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Can I Request to Have My Loved One’s Clothes Returned After the Viewing or Funeral?
Although clothing is typically not returned to the family after a viewing or funeral, this request can usually be honored if the funeral director and staff are informed beforehand. Providing […]
Although clothing is typically not returned to the family after a viewing or funeral, this request can usually be honored if the funeral director and staff are informed beforehand. Providing early notification to the funeral director regarding this request is necessary since the clothing would otherwise be cut for ease of dressing the person who died during the preparation for the viewing or funeral. If you request to have the clothing returned after the funeral or viewing, the clothing will remain intact.
Since your loved one’s clothing will not be cut for the dressing process if you request that the clothing be returned to you, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when selecting clothing for your loved one to wear. The general recommendation is to select clothing that is one to two sizes larger than the person’s usual size and with long sleeves. After death, the shape of the body tends to change as time continues to pass. Larger clothing sizes will accommodate these changes and make the dressing process easier.
Choosing to have the clothes returned to you often means that your loved one may be buried or cremated in a funeral gown or similar garment. This is one reason why it remains standard practice for a loved one to be buried or cremated in the same clothes that they were wearing during the viewing or funeral. Additionally, while the funeral home staff will wash your loved one’s clothing before it is returned to you, it will likely be washed in the same machine used for other soiled items used by the staff during body preparation.
Asking to have a loved one’s clothes returned after the viewing or funeral is a matter of personal preference. While it is not a common request, it is important to note that it is not an inappropriate request to make. Individuals who are interested in exploring this option are encouraged to consult with their funeral director for additional guidance regarding garment sizing and the timeline for receiving the returned clothing.
Sources
“Choosing Clothing Guidelines”. Lakeshore Funeral Home.
https://www.lakeshorefuneralhome.com/choosing-clothing-guidelines-2
