Which cremation urns for ashes are suitable for outdoors and which aren't?
When a loved one passes away and is cremated, various options are available for the cremation ashes. You can scatter the ashes in a meaningful location, place them in a columbarium, use a biodegradable urn, or choose a special urn for display in a beautiful spot. Urns come in all shapes, sizes, and materials, providing a fitting destination for the ashes of your departed loved one.
While you have the freedom to choose the type of urn and its placement, there are important considerations, especially if you intend to place the urn outdoors. Material plays a crucial role in outdoor urns. Below, we explain which types of urns are suitable for outdoor placement and which are better kept indoors.
Outdoor-Appropriate Cremation Urns for Ashes
Urns made of granite, bronze, and stainless steel are the most suitable for outdoor placement. These materials resist damage from sun, rain, cold, and heat. Despite their robust materials, these urns are highly decorative and often customizable through methods such as engraving. Note that bronze may undergo discolouration over time.
A significant number of ceramic urns are also strong enough to withstand the elements. Fired at temperatures exceeding 1200 degrees Celsius, these urns can endure weather conditions without cracking or breaking during frost periods. Check the product features to confirm whether an urn is suitable for outdoor use.
Things to consider for outdoor urns
It's advisable to attach self-adhesive plastic bumpers to the bottom of each outdoor urn to allow ventilation. These bumpers can be found in any hardware store. Additionally, ensure that no water accumulates in cavities.
It is advisable to place a polyester or plastic ash bag inside the urn, not only for outdoor urns but practically for all urns. In the unlikely event, for example, that a fragile ceramic urn breaks, you protect the ashes in this way. Additionally, it keeps the ashes separate from the inside of the urn. Due to the porous nature of the material, lime in the cremation ashes can seep outside, leading to discolouration or breakage. Having an ash bag also makes it easier to remove the ashes if they ever need to be relocated. If cremation ashes have been outdoors for an extended period, there is a high chance that the ashes solidify due to the high calcium content (binder).
Ensure to keep the urn clean. Usually, a simple cleaning with water and mild soap is sufficient. You can find more information on maintaining stainless steel urns by clicking on the link.
Outdoor urns are not only robust but also elegant
Whether a classic granite urn, a bronze urn with incorporated ash, or a ceramic pot, you can integrate these urns seamlessly into your garden. Even subtle, handcrafted clay memorial stones or biodegradable urns offer unique options. Consider the preferences of your departed loved one, did they enjoy being outdoors? Placing their urn in an outdoor setting could be a meaningful choice. If you don't want a decorative urn but still wish for your loved one to become part of nature, then a biodegradable urn might be a good option.
Urns for Indoor Placement Only
While all urns are generally suitable for indoor placement, outdoor suitability varies. For example, an ash sculpture with silver tin is not suitable for outdoor exposure. Materials like brass, plastic, fiberglass, metal, and wood are intended for indoor use only. Check our website for urns explicitly designed for outdoor use, and the product descriptions usually indicate suitability. If you have specific questions, feel free to contact us through phone, email, or chat during business hours.
Biodegradable Urns
For those who want the cremated remains to become part of nature, biodegradable urns are an excellent option. Please note that these urns are NOT suitable to put outside for decoration, as they are made in such a way that they decompose. They blend into nature by dissolving or growing into a tree. Because they are made of natural materials such as cellulose, wood or a mix of sand, sea salt and plant materials, they dissolve in water or soil. So you can feel free to lower these urns into the sea, other bodies of water or bury them without harming the environment. Some urns contain seeds from a tree, plant or flowers, creating a lasting (or temporary) natural reminder at the spot where you bury the urn.
Let us help you to create a meaningful memorial
We hope this information provides clarity on placing urns outdoors. Commemorating a loved one is highly personal, and the urn's location often reflects the individual or your relationship with them. It's crucial to consider the urn's material, ensuring it not only has the right appearance but also the desired durability.
If you have questions about urn options or specific requests, don't hesitate to reach out to our staff. Feel free to call us during business hours, send an email, or chat with us.
