What is Cremation?

Despite the fact that cremation has been steadily growing in both acceptance and popularity over the past few decades, there are still those who don’t have a full understanding of the practice, what it means, and the multiple final disposition options it provides. So today we will explore the question, “What is cremation?”

The short answer to “What is cremation?” is that it is a means of reducing the human body to its most natural state – ash and bone. The process by which the human body is returned to this state requires far less preparation than one who elects for a traditional burial. This is because when you are buried, (in most instances), your body must be prepared, using an assortment of chemicals meant to retard the natural decomposition that begins immediately at death.

Cremation, on the other hand, requires no embalming. This is not only better for the environment, but it also represents a substantial cost savings when compared to traditional burial. There are many other factors that make the cost of cremation far less than the cost of burial:

  • No ornamental casket purchase required
  • No headstone purchase required
  • No cemetery plot or cement vault purchase required

Aside from being more economical than a traditional burial, a cremation is also the greener alternative. As mentioned above, a cremation requires no embalming. The chemicals used in this process are known to leach into the ground around the burial site and can even make it into the water table. This is, understandably, bad for our environment.

Another benefit of cremation is, unlike traditional burial, the sheer number of final disposition options is near limitless. A decorative urn placed in a prominent location within the home keeps your loved one always near. Still others have recorded in their final wishes that they would like their ashes scattered in a place that is special to them. Other options include:

  • Launching cremated remains into space
  • Having cremated remains interred in an underwater reef
  • Including the cremated remains into a number of different specialty products like jewelry, fireworks, vinyl records, and bullets

Cremation is ecologically sound. Cremation is inexpensive. Cremation is simple. If you have further questions about cremation or you are ready to begin preplanning your cremation today, call us at (503) 402-2578.

Trusted by:

Free Guide

Get Your Pricing and Free Cremation Guide

We will never sell or share your information.

“I cannot over stress the importance of pre-planning one’s end of life arrangements. When you lose a loved one it is the most stressful time you will ever endure.”
Diana G, Beaverton, OR

“It was so nice to not have to deal with all the arrangements.”
Debbie F, Vancouver, WA

“They worked with us from start to finish. Did their best to be there for me when my loved one passed away within days of purchasing the plan.”
Chris W, Lakebay, WA

“They handled everything from start to finish in a timely fashion. Takes the worry and stress out of a difficult situation.”
Alan Y, Renton, WA

“Very professional and caring! I would highly recommend this service for anyone looking into cremation! Made a sad time a little more bearable.”
Chrissy P, Banning, CA

“I would like to thank you very much for helping me through this difficult time – you were very nice and I would have not been able to deal with the cremation without you. ”
Lynn K, Port Orford, OR

“I hope it will be years and years before we actually use this service but it feels great not to have to worry about it anymore.”
Sue K, Carlsbad, CA
quotation mark
“I cannot over stress the importance of pre-planning one’s end of life arrangements. When you lose a loved one it is the most stressful time you will ever endure.” – Diana G.
SEE MORE TESTIMONIALS

Video Library

Fred and Sharon
Orange County, CA

Patricia
Yorba Linda, CA

Smart Cremation’s Process

direct cremation services near me

SAVE 44% OR MORE ON FUNERAL FEES

Planning Ahead?

We guarantee to respond immediately with your cremation price quote as well as additional service information.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Planning Ahead?

We guarantee to respond immediately with your cremation price quote as well as additional service information.

Get Your Free Planning Guide and Local Price