FAQs

Cremation Urn FAQs – Capacity, Engraving, Care & More

Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions page. Whether you are choosing a cremation urn for an adult's ashes, looking for personalised engraving, considering a scatter tube or simply need advice, we are here to help.

Click a category to expand it, then select a question to read the answer. If you need further assistance, please contact us.

1. Choosing the Right Urn and Capacity
What are adult cremation urns?

Adult cremation urns are containers designed to hold the cremated remains of an adult. They provide a secure and dignified way to keep ashes at home or, where suitable, before burial or scattering. You can browse our adult cremation urn collection here.

What size urn do I need for an adult's ashes?

Most standard adult urns have a capacity of approximately 3 litres. We have been supplying cremation urns for over 10 years, and our standard adult urns, typically ranging from 3 to 3.3 litres, are regularly supplied to funeral directors to hold the full ashes of an adult.

The volume of cremated ashes can vary from person to person, so occasionally a larger-capacity urn may be required. However, in our experience, our standard adult urns are suitable for most typical requirements.

If you are unsure which size is right for your needs, please contact us. We will be happy to offer guidance and help you choose a suitable urn for your loved one.

How can I estimate the urn capacity required?

A commonly used funeral-industry guideline is to allow approximately 1 cubic inch of urn capacity for every 1 lb (0.45 kg) of body weight before cremation.

Using this guideline, a person who weighed 90 kg would require approximately 195 cubic inches, equivalent to around 3.2 litres. This is an estimate rather than a guarantee, as the actual volume of cremated remains varies between individuals.

Why does the volume of ashes vary between individuals?

Cremated remains consist mainly of processed bone fragments and minerals. Their volume varies with skeletal size, bone structure and individual characteristics. Body weight alone cannot accurately predict the final volume.

What if the ashes do not fit in my chosen urn?

We understand how important it is to find a suitable urn for your loved one. Although it is very rare, the volume of cremated ashes can occasionally be greater than expected.

If the ashes do not fit in your chosen urn, please don't worry. Simply contact us, and we will do our best to help you find a suitable solution. We offer larger urns with capacities of 6 and 7 litres, which can generally accommodate the ashes of two adults. These larger urns are also sometimes chosen for a single loved one when the volume of ashes is unusually large.

We are here to help and will guide you through the available options with care and understanding. You can contact us here.

Are urn capacities measured in litres or cubic inches?

Both measurements are used. One litre is approximately 61 cubic inches.

  • 3 litres: approximately 183 cubic inches
  • 3.2 litres: approximately 195 cubic inches
  • 3.5 litres: approximately 214 cubic inches

These figures are approximate. We cannot guarantee that a particular urn will accommodate all the ashes of an individual based on body weight alone.

What is the difference between a full-size urn and a keepsake urn?

A full-size adult urn is designed to hold the full cremated remains of an adult. A keepsake urn is smaller and holds a small portion of ashes, for example as a personal remembrance or to share among family members. Browse our keepsake urn collection.

2. Urn Materials, Designs and Features
What materials are your urns made from?

Our collection includes a variety of materials and styles, including metal urns, wooden urns and caskets, granite urns, and biodegradable cardboard scatter tubes. Please refer to each product page for the exact material and specifications. You can browse our adult urn collection to explore the range.

What designs are available?

Our collection includes traditional and contemporary designs, decorative and floral patterns, symbolic motifs and simple, elegant styles. Availability varies by product. Browse our adult cremation urns to see the current range.

How are the colours and finishes applied to metal urns?

Some metal urns feature decorative coatings, which may include epoxy resin finishes, to create distinctive colours, textures and patterns. The finish varies by design; please check the individual product description for details.

Are your urns handcrafted or exclusive?

Many of our designs feature handcrafted details and distinctive decorative finishes. Availability and design features vary, so please refer to the individual product listing for specific information.

Do your urns have secure lids?

Many of our urns feature threaded lids designed to close securely. Construction varies by model, so please check the product description for details. If you wish to seal an urn permanently, make sure the material and lid design are suitable for your chosen sealing method.

Do you offer keepsake urns?

Yes, we offer selected smaller urns designed to hold a portion of cremated ashes. These can be suitable for sharing ashes among family members or keeping a personal remembrance. Please check the capacity and description of the individual product. Browse our keepsake urns here.

Do you sell cremation jewellery?

Yes, you can browse our cremation jewellery collection. Selected pieces are designed to hold a small amount of ashes or another small keepsake, providing a personal way to remember a loved one.

3. Personalised Engraving
Do you offer personalised engraving on cremation urns?

Yes, we offer personalised engraving on selected urns. Engraving is not available on every design. Where available, the engraving options and the price, including engraving, will be displayed on the product page.

Browse our adult cremation urn collection to explore available designs and personalisation options.

How do I provide my engraving instructions?

You can enter your personalised wording at checkout when ordering an urn with engraving. Please check names, dates, spelling and wording carefully before submitting your order.

Can I send my engraving details after placing my order?

Yes. If you have selected engraving but cannot find where to enter your wording, you can complete your order and email us the details afterwards.

If engraving details are missing or anything is unclear, we will contact you to confirm the details before proceeding. You can email support@urnswithlove.co.uk.

Can I contact you before ordering to discuss engraving?

Of course. If you are unsure about the wording or available options, please email or telephone us before placing your order. We will be happy to help. Visit our contact page for details.

Is engraving included in the price?

Where engraving is offered, the applicable price, including engraving, will be displayed on the product page. Please select the relevant engraving option when ordering.

4. Burial, Biodegradability and Outdoor Use
Can cremation urns be buried?

Many urns can be buried, but suitability depends on the material and the rules of the cemetery or burial ground. Please check the requirements before ordering, particularly for woodland or natural burials.

Will metal urns biodegrade when buried?

No. Metal urns are not biodegradable. Some metals may corrode over time, depending on the material and conditions underground, but they will not break down in the same way as wood.

Will wooden urns biodegrade when buried?

Wood generally decomposes over time when buried in soil. The rate depends on the type of wood, its finish and the burial conditions. Not every wooden urn is certified as biodegradable, so please check the burial ground's requirements.

Can I keep a wooden urn indoors?

Yes. Wooden urns are well suited to indoor display and, with reasonable care, can last for many years. Keep the urn in a dry environment, away from excessive moisture and direct sunlight, to help preserve its appearance.

Which urns are best for outdoor use?

We recommend granite urns for outdoor placement. Granite is a durable natural stone that generally withstands outdoor weather conditions very well, making it an excellent choice for a garden memorial. Browse our granite urn collection.

Can I keep a metal urn outside?

Metal urns may be kept outdoors, but prolonged exposure to rain, moisture, sunlight and changing temperatures can cause the decorative finish to tarnish, fade or deteriorate. For long-term outdoor placement, we recommend a granite urn.

Can I keep a wooden urn outside?

We generally recommend keeping wooden urns indoors unless the product is specifically designed for outdoor use. Prolonged exposure to moisture and changing weather can damage the wood and its finish.

Are granite urns suitable for a garden memorial?

Yes. Granite is highly durable and generally well suited to outdoor environments. It is an excellent option for a garden memorial. As with any natural stone, physical damage and environmental conditions can still affect it over time. View our granite urns.

5. Cardboard Scattering Ashes Tubes
What is a cardboard scattering ashes tube used for?

Our cardboard scatter tubes are specifically designed for scattering cremated ashes. They provide a practical and dignified way to transport and scatter ashes on land or in water. They can also be used to store ashes safely before scattering. Browse our scatter tube collection.

How do I use a scatter tube to scatter ashes?

Our scatter tubes are designed specifically for scattering ashes. Full instructions are supplied with every tube, and you can also read our scatter tube instructions online. Please follow the supplied guidance to help make the scattering process as straightforward and dignified as possible.

Can I scatter ashes on land or in water?

Our scatter tubes are designed for scattering ashes on land or in water. Please follow the supplied instructions and check any local permissions or restrictions that apply to your chosen location.

Are your scatter tubes biodegradable?

Our cardboard scatter tubes are biodegradable and designed to provide a practical option for scattering ashes. Please check the individual product description for details of the materials and intended use of your chosen tube. Browse our biodegradable scatter tubes.

Can a scatter tube be buried?

Our biodegradable scatter tubes may be suitable for certain burial arrangements, but acceptance depends on the rules of the cemetery or burial ground. Please confirm the requirements before proceeding.

Can I travel with a cardboard scattering ashes tube?

Our cardboard scatter tubes are lightweight and made from card or paper, which may make them a practical option for transporting ashes. Airline, airport and destination requirements vary, so please check the relevant rules before travelling.

Can I keep ashes in a scatter tube permanently?

Scatter tubes are primarily designed for transporting and scattering ashes rather than permanent display. If you wish to keep ashes for the long term, we recommend choosing an urn specifically designed for long-term storage. Browse our adult cremation urns.

6. Ordering, Delivery and Returns
How do I order a cremation urn online?

Choose your preferred product, select any available options, and add it to your basket. Follow the checkout instructions to enter your delivery details and complete payment using the payment methods offered by our website. Browse our adult cremation urn collection to get started.

How long will delivery take?

Most orders are dispatched promptly. The estimated delivery options and times are shown on our website or at checkout. Please check the current delivery information before placing your order. Personalised orders may require additional preparation time.

Do you offer free delivery?

Our website advertises free UK shipping on eligible orders. Please check the product page and checkout for the delivery options and any applicable conditions.

Can I return an urn if it is not suitable?

Please contact us before returning an item so we can explain the applicable returns procedure. Items generally need to be unused and in their original condition, subject to our returns policy and any applicable legal rights. Read our terms and conditions for further information.

What if I change my mind?

Please refer to our terms and conditions for the applicable cancellation and returns arrangements. Personalised or custom-made items may be subject to different return conditions, except where your legal rights provide otherwise.

7. Contact and Visits
Where are you based?

We are based in Nottingham, United Kingdom, and supply cremation urns to customers across the UK. You can find our details on the contact page.

Can I visit to see the urns in person?

Yes, visits can be arranged by appointment. Please contact us in advance to arrange a convenient time. Visit our contact page for our details.

Do you offer advice on choosing an urn?

Absolutely. If you need help choosing an urn, checking capacity, understanding materials or arranging engraving, please contact us. We will be happy to help you find a suitable option.

What if I cannot find the answer to my question?

If your question is not covered here, please get in touch by email at support@urnswithlove.co.uk or telephone 0115 784 6824. We are always happy to answer questions and provide further information.

Need help choosing an urn?

We understand that choosing an urn is a personal decision. If you need advice about capacity, engraving or the most suitable product for your needs, please contact us. We will be happy to assist you.

Based in Nottingham, UK. Visits are available by appointment.