Are you asking: how to choose the right coffin or casket? Choosing the perfect coffin for a funeral can seem overwhelming. We look at the options available when choosing a coffin or casket.
Things to consider when choosing a coffin
Choosing a coffin is not an easy decision. It is something you will have to do at a time which is already very emotionally charged, and because of this, you might find yourself becoming stressed and floundering with indecision due to the size of the task at hand.
For some people, this is a very straightforward process. They are very specific about what they want to be used at their own funeral service and will leave behind some helpful instructions to their loved ones all about the coffin they desire and the type of send-off that they would prefer.
However, it is more common that these decisions are left up to the people who we leave behind. If this is the case, then the first thing that needs to be thought about to the cost.
But, just as important is ensuring that the choice of coffins fits the person exactly to their tastes and their personality. Over the past decade and more, the choice of coffins for a funeral has increased rapidly.
This means that there is no reason to go down the traditional route if this is what you would prefer. There have been various advances in technology, as well as a change in people's attitude towards the environment, and this has led to coffins being available in all kinds of designs, materials, and sizes. Hopefully, this means that you can pick out a coffin that will fit your loved one perfectly.
Choosing A Coffin
A casket is rectangular shaped and has a hinged lid. They are also commonly more traditional in their appearance, and they are most commonly used during burials. Caskets can also be acquired with a split lid if this is required.
This would be for a wake or at service so the body can be viewed by friends and family. Coffins, on the other hand, have a removable lid, and the shape is tapered in at around shoulder height.
There are many coffin types that can be used for either cremations or burials. Metal caskets or ones constructed out of solid wood are generally better suited for use during burials. Whereas with cremations, more lightweight options such as eco-materials, cardboard, or ply are more suitable.
If you are struggling with your choice, then we would recommend speaking with your funeral director; they should be able to advise you on which type of coffin will be most suitable for the ceremony that you have planned.
Of course, a funeral is always a highly emotional event; there is no getting around that. It is important to think about how the day can reflect the life that your loved one lived while still considering all of their wishes for their funeral.
A wooden casket or coffin can bring a certain amount of gravitas to the event, as well as closure when going through a traditional service and burial. If you are planning to hold the funeral outside, then the alternative choice of an eco-friendly coffin may be more suited to the ceremony.
It is possible that your loved one may have left specific instructions relating to their coffin. If they have not, then you can choose a coffin yourself that reflects your loved one's values and personality.
There are so many different choices these days, especially when it comes to environmentally responsible materials. There are coffins made from bamboo, wicker, and even wool. Cardboard coffins are an excellent option; they can be very easily personalised in order to celebrate the life of your loved one fully.
It is vital that you order the right size of a coffin. This can be easily done by knowing the approximate weight and height of your loved one. Caskets and coffins are produced in a huge range of different sizes, so there is something for everyone. When necessary, custom-measured coffins can be made too.
In the UK, a body needs to be covered when in a public place by law. Most crematoriums will expect you to use a coffin, but there is also the option of using a shroud. A shroud is a large piece of fabric, commonly a wool cloth, that can be placed over the body and then decorated with either floral tributes or mementoes.
What materials can coffins be made of?
Solid wood - This is the most traditional choice when looking at coffins. They will usually come with ornate metal handles and a cushioned lining on the interior. The price can vary depending on the type of wood that has been chosen and the intricacy of the carving.
Metal - A metal coffin or a metal casket is usually quite expensive, but with this high price comes a long lifespan. Metal coffins will definitely stand the test of time better than their wooden counterpart will.
The metal used with these coffins is usually either stainless steel, copper, bronze, or standard steel. Metal coffins are sometimes criticised by some people because they do not allow for the body inside to decompose naturally.
Veneer & chipboard - These types of coffins will commonly have metal or metal-effect handles, and from the exterior, they will look like a more traditional style wooden coffin. For many, this is a very popular low-cost alternative instead of the solid wood coffin.
Cardboard - This biodegradable coffin is very lightweight and is relatively low-cost. Cardboard coffins can be printed with all kinds of personalised designs that can reflect the personality of the individual before they passed away. It can also be used to reflect all of the person's accomplishments; the options are more or less limitless. Some examples of images that can be printed on the coffin are a Union Jack, religious symbols, photos of family or pets, places of meaning, and simply just a favourite colour. The whole design can be customised.
Other biodegradable materials - These materials include banana leaves, seagrass, wicker, willow, rattan, wool, and bamboo. These coffins will often cost around the same as a veneer or chipboard coffin. They are highly suitable for woodland burials.
Are you looking for an coffin suppliers from independent funeral director in Shropshire? Our family run funeral director service provides support for you and your loved ones during the funeral arrangement and service.