Adult Urns - Most common size
Adult Urns, sometimes referred to as Standard Urns or Large Urns, are the most common urn size. Anyone weighing less than 220lbs or shorter than 6ft before cremation will fit in a standard adult urn.
Extra Large Urns - Tall individuals or aquamation
Extra Large is the right urn size for an adult who was 6 feet tall or taller or had a larger frame. An Extra Large Urn also is the correct size for a person who chose aquamation as the cremation method. (Aquamation creates 20-30% more cremated remains than traditional cremation).
Small and Medium Urns - Youth/children or a portion of ashes
Small and Medium Urns are best when dividing one person’s ashes among two or more people as well as for young children. Note: Small and Medium urns are not recommended as a single vessel for adult remains—regardless of height or weight before cremation.
Keepsake Urns - Very small amount of ashes in remembrance
Keepsake urns, or mini urns, are best for holding a very small amount of ashes in remembrance (often just a few tablespoons). Keepsake urns are a popular option when dividing ashes amongst children, grandchildren, or friends.
Urns for Two - Remembering a couple
Urns for Two, often referred to as Companion Urns, Double Urns or Double Internment, are used when combining two people’s ashes into a single urn. Some styles feature a single shared compartment while others have two separate spaces.
Frequently asked questions about urn sizing:
- What is the standard size of an urn?
The typical urn size is an adult size, which has the capacity to hold 180–220 cubic inches. - What size should an urn be?
The size of urn you choose should be determined by two factors: 1. The size of the individual (usually an adult size) and 2. Their final resting place (burial, on display at home, in a columbarium, or scattered).
For help on deciding a final resting place, visit: Guide to Choosing an Urn >
- What is the average volume of a cremated body?
The average volume of ashes for an adult is about 200 cubic inches, or roughly 3 – 3.5 liters. - How big is an urn for ashes?
Urns come in a wide variety of styles and dimensions. For classically-shaped cylinder urns, adult sizes are approximately 9–10 in. tall and 6–7 in. wide. For box-shaped urns, adult sizes are approximately 9–11 in. long, 7–8 in. wide, and 7–10 in. high.
Still have questions?
Please give us a call at (888) 872-0228. Our caring, experienced support team is standing by to help you select the perfect memorial for your needs.