How to Clean and Care for Cremation Urn

An urn may very well be a container. But after a Phoenix, AZ cremation service provider delivers your loved one’s ashes, and you place it into an urn, it becomes a sentimental object that needs proper care.

Modern urns are made from various materials, each with its own maintenance requirements.

We’ve compiled a list of the five common urn materials and how to clean and care for them.

1. Ceramic Urns

Most modern urns are made of ceramic. It is a malleable material and can be shaped into any design.

But that also means they are easily breakable. You should store your ceramic urn away from foot traffic to prevent accidental shattering. This can either be inside a sturdy shelf or tabletop.

To keep it clean, use a soft dry cloth to wipe excess dirt away from the exterior surface gently. Never use water to avoid damaging the ceramic surface.

2. Glass Urns

Glass urns leave quite the impression, but they need regular cleaning to keep looking great.

Thankfully, they are easy to clean. Just wipe it with a damp cloth or quality glass cleaner. Depending on your convenience and how often it accumulates dust, you can do this every week or two.

If you opt for a glass cleaner, avoid acid-based liquids as they can break down the material.

3. Marble Urns

The high-quality nature of marble urns makes them an attractive choice for many people. They also need regular cleaning to maintain their upscale look.

However, like glass, a few minutes every couple of weeks and a soft damp cloth will remove any dirt or dust. A quality glass cleaner works too. Make sure to wipe clean to avoid leaving a stain or smudge.

4. Wood

Wooden urns do not need water, and you should actively avoid harsh chemicals. Besides that, keeping the exterior looking great for a long time is not difficult.

Use a dry cloth to wipe off any dust gently. Keep the wood urn away from direct sunlight, as overexposure can cause the tone to fade.

If your preferred placement for the urn has direct sunlight, apply UV-resistant coatings. It will slow the process, but the sun will still affect the urn’s look, and it will crack over time.

Preferably, apply furniture polish on the exterior surface every three months. It will preserve the shine.

5. Metal Urn

Metal is a durable urn material more resistant to wear and tear. However, it is susceptible to rust, so you should avoid cleaning it with water or a damp cloth.

Instead, use a dry cloth to clean dirt or dust off the surface. Also, store the urn away from direct sunlight. Overexposure to sunlight can warp the metal and damage the design.

If you have additional questions about maintaining your urn or wish to make inquiries about cremation services in Phoenix, AZ, reach out to us. You can contact us for a free consultation on your needs by phone or in person.