Welcome to Casket Mart’s guide to selecting a cremation urn. As a family-owned business dedicated to providing affordable and compassionate funeral solutions, we understand that choosing an urn is a deeply personal decision. This guide covers sizing, materials, types, and important considerations for Ontario families — whether you’re planning ahead or navigating a recent loss.
Understanding Cremation Urns
Cremation urns serve as a dignified vessel for cremated remains. They can be used for permanent display at home, burial in a cemetery, scattering in a meaningful location, or as keepsake memorials shared among family members. Urns come in a wide range of styles — from simple and eco-friendly to ornate and personalized — allowing you to honour your loved one’s memory in a way that reflects their life.
How to Choose the Right Size
The general rule is that each pound of body weight produces approximately one cubic inch of ash. For example, if the person weighed 180 pounds, you’ll need an urn with at least 180 cubic inches of capacity. Always check with your crematorium for the exact volume, and consider sizing up slightly if you’re unsure.
- Adult urns — Typically 180–220 cubic inches, suitable for most adults
- Keepsake urns — 3–25 cubic inches, for dividing ashes among family members
- Companion urns — 300+ cubic inches, designed for two people
- Infant and child urns — 20–100 cubic inches, depending on age and weight
Materials: Pros, Cons and Best Uses
Urns are crafted from a variety of materials, each with different characteristics in terms of durability, appearance, and environmental impact.
| Material | Pros | Cons | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metal (brass, bronze, stainless steel) | Highly durable, elegant, can be engraved | Heavier, may tarnish over time if unsealed | Indoor display or burial; timeless appeal |
| Wood (oak, walnut, cherry) | Warm, natural look; biodegradable options available; customizable | Susceptible to moisture if untreated | Home display or eco-conscious families |
| Mineral / stone (marble, granite, ceramic) | Sturdy, weather-resistant, artistic designs | Fragile if dropped; heavier to transport | Burial or outdoor memorials |
| Biodegradable (paper, salt, bamboo) | Affordable, fully decomposes in soil or water | Not suitable for long-term display | Scattering ceremonies or green burials |
Our Urn Collections
Casket Mart carries over 40 cremation urns across five collections, each with its own character and aesthetic.
- Sirius — Classic metal urns with clean, timeless lines
- Vega — Contemporary designs with a refined, modern finish
- Canopus — Artisan-crafted urns with decorative detailing
- Capella — Wood urns with warm, natural grain
- Solis — Keepsake and tealight urns for sharing among family
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need an urn? No, but an urn provides a respectful and personalized option for your loved one’s remains.
- Can urns be personalized? Yes — many can be engraved or customized. Contact us for available options.
- What if I want to divide the ashes? Keepsake urns are designed exactly for this purpose, allowing portions to be shared among family members.
- Are there eco-friendly options? Yes. Our biodegradable selections are suitable for scattering ceremonies and green burials.
- Can I purchase an urn separately from the funeral home? Yes. Under Ontario’s FBCSA, you have the right to purchase an urn from any supplier. The funeral home cannot charge a handling fee for accepting it.
Ready to choose?
Browse our full selection of cremation urns, or contact our team for a personalized recommendation. We’re here seven days a week.