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What Size Urn Do I Need? Complete Ashes Capacity Guide ?
Choosing the right urn size is one of
the most common questions families have after cremation. Selecting the correct
ashes capacity ensures your loved one’s remains are stored safely,
respectfully, and with dignity.
The Golden Rule: The 1-to-1 Formula
The Golden Rule: The 1-to-1 Formula
The standard industry rule for determining urn size is based on the weight of the person (or pet) prior to cremation:
1 Pound of Body Weight = 1 Cubic Inch of Ash
For example, if your loved one had a healthy weight of 180 pounds, you will need an urn with a capacity of at least 180 cubic inches.
Common Urn Sizes & Ashes Capacity
Adult Cremation Urns
- Capacity: 180–220 cubic inches
- Suitable for: Most adults
- Best for: Full ashes storage and home display or burial
Companion Urns
- Capacity: 360–440 cubic inches
- Suitable for: Two people
- Best for: Couples wishing to rest together
Keepsake Urns
- Capacity: 1–5 cubic inches
- Suitable for: A small portion of ashes
- Best for: Sharing ashes among family members
Child &Infant Urns
- Capacity: 20–80 cubic inches
- Suitable for: Infants and children
- Best for: Child memorials
Scattering Urns
- Capacity: Varies by design
- Suitable for: Temporary storage
- Best for: Ash scattering ceremonies
Urn Size Guide by Body Weight
|
Body Weight (lbs)
|
Minimum Urn Size (cubic inches)
|
|
100 lbs
|
100 cu in
|
|
150 lbs
|
150 cu in
|
|
180 lbs
|
180 cu in
|
|
200 lbs
|
200 cu in
|
|
220+ lbs
|
220+ cu in
|
📌Always choose a slightly larger urn if you are between sizes.
Does Urn Material Affect Capacity?
Yes. Thicker materials such as stone, marble, or ceramic may have slightly reduced interior capacity compared to metal or wood urns of the same external size. Always check the listed internal capacity.
Choosing the Right Urn Size Based on Purpose
- Home Display: Adult or keepsake urns
- Burial: Burial-ready or biodegradable urns
- Scattering: Scattering urns or tubes
- Sharing Ashes: Keepsake or mini urns
Helpful Tips When Selecting an Urn Size
✔ Choose extra capacity if unsure
✔ Confirm capacity listed in cubic inches
✔ Consider future sharing or keepsakes
✔ Ask about liner bags or compartments
✔ Confirm capacity listed in cubic inches
✔ Consider future sharing or keepsakes
✔ Ask about liner bags or compartments
At CremationUrnsAshes.com,
every urn includes clearly listed ashes capacity to help families choose with
confidence and peace of mind.
More FAQ Questions
- How to Choose the Right Cremation Urn for Ashes?
- What Is a Keepsake Urn? Meaning, Uses Benefits Explained
- How to Care for and Clean a Brass Cremation Urn ?
- Can You Keep a Cremation Urn at Home? Things to Know
- Different Types of Cremation Urns Explained
- Brass vs Ceramic vs Aluminium vs Wooden Cremation Urns – Which Is Better?
- Choosing an Urn for Mother’s Ashes – A Loving Guide
- Choosing an Urn for Father’s or Grandparent’s Ashes – A Respectful Guide
- Where Should You Place a Cremation Urn at Home?
- Why Are Brass Cremation Urns Considered a Timeless Choice?
- How to Safely Transport a Cremation Urn?
- Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Cremation Urn
- Luxury vs Affordable Cremation Urns — Which Option Is Right for You?
- Why Buying Cremation Urns Online Is Safe Reliable
- How Do I Transfer the Ashes to the Urn?
- Cremation Urn Design, Security, Ordering, Delivery, Shipping, Returns Payments, Company Contact Information
