The passing of a loved one is a challenging time. Amidst the emotional turmoil, you may find yourself tasked with the practical responsibility of selecting a cremation urn. You might be asking, "How do I determine the right size cremation urn to order?" This post will guide you through the process, ensuring that you make a thoughtful choice during this sensitive period.
Understanding Cremation Urn Sizing
First, let's understand the basic principle of urn sizing. The general rule of thumb is that you need one cubic inch of urn space for each pound of body weight. For instance, if your loved one weighed 150 pounds, you would need an urn with a capacity of 150 cubic inches. However, this is a guideline, not a hard rule. When in doubt, it's better to opt for a slightly larger urn.
Cremation Urn Categories
Now, let's delve into the different categories of urn sizes. This will help us determine which size is the most suitable for your needs. Here is a simple sizing chart:
- Keepsake Urns (1-30 cubic inches): Keepsake urns are small urns used to hold a small portion of ashes. They're often used when ashes are shared among family members or when some of the ashes are scattered.
- Small Urns (30-50 cubic inches): Small urns are suitable for children or for pets. They can also be used as secondary urns when the ashes are divided among family members.
- Medium Urns (50-120 cubic inches): Medium urns are suitable for most children and small adults (under 100 pounds).
- Standard Urns (120-220 cubic inches): Standard urns can accommodate the ashes of adults weighing up to 220 pounds.
- Large Urns (220+ cubic inches): Large urns are needed for adults who weighed more than 220 pounds.
The Correct Capacity
Once you've determined the general size category, consider the specific urn capacity. For example, if your loved one weighed 180 pounds, a standard urn may not be sufficient. You may need to look at larger urns.
The Purpose of the Cremation Urn
Next, consider the urn's purpose. Will it be displayed, buried, or placed in a columbarium? Each of these choices may influence the size and type of urn you choose. For instance, some cemeteries or columbaria have specific size or material requirements.
It's also crucial to consider the urn's material. Different materials have different durability levels, which could influence the urn's size. For example, metal urns are typically more robust than ceramic ones, so they might be a better choice if you need a larger urn.
Make It Personal
Remember, choosing an urn is a deeply personal decision. It's essential to take your time and select an urn that feels right to you, considering both the size and the design. This urn will be a lasting tribute to your loved one, so it should reflect their personality and the love you shared.
In conclusion, determining the right size urn involves understanding the relationship between body weight and urn capacity, knowing the different urn sizes, and considering the urn's purpose and material. We hope this guide has made the process a little easier for you during this challenging time.
Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Reach out to professionals who can provide guidance and support, helping you navigate this process with sensitivity and respect.
