Choosing an urn can feel overwhelming, especially during an emotional time. One of the most common questions families have is: What size urn do I need?
This simple guide will help you choose the right urn size with confidence, so you can focus on honoring your loved one in a meaningful way.
The Basic Rule for Urn Sizing
A simple guideline used by most funeral professionals:
👉 You need 1 cubic inch of urn space for every 1 pound of body weight.
For example:
| Body Weight | Urn Size Needed |
|---|---|
| 50 lbs | 50 cubic inches |
| 120 lbs | 120 cubic inches |
| 180 lbs | 180 cubic inches |
| 220 lbs | 220+ cubic inches |
When in doubt, it’s always best to choose an urn slightly larger than needed.
Standard Adult Urns
Most adult urns hold 180–220 cubic inches, which is suitable for the majority of adults.
These urns are ideal if:
- One person will keep the ashes
- You want a permanent memorial
- The urn will be displayed at home or placed in a niche
👉 Browse our standard adult urn collection to find traditional, modern, and artistic designs.
Keepsake Urns (For Sharing Ashes)
Some families choose to share ashes among loved ones. Keepsake urns are small urns designed to hold a symbolic portion of ashes.
They’re a beautiful option if:
- Multiple family members want a personal memorial
- You want a small remembrance piece
- You plan to scatter some ashes but keep a portion
👉 Explore our keepsake urns for sharing and remembrance.
Companion Urns for Couples
Companion urns are designed to hold the ashes of two people together, usually partners or spouses.
They typically hold:
- 350–400 cubic inches total capacity
👉 View our companion urns for lasting togetherness.
Urns for Scattering or Burial
If you plan to scatter ashes or choose a natural burial, special urns are available for these purposes.
Options include:
- Biodegradable urns
- Temporary urns for transport
- Water-safe scattering urns
👉 See our biodegradable and scattering urn options.
Where Will the Urn Be Placed?
Before choosing, consider the final resting place:
At home
You may want a decorative or artistic design that suits your space.
Columbarium niche
Check size restrictions before purchasing.
Burial
Choose an urn approved for ground burial or biodegradable materials.
Quick Checklist Before Buying
✔ Confirm the person’s weight
✔ Decide if ashes will be shared
✔ Know the final resting place
✔ When unsure, choose a larger size
Choosing with Confidence
Selecting an urn is a deeply personal decision. The right size ensures your loved one is honored respectfully, while the design reflects their life and memory.
If you’re unsure which option is best, take your time — and choose what feels most meaningful to you and your family.
👉 Browse our full urn collection by size and style to find the perfect memorial.