How to Place Ashes in an Urn or Memorial Keepsake

Handling cremated remains is one of the most personal and emotional steps in the memorial process. Whether you’re placing ashes into a traditional urn, a keepsake, or a piece of jewelry, it can feel both meaningful and overwhelming. In moments like these, it’s natural to have questions and to want to get things just right. So to help make this process a little easier and less overwhelming, we created this guide on how to place ashes in an urn. Here at the Remembrance Store™, we offer a wide range of cremation urns, keepsakes, and jewelry, but we also want to provide clarity on what to expect, how to handle ashes with care, and ultimately transfer the ashes in a safe and respectful way.

But first, let’s cover a few general questions many people have at the beginning of this process.

Understanding Cremated Remains: What Are "Ashes"?

When a person is cremated, the body is reduced to bone fragments by intense heat. What is commonly referred to as "ashes" are actually these bone fragments, which are then processed into a fine, sand-like consistency. They are not a dusty powder, but rather a granular substance.

These cremated remains are durable and will last indefinitely when properly stored in a sealed container, such as a cremation urn. While they might feel fragile to handle, the material itself is very stable.

Are Ashes Loose in an Urn?

No. When you receive cremated remains from a funeral home or crematorium, they are typically sealed in a durable plastic bag within a temporary container. This bag can be placed directly into your chosen urn, making transfer cleaner, simpler, and more respectful. For most families, there’s no need to open the bag or pour the ashes unless the urn has a narrow opening.

Practical Preparation: Gathering Your Supplies

Having the right tools ready will make the process smoother and more respectful. Set up a well-lit, clean, and stable workspace. A table covered with a soft cloth or towel is ideal to prevent scratching urns or containers and to make cleanup easier.

Here's a list of supplies you might need:

The temporary container: This is the box or vessel holding your loved one's cremated remains, typically in a sealed plastic bag.
Your chosen permanent cremation urn or container: Ensure it is clean and ready.
Disposable gloves: While the remains are sterile, gloves provide a barrier and can make the process feel more dignified for some.
A large, soft cloth or towel: To cover your workspace and catch any stray particles. For urns that need to be turned upside down, like our Memento® Boxes, this will also ensure the top won’t get scratched or damaged during the process.
A funnel (optional, but highly recommended): Especially useful if the opening of your permanent urn or keepsake is narrow. Funnels specifically designed for urns or jewelry can be found, or a kitchen funnel can work if cleaned thoroughly.
A small scoop or spoon (optional): If you are transferring very small amounts, such as for cremation jewelry.
Damp cloth or paper towels: For immediate cleanup of any residue.
Adhesive or sealant (for some urns/jewelry): If your urn's lid or the jewelry piece requires sealing, have the appropriate adhesive ready (e.g., silicone sealant for urns, super glue for jewelry). Check the urn's instructions.

Step-by-Step: Transferring Ashes into a Traditional Urn

A traditional cremation urn holds the full amount of cremated remains, typically around 200 cubic inches. Available from the Remembrance Store™ in materials like wood, metal, ceramic, and marble, many urns can be engraved to create a lasting and personal tribute.

Here are the general steps for transferring ashes into a traditional urn:

Step 1: Choose the Right Urn

Before you begin the transfer, ensure you have chosen a cremation urn that is suitable in terms of size and style. Standard full size urns are designed to hold the cremated remains of one adult person, which typically require about 200 cubic inches of capacity. Consider the material, design, and how it will fit into the space where it will be displayed or interred.

Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace and Urn

Lay a soft cloth on a clean, flat surface in a quiet space. Place the temporary container and the permanent urn nearby, and remove the lid from the urn.

Step 3: Carefully Transfer the Remains

Most funeral homes will provide the cremated remains in a sturdy plastic bag inside a temporary container. The simplest and most recommended method is to leave the remains in this bag. However, urns from the Remembrance Store™ also come with an empty plastic bag that can be placed inside the urn first for transferring.

Preferred method: Place the sealed bag directly into the urn. This keeps the remains secure and minimizes residue.
If needed: If the bag is too large or the opening is narrow, carefully snip a corner of the bag and use a funnel to pour the remains into the empty bag that was provided with your urn. Gloves and a steady hand are helpful.
Once inside, gently adjust the bag so the lid fits properly.

Step 4: Secure the Urn

Once the cremated remains are inside, carefully place the lid back onto the urn.

For added protection, especially if the urn will be buried, moved, or placed in a niche, apply silicone or epoxy sealant around the lid.
Sealing isn’t always required for display at home, but it helps protect the contents from dust, moisture, or spills.

Step 5: Cleaning and Reflection

After the urn is sealed, carefully wipe down the outside of the urn with a soft cloth to remove any fingerprints or dust. Take a moment to reflect on the completion of this step in honoring your loved one.

Considering Other Options for Cremated Remains

Beyond traditional urns, there are several other meaningful ways to memorialize cremated remains, each suited to different preferences and plans.

Scattering Urns

Scattering urns are specially designed containers that make the process of scattering cremated remains easier and more dignified. They often feature a simple opening mechanism that allows for a controlled release of the ashes. These urns are typically made from lightweight, often biodegradable materials like paper, cardboard, or bamboo.

Is there a proper way to spread ashes? When scattering, always be mindful of local regulations and private property rights. Choose a location that was meaningful to your loved one. Scattering methods can vary from pouring directly from the urn to using a casting motion. Consider the wind direction to ensure the ashes disperse as intended.
How to open an urn to spread ashes? Scattering urns usually have a top or bottom opening that is easily removed or unsealed, often with a simple twist, tab, or tear-away strip. Follow the specific instructions provided with your scattering urn.

Biodegradable Urns

Biodegradable urns are designed to break down naturally over time, allowing the cremated remains to return to the earth or water. They are typically made from materials like biodegradable paper, plant fibers, or bamboo. These urns are an excellent choice for eco-conscious individuals or for those who wish for a natural burial or water interment.

Cremation Jewelry and Other Memorial Keepsakes

Cremation jewelry, also known as urn necklaces or memorial pendants, offers a discreet and deeply personal way to keep a small portion of your loved one's cremated remains close to your heart. These beautiful pieces of jewelry often feature a small chamber designed to hold a tiny amount of ashes.

Why Choose Cremation Jewelry?

Choosing cremation jewelry allows you to carry a tangible piece of your loved one with you every day. It serves as a constant, intimate reminder of their presence and the love you share. It can be a particularly comforting option for those who find solace in having their loved one physically near.

How to Transfer Ashes into a Cremation Necklace or Locket

Filling cremation jewelry is a delicate task, but it can be done carefully at home. Most cremation jewelry pieces come with a small screw or stopper that opens a tiny chamber.

Step 1: Gather Supplies You’ll need:

Your cremation jewelry piece
A mini funnel (essential for the small opening)
A small scoop or V-folded paper
A toothpick or similar tool
Jeweler’s adhesive or super glue
A soft cloth

Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace Lay out your cloth on a clean, stable surface. Keep the ashes nearby in their sealed container.

Step 3: Open the Jewelry Carefully unscrew or open the compartment. Place the stopper or screw somewhere safe so it doesn’t get lost.

Step 4: Transfer the Ashes

Insert the funnel into the opening.
Use your scoop or folded paper to add a very small amount—typically less than ¼ teaspoon.
Tap gently and use a toothpick to guide the ashes through if needed. Avoid overfilling.

Step 5: Seal the Jewelry Remove the funnel and apply a small drop of adhesive to the screw threads or stopper. Securely close and wipe away any excess glue. Let it fully cure before wearing. Step 6: Clean and Wear Gently wipe the jewelry with a soft cloth.

Is it safe to wear? Yes—once sealed, ashes remain secure indefinitely.
Can I shower with it? It’s best to remove it during showers or swimming to protect the seal and finish.

Honoring Their Memory

The process of transferring your loved one’s ashes into an urn or a cherished keepsake is a final, tender act of care — a moment to reflect on the love you shared and the lasting impact of their life. Whether you choose a traditional urn for display, a biodegradable urn for natural burial, or a piece of cremation jewelry to keep them close, your choice is a deeply personal one. At the Remembrance Store™, we’re honored to offer thoughtfully designed memorial products to support you in this meaningful step.

Remember, there is no single “right” way to honor a loved one, only what feels right for you. Trust your instincts and choose what brings you comfort and peace as you continue your journey of remembrance.