1. How to choose the right size of urn?
A standard adult urn, typically holding 180–220 cubic inches, is designed to fit the full ashes of an average adult and is usually a reliable, thoughtful option.
If someone weighed 160 pounds before cremation, you would need an urn with at least 160 cubic inches of space.
Standard adult urn 180-220 cu. in.
River Stones | Large size
Child or infant urn 10-80 cu. in.
Pure Love & River Stones | XSmall – Medium
Keepsake urn 1-50 cu. in.
River Stones | Keepsake
Pet urn 20-100 cu. in.
River Stones & Pure Love | XSmall – Medium
Sharing urn 40-100 cu. in.
River Stones | Keepsake - Medium
Urn vault 350-400 cu. in.
Coming soon
If you are unsure, you can also check with the crematory for the exact ash volume, if available.
2. How to choose an urn if I only know the weight of the ashes?
For 1 pound of ashes you need about 30–35 cubic inches of space.
After cremation, the weight of ashes varies based on height, bone density, and the cremation process, not body mass, so even similarly sized people may have different ash weights. An adult typically produces between 3 to 7 pounds of ashes, so if you only know the weight of the ashes, here’s a simple guide:
If you are unsure, you can also check with the crematory for the exact ash volume, if available.
3. How to store the ashes inside the urn?
Using a bag
Funeral homes always recommend keeping the ashes inside a bag, which should be placed within the urn. This helps keep everything sealed, secure and protected over time.
Placing without a bag
We recommend using a little wood glue to seal the lid. This prevents ashes from blocking the lid's threads, which could make it hard to open later. This is especially useful if you don't plan to reopen the urn.
Transfering
Your loved one’s ashes are usually returned in a bag or container. If they come in a bag, please note that while flexible, the sealed top can be bulky. For the River Stone urn, transferring to a new bag is usually needed to ensure a proper fit.
Before receiving the ashes, you can always ask the funeral home whether they can place the ashes directly into your selected urn.
4. How to transfer the ashes safely?
Recommended tools
The urn- A funnel
- A spoon or a small scoop
- A plastic or biodegradable bag
- Gloves
1. Prepare the space
Lay down a clean surface and have the urn, the included funnel, and the ash bag (if using) nearby.
2. Open the urn
Use the wooden key to unscrew the lid gently. Avoid over-tightening when closing to prevent the thread from locking.
3. Place the ash bag (optional)
You may choose to place the ashes directly or use the included bag for easier transfer and future handling.
4. Begin the transfer
Using the funnel, slowly pour the ashes into the urn or the bag. We recommend doing this in a quiet, private moment.
5. Close the urn
Screw the lid gently back into place. Thanks to the built-in cork seal, the urn can stay securely closed even without glue. If you prefer a permanent closure, you may seal it using a natural wood glue around the thread.
Helpful Tips
You can ask for help
You don’t have to do it alone: many funeral homes will transfer the ashes for you if you’re unsure or emotional.
Keep ID Tag with ashes
Keep any identification tag from the crematorium with the ashes, especially if transferring from one container to another.
Scattering urn use may vary
For scattering urns, the process might vary slightly depending on design.
Give enough space
If you're unsure, it's perfectly fine to choose an urn with a bit of extra space, ashes are usually placed in a sealed plastic bag, so it's important that the interior allows for a comfortable fit.
Right for sharing
If you’re planning to share ashes with family or friends, consider small or medium sharing urns, or keepsakes, depending on how much each person will keep.
Check the unit of measurement
Some urns list capacity in liters: 1 liter = about 61 cubic inches