Direct Cremation: the Pros and Cons

You’ve probably got questions when it comes to exploring cremation options. From choosing cremation urns for ashes to considering more personalized keepsakes for ashes, there’s so much to consider. But the first place to start is the type of cremation. This article provides important information that will help you decide if direct cremation is a good idea for your family.

What is Direct Cremation?

Direct cremation is a type of cremation that covers the basics, without any unnecessary extras. As the name suggests, direct cremation involves the simple, straightforward process of cremating the body and returning the ashes to the family. Basic cremation does not include a memorial service, visitation time, flowers, ceramic urns, burial plots, or other traditional embellishments.

Benefits of Direct Cremation

The straightforward nature of direct cremation can provide some often overlooked benefits. First off, direct cremation can be a much more affordable option than a traditional funeral service. It’s also a faster process, since there’s no need to make additional arrangements.

Luxury Urns for Ashes by Pulvis Art Urns. Set of Wings.

"Wings" - set of ceramic urns for ashes

Many people don’t realize that direct cremation typically takes place outside of peak crematorium hours, which allows for it to be carried out sooner. For some families, the faster the cremation is finalized, the sooner they can find closure.

A final benefit of direct cremation is that it takes care of the logistics, giving the family more time to focus on emotional healing or planning memorial services at a later date when the family is better prepared.

Drawbacks of Direct Cremation

One significant drawback of direct cremation is that you typically can’t choose the time or location of the cremation process, as these details are left up to the crematorium. While most crematoriums will notify you of when the cremation will occur and may even allow a few close relatives to be present, many crematoriums do not allow additional guests during the process.

Crematorium. Article by Pulvis Art Urns on Direct Cremation

Another drawback of direct cremation is that no prior visitation is organized, meaning there’s no opportunity for friends and families to see their loved one in person before saying goodbye.

Is Direct Cremation Right for My Family?

This type of cremation is well-suited for a number of situations. Private, reserved individuals who don’t like the idea of a large, showy display may request direct cremation in their will, effectively bypassing the pomp and circumstance that accompanies a traditional funeral service.

Set of cremation urns for ashes "Light" by Pulvis Art Urns

In addition, families who are too devastated by their loss may not have the focus or desire to make decisions concerning elaborate funeral arrangements. Direct cremation cuts out the need of planning those extra details.

On the other end of the spectrum, a family may want to plan a large, celebratory memorial service but they don’t have the time or financial means to do so immediately. In this scenario, direct cremation takes care of the obvious logistics so that the family can take all the time they need to prepare an appropriate memorial. This may entail saving money, finding a venue, preparing a service, selecting from a variety of ceramic urns or handcrafted urns, choosing flowers, and giving loved ones at a distance the time they need to travel for the service.

As you can see, direct cremation is an option that suits a variety of situations. By simplifying cremation and taking the rush out of preparing a service, direct cremation can reduce some of the stress felt during this difficult time.

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