Benefits of Direct Cremation over Traditional Cremation

Even when you know that your loved one wanted to be cremated, there is still a choice to make when you reach out to cremation services in Biddeford, ME. 

Should you go for direct cremation, or is traditional cremation the better option? This article will help you figure out the correct answer. 

First, what’s in a traditional cremation vs. direct cremation? 

The main difference between the two cremation forms is the timeline and the services involved. While a direct cremation occurs within two to three days after death, things can take a lot longer with traditional cremation. 

Traditional cremation follows a similar path as a traditional burial. It involves working with a funeral home, organizing a viewing, buying or renting a casket, etc. 

But instead of transferring the casket for burial after the service, the body is transferred to a crematorium. 

Benefits of Direct Cremation over Traditional Cremation 

Choosing the right option for you requires understanding the pros and cons of each type of cremation and what your needs are. 

Pros of Direct Cremation 

• It is the cheapest cremation option 
  
• There is no extra funeral expense - the body goes straight to the crematory 
  
• It can be arranged remotely. No need to visit a funeral home 
  
• Remote arrangement allows out-of-state families to ship the remains and hold a memorial service elsewhere. 
  
• Allows quick disposition of the body in an efficient yet dignified manner 
  
• Provides flexibility for families to arrange memorial services for a later date 
  
• There is no need to buy a gravesite or headstone 
  
• Because there is limited traveling and no services, there is a lower negative environmental impact 

Cons of Direct Cremation 

• Direct cremation does not give the family a chance to celebrate the deceased’s life before disposition 
  
• There is a short window for friends to say their final goodbye 
  
• Unless you add a cremation urn to your service package, the remains are returned in a simple temporary cardboard container 

Pros of Traditional Cremation 

• Extra time for family and friends to say goodbye 
  
• It costs less than a traditional burial service (no need for cemetery space) 
  
• Some funeral homes offer rental caskets, reducing casket expenses 

Cons of Traditional Cremation 

• Services and funeral planning makes it more expensive than a direct cremation 
  
• Funeral or memorial services have to happen shortly after the deceased’s passing. 

From the pros and cons, direct cremation is the better option, especially when it comes to cost and flexibility. 

Traditional cremation is better if a final goodbye from family and friends is a greater priority. 

Choosing the Right Cremation Option for your Loved One 

There’s nothing wrong with wanting the best for someone you care about, even after they’ve passed away. 

And with both options offering significant value, it isn’t easy figuring out what will work for you and your loved one. 

Here is where Cremation of Southern Maine can help. We take your circumstances and considerations into the equation and provide a simple answer in a confusing time. 

As a leading cremation service provider in Biddeford, ME, our professionals are at your service 24/7, ready to serve. Contact us via phone call or visit our location today to start the befitting arrangement your loved one deserves.