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What Are Appropriate Items to Place in My Loved One’s Casket? What Items Are Not Permitted?
The items that may be placed in a casket largely depend on whether your loved one will be buried or cremated. For burials, what can be placed in a casket […]
The items that may be placed in a casket largely depend on whether your loved one will be buried or cremated. For burials, what can be placed in a casket can vary between traditional and green burials. Since green burials emphasize the importance of sustainability and eco-friendly practices, items that are not organic or biodegradable, including clothing worn by the person who died, are generally not permitted.
In contrast, many of those items would be acceptable in a casket that was intended for a traditional burial. Examples of items that you can place in your loved one’s casket prior to a traditional burial can include:
- Photos
- Flowers
- Letters
- Religious items
- Jewelry
- Keepsakes
- Stuffed animals
- Toys (without batteries)
- Blankets
- Sports items
- Memorabilia
- Musical instruments
- Military medals
- Awards
There are very few limitations regarding what can be placed in a casket prior to a traditional burial, which means that any items that were meaningful or symbolic to your loved one can typically be included. However, if the intent is to cremate your loved one, there are a few limitations to keep in mind. Generally, the following items are not permissible to place in a casket prior to cremation:
- Combustible items (explosives, fireworks)
- Electronics
- Batteries
- E-cigarettes
- Treated materials (latex, leather, chemically-treated fabrics)
- Items that may melt or harden
- Firearms
The items that you choose to place in your loved one’s casket should ideally reflect their interests, personality, values, and what was important to them. If you are uncertain whether potential items are appropriate or permissible to include in the casket prior to the cremation or burial, consult with the funeral director or crematory staff. They will be able to provide additional guidance regarding items that are compliant and may even have a few suggestions regarding other potential items that can be placed in the casket with your loved one.
Sources
“What’s usually inside a casket with the deceased’s body?” Titan Casket.
“What can you put in a coffin?” Farewill.
