Choosing the right size cremation urn is an important step in memorializing a loved one. The size of the urn depends on the person’s body weight before cremation. Below, we’ll explain how to calculate the appropriate size in both the imperial and metric systems, so no matter where you are, you’ll have a clear understanding of the right urn size for your needs.
Understanding Urn Capacity
The general rule is simple:
- Imperial: You need 1 cubic inch of urn space per pound of body weight.
- Metric: You need 1 cubic centimeter of urn space per kilogram of body weight.
Conversion:
1 pound ≈ 0.4536 kilograms
1 cubic inch ≈ 16.387 cubic centimeters
Example Calculation (Imperial):
Let’s say the deceased weighed 175 pounds. Based on the rule of 1 cubic inch per pound, you would need an urn with at least 175 cubic inches of space.
Calculation:
175 pounds = 175 cubic inches of urn space.
Example Calculation (Metric):
If the deceased weighed 80 kilograms, you would need an urn that holds at least 80 cubic centimeters.
Calculation:
80 kilograms = 80 cubic centimeters of urn space.
Summary Chart for Urn Sizing
Here’s a chart to guide you on the recommended urn sizes based on both pounds and kilograms:
| Person’s Weight (lbs) | Person’s Weight (kg) | Recommended Urn Size (cubic inches) | Recommended Urn Size (cubic centimeters) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 lbs | 45 kg | 100 cubic inches | 1,638 cubic cm |
| 125 lbs | 57 kg | 125 cubic inches | 2,048 cubic cm |
| 150 lbs | 68 kg | 150 cubic inches | 2,457 cubic cm |
| 175 lbs | 80 kg | 175 cubic inches | 2,866 cubic cm |
| 200 lbs | 91 kg | 200 cubic inches | 3,277 cubic cm |
| 225 lbs | 102 kg | 225 cubic inches | 3,686 cubic cm |
| 250 lbs | 113 kg | 250 cubic inches | 4,096 cubic cm |
| 300 lbs | 136 kg | 300 cubic inches | 4,915 cubic cm |
Special Considerations:
- Keepsake Urns: These smaller urns are designed to hold only a portion of the ashes. Typically, keepsake urns hold between 1 to 50 cubic inches.
- Companion Urns: These urns are for two people, often with a capacity of at least 400 cubic inches.
- Child Urns: These vary based on the weight of the child. For example, a child weighing 50 pounds would need an urn with 50 cubic inches of capacity.
Other Factors:
- Fractional Keepsakes: If multiple family members are keeping part of the ashes, smaller urns or keepsakes are typically chosen. The same weight-to-capacity formula applies, so if you plan to divide the ashes equally, you can use the same calculations to determine the size of each smaller urn.
- Additional Items: If you plan to place other items (like keepsakes, notes, or jewelry) inside the urn with the ashes, consider opting for a slightly larger size to accommodate those.
Selecting the right urn size can seem daunting, but it’s a straightforward process when you know the person’s weight. Use the chart or the simple formulas provided to calculate the required urn size. It’s always better to choose an urn with a little extra space rather than one that might be too small.
When in doubt, many urn retailers offer guidance, and you can also consult with a funeral director to ensure you select the perfect urn for your needs.
This guide should help you navigate the process of choosing the correct urn size in both imperial and metric systems with confidence.
