate cremated remains.
How are ashes inserted into the container?
The crematorium usually places the ashes into a plastic bag that is sealed and then placed into the urn. It is possible to transfer the ashes into the urn yourself or enlist the help of a funeral professional if you feel uncomfortable doing it.
Can an ash container be placed outdoors?
Yes, but it's crucial to choose an urn that's specifically designed for outdoor use. Materials such as stone, durable metals, and certain woods can withstand the elements. Always ensure the urn you select for outdoor placement is weatherproof and has the proper sealant to protect the ashes within.
What should I consider when selecting an ash container for a columbarium?
Ensure the urn size fits the columbarium niche dimensions and is made from a material allowed by the columbarium. Some columbaria have rules on the appearance of urns, so you should also consider any design or material restrictions that may apply.
Are there ash containers designed to hold the ashes of two people?
Yes, these are known as companion urns or double urns. They are larger and are designed to hold the ashes of two people, often a couple who wished to remain together even after death.
What is the price range for ash containers?
Prices for ash containers can vary greatly depending on the material, craftsmanship, size, and personalization. They can range from as little as $50 for simple, mass-produced urns to several thousand dollars for custom, artist-made pieces.
Is it possible to rent an urn for a funeral service?
Yes, some funeral homes offer urn rentals for services before the final disposition of the ashes. These are often ornate, decorative urns used for the funeral or memorial service, after which the ashes are transferred to a more permanent or simpler urn, or scattered as per one's wishes.
How do I care for and maintain an ash container?
Care and maintenance of an urn depend on its material. Metal urns may require polishing, while wood urns could need oiling or waxing. Ceramic and stone urns should be gently dusted and kept in a place where they are not likely to be knocked over. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific care guidelines.
Are there regulations regarding burial of ash containers?
Regulations regarding urn burial vary by region and cemetery. Some cemeteries require an urn vault to protect the urn and prevent the ground from caving in. It's important to consult with the cemetery and understand their policies and any local laws that may affect burial.
Can I make my own urn?
Yes, crafting your own urn is a possibility and can be a personal and therapeutic way to honor a loved one. If you choose this route, ensure that the size is appropriate and the material is durable. However, check with the cemetery or columbarium to make sure that home-made urns are accepted for burial or placement.
What if the urn I purchased is too small or too large?
If the urn is too small to hold all the ashes, you may either select a larger one or use additional keepsake urns for the remaining ashes. If the urn is too large, that's typically not a problem as the ashes do not need to fill the urn completely.
Is it legal to keep an ash container at home?
In most countries, it is legal to keep an urn with ashes at home. However, it is always good to check local laws and regulations regarding the storing and display of cremains in residential areas.
Can ashes be divided into multiple containers?
Yes, families often choose to divide ashes amongst several members using keepsake urns or sharing urns. This practice allows multiple loved ones to keep a portion of the remains with them.
Should I seal the ash container?
Whether or not you should seal an urn is a personal choice and may depend on the final disposition of the ashes. Some urns come with a sealable lid and are designed to be permanently sealed, while others have re-openable lids for scattering purposes or if the family wishes to keep the option of adding mementos.
How can I ensure the authenticity of an urn’s material?
To ensure the material's authenticity, buy from a reputable vendor and request a certificate of authenticity if applicable, especially when purchasing urns made of precious materials. Read reviews, ask about the manufacturing process, and confirm the material specifics before making your purchase.
We hope this guide gives you a clearer understanding of ash containers for cremation and helps you make an informed decision on what's right for your loved ones. You can trust us at Eulogy Assistant to guide you through this challenging time and offer support in every way possible. If you found this article helpful, consider sharing it. We also invite you to explore other guides on our platform for more insights on handling similar situations.