How to Choose An Urn

1. Determine the Urn’s Purpose

The type of urn you need depends on how you plan to store, scatter, or memorialize the ashes.

1.1 Will the urn be kept at home?

Display urns should complement your home’s style while preserving the ashes securely.

How to do this:

• Choose an urn made of ceramic, wood, marble, or metal for durability.
• Look for a design that matches your home decor and personal taste.
• Check that the urn has a secure lid or sealing mechanism to prevent spills.

Why it matters:

• Ensures the urn is both visually appealing and practical for display.
• Keeps ashes safe in case of accidental bumps or handling.

1.2 Will the urn be buried?

Some cemeteries have specific requirements for burial urns.

How to do this:

• Confirm if the cemetery requires an urn vault for burial.
• Choose a material that can withstand burial conditions, such as stone, metal, or biodegradable materials.
• If choosing a green burial, opt for an urn made of salt, sand, or natural fibers that will break down naturally.

Why it matters:

• Ensures compliance with cemetery regulations.
• Helps you select an urn that aligns with environmental values.

1.3 Will the ashes be scattered?

If you plan to scatter ashes, a lightweight, portable urn is best.

How to do this:

• Choose a scattering urn with an easy-to-open top or dispersal mechanism.
• If traveling to a scattering location, consider a biodegradable urn that dissolves in water or soil.
• Research local laws and regulations to ensure scattering is permitted at your chosen site.

Why it matters:

• Makes the scattering process easier and more meaningful.
• Prevents legal issues or logistical complications.

1.4 Will the urn be shared among family members?

Smaller keepsake urns allow multiple people to retain a portion of the ashes.

How to do this:

• Consider mini urns or keepsake jewelry to divide the ashes.
• Choose a set of matching urns if multiple family members want a portion.
• Decide whether to mix ashes with other keepsakes like locks of hair or personal notes.

Why it matters:

• Allows family members to keep a personal memorial.
• Creates a more personalized tribute for those who want to stay connected.

2. Choose the Right Size

The size of the urn depends on the total amount of ashes.

2.1 How big should the urn be?

Cremated remains require a specific amount of space, measured in cubic inches.

How to do this:

• Use the standard guideline: one cubic inch of urn space per pound of body weight.
• For an adult, choose an urn with a capacity of at least 200 cubic inches.
• If selecting an urn for multiple people or pets, add up the total required volume.

Why it matters:

• Ensures all remains fit comfortably without overflow.
• Helps avoid purchasing an urn that is too large or too small.

2.2 What if I only need a small portion of ashes?

Keepsake urns and jewelry hold a symbolic amount rather than the full remains.

How to do this:

• Look for mini urns (10-50 cubic inches) for small portions.
• Consider cremation jewelry that holds a few grains of ashes in a secure pendant or bracelet.
• If choosing multiple urns, ensure each one has enough space for its share.

Why it matters:

• Provides options for sharing ashes among family members.
• Offers a personal way to carry a loved one’s memory.

3. Select a Material That Fits Your Needs

Urns come in various materials, each with different durability, aesthetics, and price points.

3.1 What are the most common urn materials?

Each material has benefits depending on where the urn will be kept.

How to do this:

• Choose metal (brass, bronze, or stainless steel) for durability and a polished look.
• Pick wood (oak, walnut, cherry, or mahogany) for a warm, natural feel.
• Select ceramic, glass, or marble for an elegant display urn.
• Opt for biodegradable urns if planning an eco-friendly burial or scattering.

Why it matters:

• Ensures the urn is suitable for its final resting place.
• Matches personal style and long-term preservation needs.

3.2 What material is best for travel?

Some urns are TSA-approved for air travel.

How to do this:

• Choose plastic or lightweight wood urns for easier transport.
• If flying, check TSA regulations and select an urn that can pass through X-rays.
• Carry official documentation or a certificate of cremation when traveling.

Why it matters:

• Prevents issues when flying with ashes.
• Ensures smooth transportation without damage.

4. Consider Customization and Personal Touches

Adding personal details makes the urn a more meaningful tribute.

4.1 Can the urn be engraved?

Many urns allow for name, dates, and meaningful messages.

How to do this:

• Ask about custom engraving for names, dates, and short inscriptions.
• Consider adding symbols, religious icons, or artwork that reflect the deceased’s life.
• If engraving is not an option, attach a personalized nameplate or plaque.

Why it matters:

• Creates a one-of-a-kind tribute.
• Helps ensure the urn is easily identifiable if placed in a columbarium.

4.2 Can I include a photo or keepsakes?

Some urns allow for personal items to be added.

How to do this:

• Choose an urn with a photo frame for a personal touch.
• Look for compartment urns that hold small keepsakes like jewelry, notes, or dried flowers.
• If creating a memory box, select an urn that includes extra storage space.

Why it matters:

• Makes the urn feel more personal and connected to the loved one’s life.
• Provides a space for additional sentimental items.

5. Compare Costs and Purchase Options

Urn prices vary depending on material, customization, and brand.

5.1 How much does an urn cost?

Urns range in price based on quality and features.

How to do this:

• Expect to pay $50 to $300 for standard urns.
• High-end urns made of marble, bronze, or hand-blown glass can cost $500 or more.
• Biodegradable and simple scattering urns can be $50 to $150.

Why it matters:

• Helps find an urn that fits within your budget.
• Ensures you are not overpaying for unnecessary features.

5.2 Where should I buy an urn?

You are not required to buy an urn from a funeral home.

How to do this:

• Compare prices at funeral homes, online retailers, and specialty urn companies.
• If purchasing from a funeral home, request a price list to compare costs.
• Consider handmade or custom urns from artisans if looking for something unique.

Why it matters:

• Helps you get the best value and selection.
• Ensures the urn meets your specific needs without overpaying.

Final Thoughts

Choosing an urn is a deeply personal decision that depends on how you plan to store, scatter, or memorialize the ashes. By considering size, material, purpose, and customization, you can find the perfect urn that honors your loved one in a meaningful way. Take your time, compare options, and choose an urn that feels right for your family.