Losing a loved one is one of the hardest experiences in life.

Whether the loss is sudden or expected, it often leaves you feeling unsure of what to do next.

After a loved one passes, you may choose to hold a funeral or, depending on their wishes, opt for cremation. Contrary to popular belief, cremation doesn’t mean you can't have a traditional funeral. You can still hold a full service, with the only difference being that your loved one will be cremated afterward instead of buried.

If you're considering cremation, you may want to select a cremation casket to hold your loved one’s body during the service. This guide will help you understand cremation caskets and how to choose the right one.

How Is a Cremation Casket Different from a Burial Casket?

Unlike traditional caskets, which are primarily intended for burial and often contain materials that would not safely incinerate, cremation caskets are specifically designed to undergo the cremation process alongside your loved one’s remains.

These caskets are typically crafted from fully combustible materials, ensuring they burn safely and efficiently during cremation, leaving no trace of non-combustible parts such as metal hardware or synthetic components.

As a result, when the cremation is complete, the ashes can be gathered into an urn or jar seamlessly, without the need to sift through or remove any residual non-combustible materials, offering a more natural and simplified process for preserving the remains.

Reasons to Choose a Cremation Casket

A cremation casket offers a dignified way to present your loved one during the funeral service, allowing family and friends to pay their respects. Once the service is over, the casket and remains are cremated together. Since the casket is made from fully combustible materials, it ensures a complete and respectful cremation process.

Different Options for Cremation Caskets

Here are some types of cremation caskets to consider:

These resemble typical burial caskets but are made entirely of wood or other combustible materials. They often feature decorations for viewings or other services before cremation. Many providers also offer customization options to personalise the casket.

These are simpler than traditional caskets and are usually made from more affordable materials like plywood or cardboard. Cremation containers are not intended for viewings and are used solely to transport the body for cremation.

Rental caskets are used for the funeral service and viewing. Afterward, the body is removed for cremation, and the casket is returned to the funeral home. These caskets are not customizable, but you can often find designs that reflect your loved one’s personality.

If you’re seeking an eco-friendly option, consider a biodegradable casket made from materials like seagrass or wicker. These can be cremated along with the body or used for the service before cremation. Since they naturally decompose, they provide an environmentally responsible choice.

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Cremation Casket

Here are some factors to keep in mind when selecting a cremation casket:

Cremation caskets are generally more affordable than traditional burial caskets, with prices starting as low as $899. Be sure to set a budget that leaves room for other aspects of the funeral.

If you want a personalised service, consider a cremation casket that aligns with your design preferences. While cremation caskets don’t have metal finishes, a rental casket could offer more decorative options at a potentially lower cost.

If you're planning a full funeral service before cremation, you may want a traditional-style cremation casket or a rental casket. If no viewing is planned, a simple cremation container may be sufficient.

If your loved one had a specific type of casket in mind, it’s important to honour that choice. If they left a will, check to see if they mentioned a preferred casket type.