Introduction
Selecting an urn for the remains of a loved one involves many important decisions, with size being one of the most critical ones. How do you determine what size urn you require?
This guide will provide the answers: it outlines size conversions as well as keepsake urns that may be an option for you.
Understanding Urn Size Conversions
Urns are measured in litres, which represents their volume. As a general guideline, one pound of body weight pre-cremation corresponds to approximately one cubic inch of ash produced after cremation. The average amount of ash after the cremation of an adult is about 3 to 3.5 litres. For a child, this will be 0.8 to 2 litres.
If possible, choose an urn larger than what your calculations indicate as this will ensure sufficient space.
Types of Urns Based on Size
Standard Urns for Adults: A standard adult urn typically holds 3.3 litres, making them suitable for the remains of an average adult. They come in various styles and materials such as ceramic, metal, wood and glass for your convenience.
Oversized Urns:
Oversized (extra-large) urns have capacities exceeding 3.3 litres, typically 4.9 litres or more. They are ideal for individuals weighing more than 200 pounds as well as holding two people's remains together (known as companion urns).
Small or Medium Urns:
Medium-sized urns can hold anywhere between 1.6-2.5 litres, making them suitable for a child, teenager or partial remains.
Keepsake Urns:
Keepsake Urns are small urns designed to hold only a portion of ashes (typically up to 0.8 litres) after burial or scattering; they're often used by families to share between several members when scattering or burying much of them elsewhere.
Finding an Appropriate Urn
Selecting the proper size urn is not only practical but also holds significant symbolic meaning when placing your loved one's remains into its final resting place. Here are a few considerations:
Body Weight Before Cremation:
As was stated previously, one effective way of determining an urn size is taking the deceased's pre-cremation weight into consideration.
Multiple Sets of Ashes:
When planning to store multiple sets of ashes together in one urn - such as couples or siblings - consider investing in an oversized companion urn.
Ashes to Share:
If family or friends wish to divide the ashes evenly among themselves, several keepsake urns might be appropriate.
Scattering:
If you plan on scattering some or all of the ashes, a smaller urn or biodegradable scattering tube may be required.
Children or Pets:
For children or pets, the appropriate urn size depends on their weight. Small or medium-sized urns tend to work best; however, exact specifications will depend on each situation.
Conclusion
Understanding urn sizes and factors influencing their choice is of utmost importance when selecting an urn for a loved one's remains. From standard or keepsake models to large capacity options, you need one that not only holds their remains but serves as an appropriate tribute in their memory.