How to Choose the Right Urn for a Loved One

24th Feb 2025

Choosing an urn for a loved one is a deeply personal decision. Whether you're looking for a traditional, decorative, or eco-friendly option, this guide will help you find the perfect urn to honor their memory.

1. Consider the Final Resting Place

Home Display – Choose a decorative urn that complements your space. Options include wood, ceramic, metal, and marble.
Burial – In most cemeteries, urns must be placed inside of an urn vault prior to burial. Choose an urn that fits inside of your chosen urn vault. If you are choosing an alternative-type burial, a biodegradable urn might be a good choice (for green burials).
Scattering Ashes – Use a scattering urn or biodegradable urn for easy release. If you are going to have multiple family members scatter at a funeral or celebration of life, consider scattering tubes.

2. Choose the Right Size

Urns come in different sizes, measured in cubic inches (1 lb of healthy body weight = approx. 1 cubic inch). Standard urns hold 200–220 cubic inches, and are suitable for most adults. Companion urns, keepsake urns, and pet urns are available for specific needs.

3. Select the Material

Wood – Warm, natural feel, good for home display.
Metal (Brass, Bronze, Aluminum) – Durable and elegant, good for home display.
Ceramic/Glass – Artistic, fragile, ideal for display.
Stone/Marble – Heavy, classic, often used for burial.
Biodegradable – Eco-friendly, perfect for water or ground burials.

4. Personalization & Engraving

Adding a name, date, or meaningful quote can make the urn extra special. Many urns allow engraving or photo inserts to create a unique tribute.

5. Special Considerations

✅ Traveling with Ashes? Choose a TSA-approved urn.
✅ Sharing Among Family? Keepsake urns or jewelry can hold small portions.
✅ For a Beloved Pet? Pet-specific urns are designed for furry companions.