Choosing the Right Urn Size: A Complete Guide for Families
Selecting an urn for a loved one is a deeply personal decision, and one of the most common questions people have is: What size urn do I need? With a variety of urn sizes available—ranging from keepsake urns to large companion urns—it’s important to understand how to choose the right fit based on cremation remains.
In this guide, we’ll explain urn sizing, the standard urn capacity guidelines, and how to select the perfect urn for your needs.
How Are Urn Sizes Measured?
Urn sizes are typically measured in cubic inches, which refers to the volume of ashes the urn can hold. A general rule of thumb is:
1 pound of body weight = 1 cubic inch of ashes
For example, if a loved one weighed 175 pounds, their ashes will require an urn with a capacity of at least 175 cubic inches.
Urn Size Categories and Their Uses
Urns come in various sizes to accommodate different needs. Below is a breakdown of common urn types and their capacities:
1. Standard Adult Urn (180-220 Cubic Inches)
✔ Suitable for holding the ashes of an adult
✔ The most commonly used size for individual remains
✔ Available in a variety of materials, including wood, metal, ceramic, and cloisonné
2. Companion Urn (350-400+ Cubic Inches)
✔ Designed to hold the ashes of two individuals
✔ Often chosen by spouses or close family members who wish to remain together
✔ Available in both single-chamber and double-chamber designs
3. Keepsake Urns (10-50 Cubic Inches)
✔ Small urns meant to hold a portion of ashes
✔ Ideal for families who wish to share remains among relatives
✔ Commonly used for memorial jewelry, scattering ceremonies, or personal keepsakes
4. Pet Urns (10-150 Cubic Inches)
✔ Designed for pet ashes, with sizing depending on pet weight
✔ Small pet urns (up to 30 cubic inches) for cats and small dogs
✔ Large pet urns (100+ cubic inches) for bigger dog breeds
5. Scattering Tubes (50-200 Cubic Inches)
✔ Made for those who plan to scatter ashes in a meaningful location
✔ Typically biodegradable and eco-friendly
✔ Can be used for full remains or a portion of ashes
6. Extra-Large or Oversized Urns (220+ Cubic Inches)
✔ Designed for individuals with a larger body weight
✔ Ensures that all ashes fit comfortably without the need for a second urn
✔ Available in styles similar to standard adult urns
How to Choose the Right Urn Size for Your Needs
When selecting an urn, consider these key factors:
✔ Body Weight – Use the 1:1 ratio rule (1 lb = 1 cubic inch) to estimate the required urn size.
✔ Purpose – Will the urn be used for permanent storage, scattering, or sharing?
✔ Material – Wood urns often require slightly larger dimensions due to thickness, while metal and ceramic urns are more compact.
✔ Placement – If the urn will be displayed at home, consider its aesthetics and dimensions. If it will be interred, check cemetery regulations for urn size requirements.
Common Questions About Urn Sizing
What happens if I choose an urn that’s too small?
If the urn is too small, the ashes may not fit entirely. In this case, families may choose to:
- Use multiple urns (for sharing ashes among family members)
- Keep a portion of ashes in a keepsake urn or memorial jewelry
- Store extra ashes in a secondary container
Can I use a larger urn than needed?
Yes! If you find an urn design you love that’s slightly larger than required, it will still work. Extra space does not impact the preservation of ashes.
Do all cremation providers return the same amount of ashes?
While most cremation services follow similar processes, the amount of remains can vary slightly based on the individual’s body structure and the cremation process used. It’s always a good idea to confirm the volume of remains with your funeral provider before selecting an urn.
Find the Perfect Urn at Remember Urns
Choosing the right urn is an important part of memorializing a loved one. At Remember Urns, we offer a wide selection of urns in various sizes, materials, and designs to ensure you find the perfect tribute.
Browse our urn collection today and let us help you honor your loved one with a lasting memorial.
Choosing the Right Urn Size: A Complete Guide for Families