With cremation becoming more common, more people need to find the right urn for their loved one’s ashes. With thousands of urns for ashes to choose from, how do you find the right fit? This is especially difficult when looking for a cremation urn to your father, someone who has always been there for you.
Overview: Our Top Picks
- Custom Urns from Foreverence
- Mini Urns ($5.00+)
- Amber Glass Growlers ($30.99)
- 32-Ounce Mason Jars 2-Pack ($11.30)
- Biodegradable Water Urn ($139.00)
- Glass Decanter with Airtight Stopper ($39.99)
- Large White Candle Urn ($139.47)
- Teddy Bear Urn ($72.29)
- Stainless Steel Cremation Urn Necklace ($17.51)
- Eterneva Memorial Diamonds
- Cremation Bracelet ($15.67)
Jump ahead to these sections:
- What to Look for in a Cremation Urn for Your Dad’s Ashes
- Small or Mini Cremation Urns for Dad
- Large Cremation Urns for Dad
- Unique Cremation Urns for Dad
- Cremation Jewelry for Dad’s Ashes
- Where Can You Purchase an Urn for Your Dad’s Ashes Online?
- Frequently Asked Questions: Buying an Urn for Dad’s Ashes
The good news is you have a lot to choose from. Whether you want a large, small, or unique urn, there are so many ways to find something that speaks to you. An urn is an easy way to honor your dad’s memory, and you’ll remember his legacy every time you catch sight of the urn.
In this guide, we’ll look into the many types of cremation urns for your dad’s ashes. No matter the selection you choose, this is something you’ll cherish and appreciate for years to come.
Tip: If you're looking for something very unique (think a game, their motorcycle, or instrument of choice), you can custom order an urn from a store like Foreverence. You submit a design idea or sketch, then the company designs and 3D prints your urn, so you get a 100% unique container.
What to Look for in a Cremation Urn for Your Dad’s Ashes
When looking for a cremation urn for your dad’s ashes, there are many different things to consider. Not only are there different types of urns, but there are also different components and price points. Since this is a tribute to your father, make sure it’s meaningful to you. Look for these things in a cremation urn:
- Size: Depending on how the urn will be used, you might choose a traditional or unique size. While individual urns are for holding an average adult, you might choose a small or companion urn depending on your needs.
- Material: Many people are surprised to learn just how many materials urns come in. The most common materials are wood, metal, stone, and ceramic.
- Design: While you’re likely familiar with traditional urn designs, you might also want something that honors your dad’s personality.
- Personalization: Some urns can also be personalized, typically with engraving.
- Cost: Finally, always consider the cost of the urn and how it fits within your funeral budget. Most urns are inexpensive, but some can run upwards of $100 or more.
Most people are inexperienced when it comes to shopping for cremation urns, and that’s OK. This is a learning experience, and it’s possible to figure it out as you shop. Luckily, you have more options than ever before.
Small or Mini Cremation Urns for Dad
There are a lot of misconceptions about cremations, and one of the most common is that the cremation has to be large. In reality, you might choose to have a smaller urn for any number of reasons. Some choose to divide ashes after cremation amongst family members, and others just want something compact.
Luckily, there are a number of small or mini cremation urns that are perfect for dad. These help you keep dad’s memory close, whether you’re looking to keep his cremated remains for yourself or scatter the ashes.
1. Mini urn
Did you know there’s such a thing as a mini urn? With the lower cost of cremation being the reason so many families choose this option, a mini urn is a low-cost alternative to a large, expensive urn.
Mini urns are exactly what they sound like—small, personalized urns that hold a small amount of your dad’s remains. These are perfect for keeping a small handful of ashes if you choose to divide them amongst family or scatter the majority somewhere special.
2. Growler
If your dad was a craft beer connoisseur or homebrewer, honor his memory with a growler. These are small containers meant to hold beer, and they also make the perfect urn.
The standard growlers hold 64 ounces, so these are ideal for holding a family member’s remains. Better yet, these are easy to personalize with your dad’s name, quotes, and images. For a budget option, use an empty growler from his favorite local brewery. What an inspiring tribute!
3. Mason jar
Another low-cost, DIY option is to use a mason jar. Mason jars are the perfect symbol for home life, so it’s no wonder that this is a popular urn choice. The best thing is that these are so small enough to stow on a shelf, desk, or within a memory box.
You can leave the mason jar as-is, paint it, or decorate it with photos. Though simple, this is a powerful way to honor a loved one’s memory with a special project.
4. Tackle box
For the fishing fanatic, a tackle box is the best way to keep your dad’s memory alive. The best part about this option is that it’s easy to get the size you need. There are tackle boxes in all shapes and sizes, so you can find the best one to suit your space needs.
5. Small box
Finally, you can also store your dad’s remains in a small box. This could be as simple as a cardboard box or even a memory chest, depending on your budget and needs.
A small box is perfect for scattering ashes, dividing ashes, or just keeping your loved one’s memory nearby within your home. There’s no need to purchase a costly urn or cremation chamber when a small box does the trick just as well.
Large Cremation Urns for Dad
For dads with big personalities, leave a big legacy with a larger cremation urn. While the thought really is what counts, these ideas truly make a statement. They aren’t something you’re likely to overlook anytime soon.
6. Rock urn
For the man who was always your ‘rock,’ a rock urn is a great idea. These larger cremation urns store your dad’s ashes in a memorial rock. This is typically an artificial rock that’s built to last outdoors. It looks perfect in a garden, outdoor space, or beloved backyard.
7. Extra large vase
Sometimes the traditional cremation urn size isn’t enough. For men who are especially tall or have large frames, a larger vase might be necessary. While this sounds complicated, this is a normal request that most crematoriums can accommodate with ease.
A larger vase might run you a little bit more expensive than a traditional size, but it’s still just as customizable. These have a larger stature, but they’re still a great reminder of your father’s legacy.
8. Wooden urn
A wooden urn can be like an art piece within itself. These are both standard and custom made, offering a lot of unique shapes depending on your wishes. The large wood of this type of urn makes the perfect back-to-nature final resting place for a man who loved the great outdoors.
9. Biodegradable burial box
You have a lot of options when it comes to cremated remains. While many choose to keep these forever as an heirloom and memory piece, this isn’t your only choice. A biodegradable burial box is something you bury within the ground that decomposes naturally over time.
This is a great compromise between a burial and a cremation, allowing you to host a small ceremony with the burial. These burial boxes are sometimes larger, making the perfect ceremony centerpiece for a memorial service.
10. Biodegradable water urn
Another option similar to a biodegradable burial box is intended for water burials, not ground burials. These urns float out at sea, naturally biodegrading beneath the water. For the dad that loved the ocean or the water, this is a powerful way to honor their memory.
Unique Cremation Urns for Dad
If you’d like something as unique as the man you’re honoring, there are also a lot of unique cremation urns that are a great fit for your dad. These are as functional as they are stylish, and they allow you to truly personalize this experience.
11. Decanter or whisky barrel
For the whiskey enthusiast or a lover of fine liquor, honor their memory with a glass decanter or wooden whiskey barrel. These are inexpensive, and you can find the right size, shape, and material for your needs. Consider your dad’s favorite drink, and choose the right cremation urn for their needs.
12. Candle urn
Some urns also double as candles. These are the perfect memorial for your loved one, and they’re a gorgeous addition to any space. A candle urn allows you to light a candle in his memory, honor his death anniversary, and just keep his memory alive.
13. Book urn
If you’re up for a DIY or you can find a local crafter, a book urn is a great way to honor your dad if he was a bookworm. All you need is to carve out a real book, creating a safe space to store remains. Hold your loved one’s memory close to their favorite reads.
14. Watering can
Was your dad a lover of gardening? If he had a green thumb, share this passion by using a watering can as his urn. Not only is this an easy, inexpensive choice, but you can store his remains close to his favorite plants.
15. Teddy bear urn
There are many companies offering teddy bear urns that make the perfect memento. This transforms a large, cuddly teddy bear into a sentimental vessel for holding your father’s ashes. The ashes are secured inside so you can always have this friendly bear watching over you.
Cremation Jewelry for Dad’s Ashes
Finally, cremation jewelry is also gaining in popularity. Keep your dad close to your heart with one of these ideas.
16. Urn necklace
Know he’s close to you by wearing an urn necklace. These are small, sentimental pieces of jewelry that are designed to hold a small amount of your loved one’s ashes. They’re super stylish, so you’ll never guess what’s inside.
17. Memorial diamond
Memorial diamonds are created from the ashes of loved ones, letting you wear them within your jewelry collection. Whether you choose diamond earrings or a ring, this is a gorgeous tribute.
Some companies, like Eterneva, create lab-grown diamonds and allow you to pick from several cuts and colors for your gemstone.
18. Pendant
Many custom jewelry makers design custom pieces with your loved ones in mind. They can create jewelry encompassing your dad’s ashes, like a stunning pendant that matches your everyday style.
19. Keychain
Your dad was always there when you needed him. Now, take him with you everywhere with a mini urn keychain. This ensures he’s always by your side, no matter what.
20. Engraved cremation bracelet
Finally, a cremation bracelet allows you to subtly store your dad’s ashes on your wrist. Better yet, customize this bracelet with your dad’s handwriting, favorite quote, or memorial poetry.
Where Can You Purchase an Urn for Your Dad’s Ashes Online?
In this day and age, it’s easier than ever to purchase an urn for ashes online. No matter your budget or style, there’s an online retailer for you. Here are some of the best places to purchase an urn for your dad’s ashes online.
Etsy
The first place to find unique urns for your dad’s ashes is on Etsy. This online creator marketplace is full of handmade sellers, many of whom personalize urns. This is a great choice if you want a custom engraving or something entirely original.
Stardust Memorials
Next, Stardust Memorials is a leading urn provider that has helped families find the right memorial products for decades. At Stardust Memorials, you’ll find all types of urns in unique sizes, shapes, colors, and materials. These are affordably priced, and you can also explore reviews. Another major perk is that Stardust Memorials offers free shipping, saving you even more.
Modern Memorials
Modern Memorials is another trusted source of urns. With hand-curated selections, you can find wood, ceramic, stone, or eco-friendly urns at a comfortable price. With free shipping and returns, this is an online retailer you can trust. With both handmade and low-cost urns, you can find anything to suit your style and aesthetic.
One World Memorials
Another well-known provider is One World Memorials which has urns, keepsakes, and jewelry for those mourning a loss. Using masterful craftsmanship, One World Memorials only sources the best products and materials. They strive to ensure they offer competitive, affordable prices to suit any budget. With a 60-day money-back guarantee, this is a great choice.
Amazon
The world’s largest online retailer, Amazon, also offers many urns. With Prime service and delivery options, this is a natural choice. However, be sure to read reviews to make sure you’re choosing from a quality seller. With so many urns at different price ranges, Amazon is one of the most reliable urn sources online.
The Living Urn
Last but not least, The Living Urn has keepsake urns, biodegradable urns, scattering tubes, and eco-friendly urns. With years of experience in the green burial movement, this is a great provider of urns that are more eco-conscious.
Frequently Asked Questions: Buying an Urn for Dad’s Ashes
Because most people are new to buying urns when they start their search, it’s normal to have questions. Read through these frequently asked questions below to understand the most common concerns.
What size urn do you need for your dad's ashes?
There are multiple different sizes of urns, and this will guide your search. The size you choose depends on how many ashes you have, as well as what you wish to do with those ashes. The most common sizes you’ll find online are:
- Individual: An individual-sized urn is intended for the average grown adult. These are the most common urns, and they’re the size you’re most familiar with.
- Companion: A companion urn is larger than an individual urn. These are either multiple urns together or a single large urn. They’re for multiple people, such as a couple.
- Infant or pet: An infant or pet urn is smaller, designed only for a small person (infant or child) or a beloved pet.
- Keepsake: Lastly, a keepsake urn is the smallest option. These are for only a small bit of ashes, typically after a scattering ceremony or sharing ashes amongst multiple people.
Which size should you choose? The decision is a personal one, and it’s based on your intended use for the urn. For most, an individual urn is usually the best choice.
Do people add anything else to their dad’s urn besides ashes?
Believe it or not, urns aren’t only for ashes. You are free to include anything you wish in your dad’s urn. This is a highly personal choice, and it’s up to you what you want to include beyond ashes.
What are common things people include? Some ideas are photos, keys, notes, quotes, scripture, artwork, and other mementos. Mixing these special things in with your father’s ashes makes for a powerful tribute, helping you capture the things that made your dad special.
How do you transfer your dad’s ashes to an urn?
Transferring ashes to an urn is an easy process, but it’s something you’ll want to handle with care. To transfer ashes, first start by following your urn’s instructions. Many urn manufacturers have their own instructions and specifications, so these should always be followed first.
Once you’re ready, use a funnel to slowly pour the ashes into the opening in the urn. It’s a good idea to do this over a solid surface in case some ashes spill. When you’re done, secure the lid or cover on the urn. Keep your urn somewhere safe or follow the manufacturer’s instructions if it’s an eco-friendly urn.
Honor Your Dad’s Memory
Whether you’re planning for his funeral or upgrading your dad’s existing urn, there are so many ways to honor this man’s life. It’s hard to put your dad’s legacy and impact into words. By doing something truly personal with his ashes, you keep his memory alive.
These ideas above are perfect for any budget and personality. How do you keep your dad’s cremated ashes close? What does his legacy mean to you? There is no single right answer.