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These Are the Different Types of Urns for Cremation

It is beneficial to know about the different types of urns for cremation. You can check out our guide right here to learn more.
Types of Urns

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Cremation is expected to reach rates of 59.4% compared to 37.5% for traditional burials. Its simplicity, reduced costs, and emotional significance make it an increasingly popular option.

After the cremation process is complete, the remains are typically placed in an urn. They serve as a container for ashes to be placed in the home, buried, or in a designated storage area.

There are various types of urns to choose from, making the process even more overwhelming. If you understand how to differentiate between them, you can make the right choice to honor your loved ones.

Read on to discover the different urns you can purchase and how to choose the best one.

Types of Urns

There are several different types of urns on the market today. Knowing them all helps you make the best choice.

The main types to be aware of are decorative, biodegradable, companion, and personalized urns. There are also plenty of other, more unique options.

Decorative Urns

Keeping a loved one’s remains at home is one of the most popular uses of cremation urns. If this your intention, consider a decorative urn.

Whatever material they’re made of, they’re a beautiful piece to commemorate your loved one. They’re one of the most expensive options but are long-lasting and easy to pass down from generation to generation.

Biodegradable Urns

As concern for the environment grows, biodegradable urns are becoming more and more popular. They’re often used to scatter remains but can also be buried in a cemetery or family burial plot.

Biodegradable urns eventually become part of the soil. They are designed to nurture the land and avoid any negative environmental impacts.

Companion Urns

Companion urns are an effective option for keeping deceased loved ones together. They come in two varieties; single or double cremation urns.

In a single companion urn, two or more sets of ashes are put together. In a double companion urn, there are two compartments. The ashes are kept separate but remain in the same container forever.

Personalized Urns

Personalizing cremation urns is one of the best ways to commemorate the life of the deceased. The design can:

  • Include a favorite Bible verse or saying
  • Honor military service
  • Showcase a favorite hobby
  • Be based on any other important theme

Choosing a meaningful design allows you to create a piece that will help you and your family fondly remember your deceased loved ones.

Other Options

There are several different urns for ashes that provide a more unique experience and design. Two examples are water-soluble and picture urns.

Water-soluble urns float above a water source. The family and loved ones of the deceased watch as it dissolves and sinks to the bottom.

Picture urns take the shape of a picture frame and allow you to place your favorite picture of the deceased on the outside. They serve not only as a container for ashes but as a memorable keepsake.

Choosing Cremation Urns

There are several questions to ask yourself before choosing urns for cremation. Consider each one carefully before making a final decision.

What Were the Final Wishes of the Deceased?

This point may seem obvious, but it’s still worth considering. Only consider cremation and a cremation urn if the deceased expressed a desire for it.

Your loved one’s wishes may also help you decide among the many different types of urns. For example, if they wanted to be buried with a significant other, consider a companion urn.

How Much Am I Willing to Spend?

Cremation tends to be less expensive process than a funeral, ranging from $500-$2000. This doesn’t take into account extra costs such as funeral services or transporting the remains.

These savings are one reason cremation has risen in popularity, but the cost of the urn itself is still worth considering.

Factors that affect the price of cremation urns include design, materials, and size. Larger urns with rarer materials and more intricate designs will cost more.

What Will I Use the Urn For?

Choosing what to do with a loved one’s remains is a deeply personal decision but should be made before purchasing an urn for cremation. This will help you decide what type you need to achieve your intended purpose.

Several types of urns are made with sturdy materials that can last a lifetime in your home or another important location.

Most options will also work for anyone who wants to spread the ashes, but try to choose one that’s light enough to carry. Also, consider using a biodegradable option to let the urn decompose when the process is complete.

There are also regulations relating to when and where you can travel with cremation urns. Check them before you go on a trip and choose an urn that can go with you wherever you need it to.

What Size Do I Need?

Cremation urns come in an array of sizes to fit the remains of any individual. Before choosing one, consider how large it must be.

If you intend to display the urn, ensure that it’s the right size for the location. Check that it won’t take up too much space but is large enough to be easily visible.

Make sure that the urn is large enough to house your loved one’s remains. Consult with a professional to see what size you’ll need.

What Style, Materials, and Designs Do I Want?

The only limit to how much cremation urns can be personalized is your imagination and the abilities of the professionals you hire. Having a plan ahead of time ensures you get the look you want.

Cremation urns should be pleasant to the eye while also being able to withstand any damage from weather, usage, or age. Avoid flimsy materials and overly delicate designs.

Urns are more than containers for ashes; they commemorate the deceased and help with the grieving process. That’s why it’s so important to choose the right one for your desires and budget.

Where Can I Get Cremation Urns?

Knowing the different types of urns lets you choose the best option to commemorate your loved ones. There are options in a variety of sizes and designs to fit any budget, making them highly personalizable. 

Before choosing an urn, consider the wishes of the deceased and your own desires and budget. If you do, it will serve as a treasured keepsake for years to come.

Choosing where to have the ceremony performed is just as important as deciding how to store the remains. Browse our cremation services and contact us for more information today.

Marlaena Gonzales

Marlaena Gonzales

Funeral Director
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