There are many different types of cremation urns for sale in the market today, so it could be hard for you to decide what to get at a moment’s notice. And that’s not surprising because the demand for cremation over a burial is on the rise in recent times. What should you choose for your loved one’s ashes so that you can honor them with grace?
When you’re shopping for an urn for the “cremains” or cremation remains of your loved one, it would help to look beyond the style. Although the urn’s form is the first thing that you’ll see as it will catch your eye, it’s also vital to assess the functionality of the material. This is particularly important if you intend to display the urn in your house or if you’re planning to have it on display outside, where it’s exposed to the elements. Check out what is the best type of urn for ashes below.
The Most Common Materials Used for Urns
The type of material you choose will depend on your intention. For instance, if you plan to keep the urn on display in your home, you’re likely to pass down this urn from one generation to the next. In this instance, a durable cremation urn is necessary. You need a material that will last for many years like metal.
By the same token, if you’re planning to have your loved one’s remains buried outdoors, you could opt for a biodegradable urn that will not harm the environment. Similarly, if you just intend to scatter the ashes, a temporary urn that won’t break the bank is ideal because you will just need it for that particular moment. With that said, here are the most common materials used for urns:
- Porcelain
- Marble
- Ceramic
- Crystal
- Wood
- Stone
- Resin
- Stainless steel
- Brass
- Glass
- Bronze
- Fiber cellulose
- Leather
- Plastic
- Biodegradable
5 Highly Popular Urns Today
Those who opt for cremation services as the final disposition method for their loved one will inevitably have to pick an urn. When the services are done, the ashes are placed in a disposable urn, usually inside a disposable plastic container or box. However, if the family has an urn of choice, they can coordinate with the funeral director and use that. Below are the top-selling urn designs:
- Wooden Urn
This is one of the most traditional materials, having been around since ancient times. Wood comes in different variants, hues, stains, grains, and finishes. Popular wood materials are:
- Mahogany
- Oak
- Maple
- Cedar
- Pine
- Birch
- Hickory
- Cherry
- Bamboo
- Polar
- Rosewood
- Koa
Notably, hardwoods tend to be more pricey than softwoods. For personalization, you can opt to customize the wooden urn with engravings and other painting embellishments. For instance, you can have the name of the deceased and other personal information laser engraved onto the cover. This is also easy to clean with wood polish.
- Ceramic Urn
This is a popular material because it’s highly versatile. It comes in different designs, patterns, colors, and finishes, making it look attractive. However, this is a delicate material that breaks easily. If you opt for this, you have to place it in a good spot where it won’t drop and get damaged.
Furthermore, one of the perks of ceramic is it’s easy to clean with a damp cloth. Recently, some companies have designed a special living urn. This allows the bereaved family to plant flora like bonsais or houseplants with the ashes to morph it into a living and meaningful memorial.
- Metal Urn
Metal is one of the most durable materials there is. Depending on the treatment, it can be placed indoors or outdoors because of how tough and resilient it is. Typically, metals are made of the following components:
- Stainless steel
- Bronze
- Copper
- Brass
- Pewter
- Welded steel
Usually, metal urns are coated with a layer of paint to help promote longevity. This coating prevents rust so the metal urn could maintain its pristine beauty. Metal urns can be engraved or embossed with personal details. They can also be easily maintained with appropriate metal cleaner and polish to make them last longer.
- Glass Urn
Thanks to modern glass-blowing technology, you can purchase beautiful glass urns that serve as lasting keepsakes. You can opt to have a portion of your loved one’s ashes infused into the urn. In this way, you will get a lasting memento with significant sentimental value.
Moreover, you can opt for customization so the finished product will suit your preferences. This allows you to honor the deceased in an extra special way. This type of urn is an excellent addition to your home because of how elegant and sophisticated it looks. Maintenance is easy with normal glass cleaner and a soft cloth.
- Biodegradable Urn
Last but not the least, because of the Green Movement to have more eco-friendly options, a biodegradable urn is also popular in today’s modern world. Typically, these biodegradable urns come from recycled materials, cellulose fiber, reused paper, sand, or other materials that decompose efficiently.
What Urn Should You Choose
Finding a suitable urn for your loved one on short notice could be very distressing. It seems impossible to make just one choice given that there are too many cremation urn designs to select from. To narrow down your choices, always remember to consider the material of the urn and where you intend to use it. From there, you can select the appropriate color, style, and size.
You can even select an urn that complements your deceased loved one’s personality, or you can also choose one that matches the theme of your abode if you opt to have it displayed in your home. Most of all, don’t pressure yourself because the fact that you’re worried over these urn details exemplifies your love and affection for the deceased. And that is the most important part. When you keep that in mind, the process of selecting the best urn for the ashes will be a lot easier.