When placing ashes in a columbarium (columb.), it is key to pick the right urn. A good urn will fit the space, last long, and look nice. Let’s look at what to think about and what others have done.
Size Matters
Each niche in a columb. has limtd space. A reg. niche is often 10x10x10 in. So, the urn must be small enuf to fit. Bob & Linda from TX found out the hard way. They bought a large stone urn and it did not fit. They had to buy a new one.
Tip: Always measure the niche be4 buying an urn.
Matrl Choice
The best urns for columb. use durble matrls. Metal, stone, and ceramic last the longest. Wood may not last as well in humd air.
Sue in FL chose a brass urn. Even after 5 yrs, it still looks new. Her sis used a wood urn, but it cracked in 2 yrs.
Design and Looks
Some families want a urn that shows the loved one’s style. Many columb. allow urns with color, etching, or small photo holders.
In CA, Tom got an urn with his dad’s fav. quote. It made the niche feel more personal.
Cost vs. Quality
Don’t just buy the chpest urn. A better urn lasts longer. Mid-prce urns ($100-$300 USD) often give good value.
Pat from NY went for a low-cost plastic urn. It faded fast. He later chose a ceramic urn for peace of mind.
Labeling the Urn
Most columb. need urns with the full name and dates. Some urns come with a plaq. or sticker. Others need you to add it.
Anna from OH used a label maker for hers. She said it was cheap but looked fine.
Final Words
Pick a urn that fits well, lasts, and feels right for the family. Ask the columb. first what they allow. Others have made mistakes—learn from them!
