How to Determine the Right Size Urn for Your Ashes

When a loved one passes away, choosing the right urn to hold their cremated remains can be an important decision. One crucial aspect of choosing the right urn is selecting the appropriate size. Here are a few quick tips to help you determine the size of urn that you'll need:

1. Determine the volume of ashes

The first step is to determine the approximate volume of ashes you will need to accommodate in the urn. The volume of ashes produced during cremation depends on the weight of the deceased. As a general rule, one cubic inch of urn space is needed for every pound of body weight. For example, a person who weighed 180 pounds at the time of death would require an urn with a capacity of at least 180 cubic inches. It's important to note that this calculation is only an estimate. The actual amount of ashes also depends on bone density. Also, realize that some urns may have a slightly larger or smaller capacity than their stated size.
If you are still unsure, you can consult the crematorium or funeral home that handled the cremation, or by using an online calculator to estimate the amount of ashes you will receive based on the person's weight.

2. When in doubt get an urn that holds a bit more than the estimated amount of ashes

Most urns will provide a capacity in cubic inches or liters, which will give you an idea of how much space is available. It's important to choose an urn with a capacity that is larger than the volume of ashes you will need to accommodate. This will ensure that there is enough space to hold all of the cremated remains comfortably. In some cases, you may want to choose an urn with a much larger capacity than you need in case you decide to add additional items to the urn later on. Just remember, as a general rule, one cubic inch of urn space is needed for every pound of body weight of the deceased.

3. Consider the size and shape of the urn

Once you know the volume of ashes you will need to accommodate, consider the size and shape of the urn. Urns come in a variety of sizes and shapes, ranging from mini urns and small keepsake urns to larger full-size urns and big companion urns.

Think about where the urn will be displayed or stored, as well as any personal preferences or cultural traditions that may influence the style of urn you choose. There are urns that hang on the wall or can be displayed on a memorial shelf. To get ideas of different personalized urns available, checkout LifeSong Milestones’ website here.

4. Consider additional factors

There may be additional factors to consider when selecting an urn size. For example, if you plan to bury the urn in a cemetery plot, you may need to choose an urn that fits within the dimensions of the plot. If you plan to travel with the urn or transport it by airplane, you may need to choose an urn that meets airline regulations for size and weight.

Conclusion

Selecting the right size urn for your loved one's ashes involves determining the volume of ashes, considering the size and shape of the urn, determining the capacity of the urn, and taking into account any additional factors that may influence your choice. It's important to choose an urn that is both functional and meaningful, providing a fitting tribute to your loved one.

For more help, check out our blog, “How to Find a Cremation Urn that Fits Your Needs.” Other blogs that may be of interest are, “How to Find the Right Pet Cremation Urn,” and, “Cremation Urns for Men and Boys.”