What to Know When Buying Cremation Urns

Cremation has become an increasingly popular method for dealing with the remains of loved ones. With cremation, you can choose what to do with the ashes. Some people scatter them in a meaningful place, while others prefer to keep them in a container. If you choose the latter, you’ll need to know a few things about cremation urns.

 

Cremation Urns are Just Containers

Firstly, it’s essential to understand that urns are simply containers. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. You can find urns made from metal, ceramic, glass, and biodegradable materials like bamboo.

The choice of an urn is personal and should reflect the tastes of the person who has passed away or the wishes of their loved ones. It also means any container lying at home will do, especially as a temporary urn or if you want something sentimental or have a tight budget.

 

Capacity Matters Above All Else

When choosing an urn, capacity is the most critical factor to consider. It’s essential to know how much ash the urn can hold. The capacity of an urn is measured in cubic inches. As a general rule of thumb, one pound of a person’s body weight equals one cubic inch of ash. For example, if the deceased weighed 200 pounds, you’ll need an urn with at least 200 cubic inches of capacity.

Exterior measurements only matter for placement. If you plan to place the urn in a specific location, measure the exterior to ensure it will fit into the desired location.

 

You Can Rent an Urn for the Funeral Service

Can’t settle on the right urn or have a limited budget? You can rent an urn for the funeral service. This can be an excellent option for those looking to have a traditional funeral or memorial service. A rented urn can be used for the service, and the ashes can then be transferred to a permanent urn or scattered later.

 

It’s advisable to Prepay for the Urn

Prepaying for an urn can be a good idea. If you prepay for the urn, you won’t have to worry about the expense when the time comes. This can be a way to ease the financial burden on loved ones during a difficult time and also have a say in the urn selection process.

 

You Don’t Have to Buy an Urn from a Funeral Home

Finally, know that you don’t have to buy an urn from a funeral home. There are many options available online or from other retailers. It’s important to research the options and choose a reputable seller.

This is another reason to prepay to avoid rushing into a decision or being coerced into an expensive purchase.

When you’re ready to buy, it’s best to choose an urn made in the US. American-made urns are typical of better quality and have stricter manufacturing standards. You can also choose an urn made from eco-friendly materials, such as bamboo or biodegradable materials.

If you need a cremation service in Westbury, NY, reach out to local providers to learn more about the available options. By taking the time to make a thoughtful decision, you can find an urn that is both meaningful and appropriate for your needs.