How to Care for Your Cremation Urn
If your loved one has been cremated and you have chosen to store their cremains in an urn, it’s important that you learn how to care for and maintain the urn so it can stay in top condition for many years to come. Since urns are all made from different types of materials, the steps for taking care of your urn will depend largely on its style. In most cases, caring for your cremation urn is a relatively simple task, and will require very little of your time.
Wood urns
Store your wood urn in a location out of direct sunlight to prevent the wood from becoming cracked over time. Use a dry soft cloth and gently wipe the outer surface of the urn to clean away any excess dirt and dust. Do not use water or harsh chemical products to clean the urn, as these elements may eventually cause the wood to break down. Once every two or three months, use furniture polish designed specifically for use on wood to maintain the urn’s shine and appearance.
Ceramic urns
Store your ceramic urn on a shelf or table that is sturdy and out of the way of foot traffic, since ceramic urns may break easily if accidentally knocked over. Use a soft dry cloth to gently wipe away excess dirt and dust from the surface of the urn, and use very little water to clean spots from the urn if necessary.
Marble and glass urns
Store your marble or glass urn in a sturdy location away from foot traffic, since urns made from these materials could break easily when moved or knocked over. Use a soft dry cloth to remove dust and dirt buildup, and refrain from using any acid-based household cleaners to disinfect or clean the urn, since these elements could break down the urn — especially those made from marble. Clean the urn using an all-natural glass cleaning product if necessary, or use water. When using water on marble and glass urns, dry your urn immediately using a soft dry cloth to prevent the surface of the urn from staining.
Metal urns
Store your metal urn in a dry, safe location away from direct sunlight, since the heat from the sun can cause the shape of the urn to become warped over time. Use a soft dry cloth to wipe away any dust and dirt that has settled on the surface of the urn, and refrain from using a damp cloth, since water and other liquids may cause the urn to rust.
Heartland Cremation has four generations of experience in cremation and funeral care, and serves the greater Kansas City region, including Columbia, Boonville, Macon, and Jefferson City, Missouri. Please contact us today to learn more about the cremation services we can provide for your loved one.