Where to Store Ashes Temporarily Before a Final Resting Place

Have you just received cremains and wondered where to store ashes safely until a permanent resting place is chosen? This is a question many families face in the days or weeks following a cremation. Whether you’re still planning a memorial service, waiting on family to gather, or deciding on a final tribute, there are safe and respectful ways to keep ashes temporarily.

This guide will walk you through practical tips, container options, and travel considerations so you can make informed choices with peace of mind.

What Temporary Storage Means

Temporary storage of ashes refers to keeping cremated remains in a secure location for a short time until a final resting place, such as burial, scattering, or a permanent urn, is chosen. Families often do this while arranging a ceremony, deciding among memorial options, or coordinating with distant relatives.

The key is ensuring the ashes are kept safely, respectfully, and in conditions that preserve their integrity.

Essential Tips for Safe Storage

Before selecting a container or location, keep these best practices in mind:

• Label clearly: Include the name, date of passing, and contact information.
• Seal securely: Use containers with airtight lids or screw tops to prevent accidental spills.
• Avoid sunlight and humidity: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or dampness.
• Choose a stable spot: High shelves, locked drawers, or safes help prevent accidental damage.
• Check regulations: Some areas have specific laws on how ashes can be stored or transported.

These simple steps provide peace of mind while you finalize long-term plans.

Temporary Storage Options

There are many ways to keep ashes safe for the short term. Below are some of the most practical and symbolic options, ranked by common use:

1. Temporary Plastic Containers

Often provided by crematories, these are secure, inexpensive, and intended for short-term holding. While not decorative, they keep ashes safe until you choose a permanent urn.

2. Travel Urns

These are designed with portability in mind and often feature screw tops or gasket seals. Travel urns are ideal if you’ll be transporting ashes soon after cremation.

3. Wooden Boxes

Warm and natural, wooden boxes are an attractive choice for indoor storage. Just ensure the lid closes tightly and keep the box in a dry location.

4. Lockable Metal Tins

Durable and secure, metal tins are tamper-resistant and easy to store. Protect them from moisture to avoid corrosion.

5. Scattering Tubes

Lightweight and easy to use, scattering tubes are designed for ash dispersal but can also serve as temporary storage until the scattering ceremony.

6. Keepsake Urns

These small urns hold a portion of the ashes, perfect for dividing remains among family members while awaiting a permanent decision.

7. Ceramic Jars

Ceramic containers are beautiful and blend easily into home décor, but they can be fragile. Place them somewhere safe and stable.

8. Biodegradable Urns

Intended for scattering or burial, biodegradable urns are eco-friendly but not designed for extended storage.

9. Sealed Glass Vials

Compact and symbolic, these are often chosen to hold a small amount of ashes as keepsakes. Because they’re delicate, place them inside a protective box.

10. Memorial Jewelry

Lockets, pendants, and bracelets that hold a small portion of ashes allow you to carry a loved one with you wherever you go. While highly symbolic, they can only hold a tiny fraction of remains.

How to Store Ashes at Home

Many families choose to store ashes at home temporarily. To do this safely:

• Place the container in a secure cabinet or shelf out of reach of pets and children.
• Keep ashes away from humid areas like bathrooms or kitchens.
• Store in a climate-controlled environment to prevent damage to biodegradable or delicate urns.

Having the ashes nearby during this transitional period often provides emotional comfort and time for reflection.

Traveling with Ashes

Sometimes ashes must be moved between locations before the permanent resting place is ready. If you’re traveling:

• Airline rules: Most airlines allow ashes as carry-on or checked baggage, but each has its own policy. Check ahead.
• TSA screening: Choose an urn or container that is X-ray–scannable, such as plastic or wood. Metal containers may cause delays.
• Documentation: Carry a cremation certificate and a death certificate. These are often required by airlines or border authorities.
• Protective packaging: Cushion the container in a sturdy box or travel bag to avoid accidental damage.

Following these steps ensures your loved one’s ashes arrive safely and respectfully.

When Temporary Becomes Long-Term

Though many families intend short-term storage, plans sometimes change. If ashes are stored at home for longer than expected, consider upgrading to a permanent urn or niche in a columbarium. Alternatively, families might choose scattering ceremonies, burial, or unique tributes such as memorial spaceflights with Celestis, where a symbolic portion of ashes can journey into space for a celestial farewell.

Common Questions About Storing Ashes

Can I keep ashes at home?

Yes, in most places it’s legal, as long as ashes are sealed in a container and treated respectfully.

Do ashes need to be refrigerated?

No. Ashes are stable and do not require refrigeration, only safe, dry storage

Can ashes be split among family members?

Yes, many families divide ashes into smaller keepsake urns, vials, or jewelry.

How long can ashes be stored temporarily?

There is no strict limit, but they should be transferred to a permanent resting place once a decision has been made.

The Takeaway

Storing ashes temporarily is a natural part of the grieving process. Whether you choose a plastic container, wooden box, scattering tube, or keepsake urn, the key is security, labeling, and respect. If travel is involved, plan ahead with the right container and paperwork.

And if you’re exploring ways to create a truly extraordinary tribute, you might consider a memorial spaceflight with Celestis. This unique service sends a symbolic portion of ashes into space, offering a farewell that reaches the stars. To learn more, visit Celestis.com.