As providers of cremation services in Michigan City, IN. we often have requests to add personal items in the cremation container with the family’s loved one. While this can be a lovely idea and we can often times fulfill this request, there are certain times we are unable to add the items requested. If you are considering adding items in either with your own cremation or a loved one’s, here is what you need to know.
Why are Some Items Not Allowed?
Many times families may not understand why some items are allowed and others are not. The reason is that any items that could damage the environment or pose a safety risk when heated up are simply not permitted. These items include:
- Pacemakers
- Anything combustible such as lighters or bottles of alcohol
- Any item that contains a battery
- Jars or containers made from plastic or glass
- Anything made from materials that have been treated such as latex, vinyl, or leather
Items You Can Include in Cremation
Although there are quite a few items not permitted to be cremated with your loved one, there are several options of items that can be included. These are items such as:
- Letters– If your loved one had any letters they held onto, such as love letters, these can be added in the cremation container with them. These letters can also include any special notes or letters saying goodbye written to the loved one from their friends and family.
- Flowers– Flowers are a permitted item and can include fresh bouquet or dried flowers that were kept from a special event such as an anniversary, wedding, or special birthday.
- Photographs- Many families may wish to include photos of their loved one’s favorite moments such as them enjoying their favorite hobby or photos of friends and family.
- Blankets– Adding a blanket can be a nice touch as it can represent keeping their loved one safe.
- Toys– Many toys are allowed such as stuffed animals and can make a comforting and sweet addition.
- Other cremains– Many families may not realize it, but you can have cremated remains from another family member added. This combines their ashes with the deceased and joins them as one. This can be fitting for a spouse or parent.
- Religious items – Many religions permit cremation and items that can be added include thinks like prayer beads and scriptures.
A Note About Jewelry
While it is possible to have pieces of jewelry cremated with your loved one, it is important to
know that it does not break down the same way. This means that, once cremated, the metal from the jewelry will be separated from the ashes. It will be melted and misshapen and often times donated to charity if the family does not wish to have it back. Due to this, if there is a piece of jewelry that is special to you or your family, it may be better not to add it in so you can keep in tact for future generations.
If you would like to know more about what can and cannot be included in cremation services in Michigan City, IN., give us a call anytime as we are always here to help for any services needed. Visit our location now.
all need your attention. The good news is that you don’t have to do it alone. Ask other family members to help out and be in charge of certain aspects. That way each person just has one or two things they have to focus on rather than you having to try to focus on it all.
These questions should give you a great start to learning more about your parents. You can also ask questions that pertain to their final wishes and burial or 
This can range from the material of the marker to the type and even what can be engraved. Always make sure to check with the cemetery before you begin looking at markers to know what exactly you should be considering or avoiding.