Choosing the right urn size is an essential part of planning for a loved one’s remains. Whether you are considering traditional cremation or aquamation, the amount of ashes produced can vary. This guide will help you understand how urn sizes are determined and provide a simple calculator to make the process easier.
How to Choose the Right Urn Size: Cremation and Aquamation Guide
Urns are typically measured in cubic inches. The general rule of thumb is:
1 pound (0.45 kg) of body weight before passing = 1 cubic inch (16.387 cm³) of urn capacity
However, this measurement can change based on the method of disposition:
- Traditional Cremation produces a predictable amount of remains, with an average adult requiring 180 to 220 cubic inches.
- Aquamation (Water Cremation) tends to leave slightly more remains—about 20% more volume than traditional cremation.
How to Use the Urn Size Calculator
To make this process simple, use the Urn Size Calculator below. Enter the person’s weight in lbs or kgs, select the cremation method, and choose the urn type to see the recommended urn size.
Choosing the Right Urn Type
There are different types of urns depending on how you plan to store or scatter the ashes.
Standard Urns
- Holds 100% of the ashes
- Typically 180-220 cubic inches for an adult
- Used for home storage, columbarium niches, or burial
Keepsake Urns
- Small urns holding a portion of the ashes
- Typically 10-50 cubic inches
- Ideal for sharing remains among family or scattering
Companion Urns
- Designed for two people
- Typically 350-400 cubic inches
- Used for couples who wish to remain together
Scattering Tubes
- Temporary urns for ash scattering ceremonies
- Typically 50-200 cubic inches
- Often biodegradable for eco-friendly disposal
What to Consider When Selecting an Urn
- Final Resting Place: Will it be kept at home, placed in a columbarium, buried, or scattered?
- Material: Urns come in wood, metal, ceramic, glass, and biodegradable materials.
- Size Compatibility: Ensure it fits in columbarium niches or burial vaults if required.
Learn more about urns and ashes in the posts linked below:
