10 Myths About Cremation Debunked

Cremation has become the nation’s most popular disposition method. However, myths and urban legends about cremation still exist even though the funeral industry is highly regulated, with specific rules for each state. Below, you’ll find facts about cremation, how it works, and what is and isn’t true about the procedure.

1. Cremated Remains Are Ashes

Cremated remains, also known as cremains, are often referred to colloquially as “ashes.” However, in the cremation process, the predominant solid material left behind is bone fragments, which are then ground into the consistency of sand or seashells. The cremated remains vary in color but are generally gray or white. 

2. Any Company or Individual Can Ship Cremated Remains

The only authorized way to ship cremated remains is through the United States Postal Service (USPS). The USPS has very specific instructions on how to handle this. If you have arranged for your cremated provider to ship you the cremated remains, they will send them through the USPS.

3. Anything Can Accompany a Loved One

Because cremation takes place at such a high temperature, there are many objects and materials that cannot accompany a body safely. Your funeral provider can talk to you about whether your sentimental items can be safely placed with the loved one. Items to be avoided include:

Combustible Items

Anything that will explode with intense heat, including alcohol or lighters

Rubber, Leather, or Vinyl

Treated materials made from leather, vinyl, latex, or rubber

Plastic or Glass Bottles

Jars or bottles made from glass or plastic

Objects with Trapped Air

Anything that could have air trapped inside, like snow globes

Batteries

Anything with a battery, including pacemakers, cell phones, or e-cigarettes

4. Medical Devices Are Always Included in Cremation

Before cremation, technicians must remove certain medical devices that could harm workers or equipment during the procedure. The following lists which ones are removed and which can stay. Strong magnets are used after cremation to retrieve metals.

Pacemakers: Removed

These medical devices contain batteries that can explode during cremation.

Dental metals

Dental implants, such as gold or silver teeth, are usually safe to leave intact. Dental gold is a mixture of gold and alloys. While they do not entirely break down, they generally don’t pose a safety or health risk.

Medical metals

Using metal rods, pins, or plates to repair bone fractures, replace joints (like hips or knees), or prevent further damage after a head injury is common. However, it is best to remove all internal rods, pins, or plates made from steel or titanium before cremation. 

Prosthetics

Many prosthetic arms and legs contain titanium, a tough and durable metal that does not break down in a flame cremation. Steel and surgical staples also remain intact after the process. Many providers donate the metal to an appropriate recycling company.

A funeral provider may choose to remove other items, such as silicon implants, that might leave behind a difficult or messy residue.

5. A Body is Burned in Cremation

A common misconception is that flames directly burn a body that is being cremated. In fact, according to the Cremation Association of North America (CANA), cremation occurs when a body is heated to a very high temperature and separates into both gas and solid materials.

6. You Can Scatter Cremated Remains Anywhere

While cremated remains are non-toxic, their scattering is regulated by local, state, and federal laws. The best practice is to always check with the property owners where you intend to scatter cremated remains, and familiarize yourself with the laws and policies of that place.

7. Cremated Remains Can’t Be Buried or Placed in Cemetery

There are many burial options for cremated remains. They can be placed in a plot or a columbarium. Many cemeteries also have a scattering garden. These options for cremated remains give you a permanent place for your loved one. Likewise, cremation does not preclude the ability to have a ceremony or create a memorial. There are almost infinite possibilities for both. 

8. Cremation is Not Environmentally Friendly

While flame cremation uses a lot of power and releases some gases into the air, the process does not necessitate embalming chemicals, land, or non-biodegradable materials like those found in caskets. Some states have approved using “water cremation,” which is another choice with some “green” attributes.

9. Religions Don’t Approve of Cremation

While some religions don’t endorse cremation, others have always encouraged it. As cremation's popularity has increased, more of the world’s religions have softened their stance on it. Some religions have allowed cremation but issued guidelines for their members on what is appropriate. For example, the Catholic Church wants cremated remains placed in a permanent location. Checking with a local religious leader can help you determine the current thinking on funeral customs with regard to cremation.

10. You Might Receive the Wrong Ashes

According to CANA, funeral workers check the identification paperwork and tags multiple times during the cremation process. Each state has lengthy rules about how the process should take place, and operators must abide by them. Often, cremation providers use a metal tag that stays with the person throughout.

We hope that by understanding the facts and fiction about cremation, you’ll better understand whether it is the right choice for you or your family member. The Cremation Association of America and the Funeral Directors Association are good resources for additional information, along with the Afterall website. Cremation is a dignified, affordable choice for millions of people, offering a range of memorialization options,

including cremation jewelry, unique cremation urns, cremation diamonds, and much more.

For more resources and information, we recommend exploring Why Choose Cremation or Creative and Unique Ways to Remember a Loved One with Ashes. If you have any questions or need personalized assistance, find a location near you. We are here to help guide you through your options with care and understanding.