Whether you’re planning a funeral for a recently passed loved one or preparing for the distant future, you want to choose the best casket for the occasion. You can either get a casket from a funeral home or shop online for one.
Regardless of where you get it from, it’s important to consider the type, design, material and cost of the casket. For example, Overnight Casket’s Mahogany Solid Wood with Velvet Interior Casket is made from high-quality material and has a rich aesthetic at a fairly reasonable price point. Whichever option you go with, here’s everything you should know before you buy.
What to know before you buy a casket
Types of caskets
There are several types of caskets: classic, cremation, decorative and biodegradable.
Classic caskets: Perhaps the most recognizable type of casket, the classic casket has a traditional style and shape. These caskets are usually made from varnished wood or metal and have exterior fittings to match. They also have a quilted inner lining. On the more expensive side, classic caskets are beautifully designed for burial and open-casket funerals.
Cremation caskets: Constructed of combustible materials like untreated wood, cremation caskets are designed to be cremated along with the body after the funeral.
Decorative caskets: Nontraditional though they may be, decorative caskets are a good option for anyone who would have wanted a quirky or unique funeral. These caskets can be customized in nearly any way imaginable with engravings, creative artwork, medallions and more to let the individual’s personality shine. Some decorative caskets are suitable for cremation or natural burial.
Biodegradable caskets: As the name implies, biodegradable caskets are constructed with materials that degrade in the ground. Popular materials include untreated wood, cardboard and seagrass. This is a good option for those who want a natural burial.
Design
There are several design options when it comes to the lining, handles and color of a casket.
Lining: Caskets can be lined with velour, velvet, silk, synthetic satin or other fabrics, depending on the style you desire. Most luxury caskets use silk lining, while more basic caskets use woven polyester taffeta or velour.
Handles: Most caskets have a bail handle, a stationary bar and a swing bar. Classic caskets usually have metal handles, while biodegradable and cremation caskets use untreated wood for their handles.
Colors: Caskets come in nearly any color, though different shades of brown and black are the most common options. Some people opt for their loved one’s favorite color when choosing a casket. Decorative caskets may have a brighter color or, in rare cases, a pattern. White is the traditional choice for the casket’s inner liner.
Size
A standard size casket can fit someone who weighs 350 pounds or less and is no more than 6 feet 10 inches tall. Oversized caskets are wider and longer to fit anyone who doesn’t fit in the standard size. Alternatively, there are smaller caskets made for children or pets.
Durability
Caskets made from metal materials like copper or bronze are among the longest-lasting options because they are resistant to corrosion. A well-constructed metal casket could last decades or longer. Biodegradable caskets typically last three or four years before fully decomposing. For improved durability of a classic casket, the casket should be placed in a concrete vault to keep out moisture, dirt and critters.
Casket features
Different fittings
Fittings include everything from the corners and handles to the exterior hardware of the casket. The material of the fittings depends on the type of casket. For instance, a classic casket may have metal fittings, while a biodegradable or cremation casket will use biodegradable materials.
Lid or closure
Caskets either have a full couch lid or a half couch lid.
Full couch lid: This is a single piece that fully lifts and seals.
Half couch lid: Common in classic caskets, the half couch lid is split to open only halfway for viewing their loved one from the waist up.
Memory drawer
Also called specialty drawers, memory drawers are installed into the side panels or the lid of the casket. Loved ones can place important keepsakes like wedding rings in these drawers.
Casket cost
A simple, biodegradable casket will cost $300-$1,000 on average. Midrange caskets cost between $1,000 and $3,000. Luxury caskets can cost as much as $15,000.
Casket FAQ
What’s the difference between a casket and a coffin?
A. Caskets are typically rectangular and made from metal, wood or biodegradable materials. Coffins have wider shoulders and taper towards the end.
Do I have to buy a casket from a specific funeral home?
A. No. While the funeral home may try to sell you a casket, they cannot refuse one you bring or have shipped to them.
How long will a casket ordered online take to arrive?
A. Shipping times depend on the manufacturer, your location and any customization requests. It may take only a few days to receive the casket you order, but it could take much longer.
Which casket should I get?
Best of the best casket
Overnight Caskets Mahogany Solid Wood W Velvet Interior: available at Amazon
Our take: High-quality classic casket made from solid mahogany with tasteful details at a reasonable price point.
What we like: Designed for men and women, it has an adjustable bed, velvet interior, a throw and a pillow. Glossy finish on the wood adds to its sophisticated appearance. Far more affordable than other caskets with similar detailing and quality materials.
What we dislike: Although it’s at a reasonable price point for the quality, it’s still a little expensive.
Best bang for your buck casket
Titan Casket Orion Coppertone Steel Casket: available at Amazon
Our take: A great budget casket that comes in various colors, including neutral and bright tones, from a company with excellent customer service.
What we like: Ready-to-ship casket that offers style and quality with crepe interior, copper finish and reinforced handles. Handcrafted casket using quality materials.
What we dislike: It’s a simple casket without elaborate finishes or details.
Honorable mention casket
Titan Casket Atlas XL Series Steel Casket: available at Amazon
Our take: Designed for a larger fit, this classic casket ships quickly to your funeral home of choice.
What we like: This casket is made from 20-gauge steel and has an adjustable bed with a soft rose tan interior. The half couch lid makes for easy viewing, while the material makes this casket durable.
What we dislike: Some of the colors are offbeat, especially for a traditional funeral.
Honorable mention casket
Overnight Caskets Lincoln Poplar Mahogany Finish with Cream Interior: available at Amazon
Our take: Made from carefully inspected materials, this option is suitable for open casket viewings and makes for a fine final resting place.
What we like: At a decent price point, this casket fits nearly any budget without sacrificing quality. Comes with a glossy finish, half couch lid and matching pillow and throw. 24/7 customer service.
What we dislike: Although this casket ships quickly in most parts of the USA, it may take longer in remote areas or certain states.
Angela Watson is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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