Urns for Cremation

With more people opting for cremation, the demand for cremation urns has significantly increased. Cremation urns serve as a meaningful relic of the deceased, preserving their remains in a beautiful and symbolic manner. But how do you choose the right one? Let's delve into the world of urns for cremation to help you make the ideal selection.

What is a Cremation Urn?

An Urn is a container designed to permanently hold the cremated remains, known as ashes, of a beloved one who has passed. Cremation urns could be made from various materials like wood, metal, ceramic, glass, or biodegradable substances. They come in many sizes and designs to cater to individual tastes and requirements.

Types of Cremation Urns

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Decorative Urns

These are beautifully designed urns often placed in homes as a visual reminder of the lost loved one. Their design elements range from the simplistic to the extraordinarily detailed, adding aesthetic value to your home décor.

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Keepsake Urns

These are smaller urns used when family members wish to divide the ashes amongst themselves. Keepsake urns are an ideal choice for families that want to share the tangible memory of their loved one.

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Biodegradable Urns

These eco-friendly urns break down naturally over time, making them a popular choice for water burials or land burials. They align with the principles of living a sustainable, environmentally-friendly life.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Urn

Selecting the right urn can feel daunting. Keep in mind the person’s unique tastes, as well as practical factors such as the urn's size and its future location.

Urns for Cremation Example:

For instance, consider a beloved grandmother who loved her garden. A biodegradable urn with seeds embedded in it would be a perfect way to pay tribute to her. It could be buried in her favourite garden spot, where it would eventually decompose, leaving flowers to grow in her memory.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an urn for cremation?

An urn for cremation is a container designed to hold the cremated remains, often referred to as ashes, of a loved one. Urns come in various materials, sizes, and designs, suitable for different preferences, whether for display, burial, or keeping in a columbarium niche.

How do I choose the right size urn?

The size of an urn is measured in cubic inches, and one pound of the deceased's body weight typically equates to one cubic inch of ashes. As a general rule, an adult urn should have a capacity of about 200 cubic inches. For infants or small pets, smaller urns are available.

What are the most common materials used for urns?

Urns can be made from a variety of materials including metal, wood, ceramic, glass, stone, and biodegradable substances. The material often reflects the intended use; for example, biodegradable urns are suitable for environmentally-friendly burials, while metal or ceramic urns may be preferred for display.

Can urns be personalized?

Yes, many urns can be personalized with engravings, photos, or artworks. This could include the loved one's name, dates, a personal message, or symbols that reflect their life or interests.

Is there a difference between an urn and a keepsake urn?

Yes, keepsake urns are smaller than traditional urns and are used to hold only a portion of the ashes. They are ideal for families wishing to share the remains or keep a small remembrance after scattering or burying most of the ashes.

Are all urns suitable for outdoor use?

Not all urns are made to withstand outdoor conditions. For outdoor use or burial, it’s important to choose an urn specifically designed for that purpose, often made from durable materials like stone or metals that resist corrosion.

Can you travel with an urn?

Traveling with an urn is possible, but it is essential to check with the airline or transport authority for their specific policies. In most cases, an urn should be TSA-compliant, meaning it is scannable by X-rays, for air travel.

How long will an urn last?

The durability of an urn depends on its material and environmental exposure. For example, a metal urn kept indoors may last generations, while a biodegradable urn is designed to break down over time when buried.

What happens if an urn is not sealed properly?

An improperly sealed urn can lead to accidental spills or exposure of the ashes to elements. It's key to follow the manufacturer's instructions for sealing and consider consulting with funeral professionals if necessary.

Is it possible to bury an urn?

Yes, urns can be buried, and in fact, there are urns specifically designed for burial that are durable and can degrade naturally if desired. It's important to check with the cemetery about any requirements they may have.

Do I need an urn vault for burial?

Many cemeteries require an urn vault to protect the urn from the weight of the earth and any maintenance equipment that may pass over the grave. An urn vault is a protective container into which the urn is placed before burial.

How do you maintain an urn?

Maintenance for an urn depends on its material. For example, metal urns might require occasional polishing, while wooden urns should be kept away from excessive moisture and direct sunlight to prevent warping or fading.

Can multiple sets of ashes be stored in one urn?

Larger "companion urns" or "double urns" are available that have space for two sets of ashes, suitable for couples or close relatives who wish to rest together.

What should I consider when purchasing an urn for a child or pet?

When purchasing an urn for a child or pet, one should consider the appropriate size, which is typically smaller than adult urns, and think about personal touches that reflect the character or spirit of the beloved child or pet.

Are there eco-friendly urn options available?

Yes, there are eco-friendly urns available, made from biodegradable materials like paper, salt, or sand. These urns are designed to degrade naturally when buried or placed in water.

What is a columbarium and can any urn be placed there?

A columbarium is a structure with small compartments, known as niches, designed to hold urns containing cremated remains. The size and shape of each niche vary, so it is necessary to ensure that the chosen urn fits the dimensions of the niche.

How secure are urns against theft or vandalism?

The security against theft or vandalism depends on the urn's material and location. Heavier urns made of metal or stone may deter theft, and when placed in secure locations such as a locked columbarium or a safe home space, they're less prone to vandalism.

Can urns be used for scattering ashes?

While some urns are designed specifically for display or burial, there are "scattering urns" made with easy-to-open compartments to facilitate the scattering of ashes in a dignified manner.

Is embalming required before cremation and placement in an urn?

Embalming is not required before cremation unless there's a public viewing or a delay in cremation. Once the body is cremated, the ashes can be placed directly into the urn without further preparation.

If a loved one wished for a traditional burial, can we still use an urn?

If a loved one expressed a desire for a burial but was cremated, their ashes can indeed be buried in an urn. You can choose an urn suitable for ground burial, in compliance with any cemetery regulations.

What do I need to know about urns if I'm planning for my own or a loved one's future cremation?

When planning ahead, consider the style and material of the urn in relation to where it will be kept or buried. Think about personalization options, the budget, and whether you want to include space for mementos alongside the ashes. It's also wise to look into local regulations regarding cremation and urn burial or placement.

Choosing cremation urns is a deeply personal decision that requires consideration and care. It's more than just a container for ashes - it's a significant reminder of a person's life, love, and legacy. We hope this guide has provided valuable insight into the different types of urns and factors to consider. Feel free to share this article with family and friends who might find it helpful. Also, explore other guides here on Eulogy Assistant for more supportive resources on remembering and honouring your loved ones.