How Does Cremation Work? The Truth About Cremation & Choosing the Right Urn

Cremation has become a widely accepted and often preferred method of final disposition in today’s world. Whether due to religious, personal, or environmental reasons, more families are opting for cremation over traditional burial. But how does cremation really work? What are the facts—and the myths—you should know? And once cremation is complete, how do you honor your loved one with the right cremation urn?

At LovingUrns, we help families navigate this deeply personal journey with compassion, understanding, and a wide selection of meaningful cremation urns—from urns for Mom and urns for Dad, to themed urns like butterfly urns, eagle urns, elephant urns, and even car urns, wolf urns, and owl urns.

Let’s take a deeper look at what really happens during cremation and how to choose the right urn to keep your loved one’s memory alive.

The Cremation Process: What Really Happens

So, how does cremation work?

The cremation process involves reducing the body to bone fragments through intense heat, usually between 1400°F to 1800°F. The body is placed in a cremation chamber (also known as a retort), where it is exposed to these high temperatures for a duration that varies based on several factors.

After the cremation, any remaining bone fragments are carefully collected and processed into a fine ash-like consistency. These remains—commonly referred to as “ashes”—are then placed in a temporary container or a permanent cremation urn selected by the family.

How Long Does Cremation Take?

The cremation itself typically takes 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the body’s size, weight, and the equipment used. However, the total timeline from the moment a loved one passes to the time the ashes are returned can range from a few days to a couple of weeks. This includes the mandatory paperwork, waiting periods, and family decisions regarding services and urn selection.

The Truth About Cremation: Secrets They Don’t Want You to Know

There are some widespread myths and misunderstandings about cremation that create unnecessary fear and confusion. Let’s clear those up.

1. You Receive Only Your Loved One’s Ashes

A common concern is whether the ashes returned to you are really from your loved one. Reputable crematoriums follow strict procedures, including ID tags and documentation, to ensure that each individual is properly tracked from start to finish. At LovingUrns, we recommend working with licensed professionals to ensure integrity in the cremation process.

2. Cremation Is Not "Less Personal"

Some people believe cremation feels impersonal compared to burial. But many families find cremation to be a profoundly meaningful choice. The freedom to choose a personalized cremation urn, create memorial spaces at home, and even divide ashes among family members can enhance the sense of closeness and remembrance.

3. You Can Still Have a Funeral or Memorial Service

Cremation doesn’t eliminate the option of a funeral. Many families choose to hold services before or after the cremation, incorporating religious traditions, personal stories, or themed displays using urns for mom or urns for dad that reflect the individual’s life.

Choosing the Right Cremation Urn

After cremation, selecting the right urn becomes the next important step. At LovingUrns, we believe every life deserves a vessel that reflects its spirit. That’s why we offer a variety of thoughtfully designed urns, from symbolic themes to classic tributes.

Urns for Mom

A mother’s love is eternal. Our urns for mom collection includes floral designs, soft pastels, and butterfly urns—symbolizing transformation and beauty. These urns are perfect for daughters and sons looking to honor a nurturing, graceful presence.

Urns for Dad

For a father’s strength and legacy, consider our urns for dad featuring bold finishes and themes like eagle urns, representing courage and freedom. We also offer car urns for dads who were passionate about automobiles, blending personality with dignity.

Butterfly Urns

Butterfly urns represent change, hope, and renewal. They're ideal for honoring someone who brought beauty into your life. These urns come in hand-painted designs, engravings, and even custom finishes.

Eagle Urns

Strong, majestic, and free-spirited, eagle urns are a popular choice for veterans, adventurers, or those with a passion for the wild. They symbolize vision, strength, and honor.

Elephant Urns

Associated with wisdom and strength, elephant urns are a meaningful tribute for those who valued family and resilience. These urns are particularly special for loved ones who embodied leadership and compassion.

Car Urns

Was your loved one a car enthusiast? Our car urns capture the essence of speed, engineering, and thrill. Available in sleek metallic finishes and classic vehicle shapes, these urns preserve personality along with the ashes.

Wolf Urns

Mysterious and loyal, wolf urns are fitting for someone who lived by their own rules, cherished independence, or loved the outdoors. The symbolism of the wolf brings power, guardianship, and instinct into the memorial.

Owl Urns

Symbolizing wisdom and introspection, owl urns are ideal for book lovers, teachers, or deep thinkers. These elegant urns often feature handcrafted details and quiet, reflective charm.

Final Thoughts: Cremation Is Just the Beginning of a Tribute

Understanding how cremation works is only part of the journey. The real meaning lies in how we honor those we’ve lost. Whether you’re searching for elegant cremation urns, touching urns for mom, bold urns for dad, or symbolic designs like butterfly urns, eagle urns, or owl urns, every choice reflects love and remembrance.

At LovingUrns, we’re here to help you carry those memories forward—not just in urns, but in your heart, your home, and your stories. Our collection of urns offers more than beauty—they offer connection.