How to Choose The Right Cremation Urn

There are thousands of options to choose from when deciding the right cremation urn for you or your loved one. Based on the expertise of cremation services in Biddeford, ME, here are some practical steps to streamline the process. 

STEP 1 - How do you want to use the urn? 

We know urns are containers for holding cremated remains of the deceased. But the story doesn’t end there. What do you plan on doing with the urn once the ashes are inside? 

To help you narrow it down, here are some common possibilities and the urns that fit. 

You want to keep the urn at home 

The best urns for this purpose are durable, sturdy, and easy to clean. You can find several made from varying materials like wood, metal, composite resin, or stone. 

You plan on scattering the ashes 

The correct urn for this purpose depends on what you wish to do after scattering the ashes. 

A biodegradable urn works best if you are scattering the ashes over water or plan to bury it. However, some families place keepsakes and flowers inside the urn after scattering. In this case, a durable material works best. 

Whatever you decide, a scattering urn needs to have a top opening to release the cremains easily. 

It is for water or natural burial 

For this, you need an urn made from a material that naturally breaks down without leaving a trace. That’s a biodegradable urn made from organic and recycled materials like plants, bamboo, and paper. 

You want to put the urn in a columbarium 

Aside from the material, size is the most critical consideration in the scenario. Columbarium niches have specific sizes, so make sure to find something that fits. 

As for material, mausoleums and cemeteries have guidelines for what is acceptable, so feel free to ask before buying the urn. 

You want to share the remains among family members 

In this scenario, smaller is better. There are keepsakes or sharing urns for this purpose. We also have cremation jewelry if you wish to keep your loved one’s ashes on you at all times. 

STEP 2 - What size do you need? 

As we’ve discussed, the right size ultimately comes down to how you intend to use the urn. 

That said, most scenarios require an adult size urn. For this, you need an urn with at least one cubic inch of space for every pound in body weight. 

It means if the person weighed 180 pounds before cremation, you need an urn with at least 180 inches capacity. 

Also, when you are not sure of the right size, always go with the larger size urn. 

These two steps cover everything you need to choose an appropriate urn. Other considerations like cost and design depend on your taste and preferences. 

For additional tips on selecting an urn or help setting up other aspects of the cremation process, reach out to Cremation of Southern Maine. We provide cremation services in Biddeford, ME, and our professionals are available 24/7. You can contact us via phone right now or visit our office for an in-person consultation.