If you are wondering how you can properly store human ashes, there are several ways you can properly store the remains of your loved one.
In this article, you will learn how and where to do this.
Since more and more people are choosing to cremate and keep the ashes, it is only sensible that people should know what to do with the ashes after cremation.
And a grieving person should not have to comb the top and bottom of the web to get information on how to store cremated remains, so this article is here to navigate the process.
Understand The Cremation Process
Before going into the different storing options for human ashes, you should understand what goes into the cremation process.
Usually, when you hire the services of a funeral home, they handle the entire process so the bereaved do not have to worry about the legalese and logistics.
All the paperwork and permits are done on behalf of the bereaved. Furthermore, the funeral home will serve as the cremation service provider. So, again, you do not have to handle this aspect yourself.
The funeral director will secure and transfer the body to the funeral home for the direct cremation service and send a death certificate of your loved one to you.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
In Canada and the U.S, there are legal requirements for storing and handling human ashes. Therefore, you should familiarize yourself with these legal prerequisites beforehand.
These legal requirements specify how the ashes must be stored, transported, or scattered, to ensure that the cremains are treated with respect.
Ethical considerations involve respecting the deceased wishes. The deceased may have given instructions regarding how his or her body should be handled.
Furthermore, the cultural and religious traditions of the deceased and their family should be honored.
Choosing the Right Container to Store Human Ashes
Selecting the right container for human ashes is a personal decision that should not be taken lightly. You should take your time and consider several options before picking one.
Here are some of the types of urns or containers that can be used to store human ashes.
Traditional Urns
Traditional urns are typically made from long-lasting materials, such as wood, ceramic, and metals. They are designed to be durable and aesthetically pleasing.
Biodegradable Urns
Biodegradable urns are made from eco-friendly materials. This type of urn is perfect for those who wish for their “cremains” to return to the earth.
In many countries, biodegradable urns are becoming more popular. This is because they offer a respectful and environmentally conscious way to say goodbye.
Commemorative Keepsake and Jewelry Urns
A commemorative keepsake is an object that has sentimental value, like a locket that belonged to your mother. This option is much smaller than other more traditional urns.
With this option to store human ashes, every member of the family can keep a portion of the ashes.
A jewelry urn is an intimate or personal way to carry a portion of the ashes with you, and each of your siblings or children can do the same.
Things to Consider When Picking a Container
There are several things to consider when you choose a container to store human ashes, and the material tends to be the most important of these factors.
If you are interested in long-term preservation, then materials like ceramic and metal are a sensible choice.
However, if you are environmentally conscious, then biodegradable urns are the better option.
Additionally, the urn size is another important aspect to consider. You do not want to pick an urn size that is too small to carry the ashes.
This may sound obvious, but many people are unaware that, typically, an urn size should be based on one cubic inch per pound of body weight.
Lastly, remember that customization is an option with any urn. This adds a personal or meaningful touch.
The urn can be customized with engraving, photos, or inscriptions that are reflective of the life, personality, or preference of the deceased.
Indoor Storage Options
Indoor storage is another factor that should be considered when ensuring that you store human ashes properly.
Storing ashes somewhere in your home allows you to keep a loved one close, but you should pick a location that is practical.
The spot you chose should be a secure area that does not experience a lot of foot traffic to prevent accidental tipping or damage.
Common ideal locations for urns include:
- Bookshelves
- Mantelpieces
- A dedicated space within the bedroom or parlor
Additionally, ensure the surface you plan to place the urn on is balanced or stable, and make sure that the urn is protected from direct sunlight and humidity. This can affect the urn’s contents over time and damage the urn itself.
Creating a Memorial Space
Placing an urn in a memorial space in your home brings a personal touch; you can honor the deceased’s life by placing personal items and mementos around the urns.
Items such as photographs, favorite belongings, or sentimental items can be used.
Furthermore, personalizing the display not only adorns the area where the urn is, but it is also a way of paying tribute to the deceased.
A memorial space creates a comfortable space for friends and family to remember and honor the memory of the deceased.
Outdoor Storage Options For Cremation Ashes
Outdoor storage options for human ashes offer various ways to store, honor, and remember a loved one.
Burial in a cemetery or memorial garden
Burying the ashes in a cemetery or memorial garden is a popular traditional way to store the cremains outdoors. Of course, this involves selecting a plot.
The plots can be family land or a special memorial garden. Although there is a standard practice for burying urns, the regulations and costs differ by cemetery.
Scattering ashes
Another popular option is scattering the ashes of your loved one.
This option often connotes a return to the earth or nature, as well as connecting the individual with the place in question.
However, you cannot scatter the ashes anywhere; you have to abide by the local regulations.
There are local laws for how and where you can scatter ashes. You have to obtain a permit and ensure that the location you choose is in line with legal guidelines.
Many people are not aware of this, but spreading or casting is not the only method of ash scattering. Some of the locations for scattering are bodies of water or scattering gardens, where you can trench or rake the ashes into the soil.
Using a Columbarium
A columbarium is a building with niches created to house urns. A columbarium offers a communal way to store ashes.
A major reason why many people keep their loved one’s ashes in a columbarium is the protection from elemental factors it offers.
Furthermore, this option provides a dedicated space for remembrance. You should consider the location within the columbarium, maintenance cost, and visibility when selecting a niche.
This option provides a designated area for family and friends to visit and pay their respects.
Tips Regarding the Handling Cremation Ashes
Many people have never handled cremation ashes or urns before, and have no idea how to do so.
Below, you’ll find two key tips to help you with this experience, at what is usually under very difficult circumstances.
Protect the Ashes
Protect ashes from environmental damages involving temperature and humidity. Most importantly, avoid direct sunlight exposure and extreme conditions; they can affect both the urn and the ash.
Ashes should be stored in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture-related damage and degradation.
Ensure Regular Cleaning & Maintenance
This is not always obvious, and many people underestimate the importance of regular cleaning and maintenance.
This preserves structural integrity and appearance.
Remember that different urn materials require different care. For instance, wooden urns may require occasional oiling to maintain their finish. However, metal urns do not need that; rather they need to be polished to keep their shine.
FAQs on How to Properly Store Human Ashes
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions that people have regarding how to properly store human ashes.
How should human ashes be stored?
One common way you can store human ashes is by keeping them in a safe deposit box. Usually, the bank will be named as the owner of the box, so the key will be with them.
That way, the ashes of your loved one will be untouched and safe. The box can be made available to you per request.
Alternatively, you could turn the cremation ashes into a piece of cremation jewelry to remember and honor your loved one.
Should human ashes be kept in a plastic bag?
You can temporarily keep human ashes in a plastic bag.
However, you must ensure that the plastic bag is tightly packed to prevent the entry of contaminants.
Also, when opening the bag, do not tear it. Tearing the bag may cause the contents to spill.
How long can you keep human ashes at home?
It is safe to keep ashes at your home.
There is no time limit for that.
However, for the long term, you should consider burning the remains at a cemetery or you could scatter the ashes at a place of significance.
Summing Up: How to Properly Store Human Ashes
From this article, you now know how to store cremation ashes, and what the best practices are when doing so.
You may decide to use an urn to store your ashes like a handmade wooden cremation urn, columbarium, or to make commemorative memorabilia that can be shared between the whole family.
We’ve also touched upon how to handle cremated ashes.
Doing this, as well as following best practice highlighted throughout this article, will give you peace of mind because you know that you handled your loved one’s “cremains” safely and respectfully.