Sofia Martinez
Losing a loved one is a difficult time, and knowing how to open the container with their ashes is an important step in handling them after their passing. Many plastic cremation containers are designed with a visibly protruding circle on one end, which can be pried open with a flat-headed screwdriver. The cremated remains are usually stored in a plastic bag inside the container, which can be carefully cut open and transferred to another container, such as an urn, using a funnel. It is recommended to do this indoors, away from any fans, and to have a mat or tray underneath to catch any spilled ashes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic cremation containers | Have a visibly protruding circle on one end |
| Opening plastic cremation containers | Use a tool to pry open the circle, such as a flathead screwdriver |
| Reasons for opening the plastic bag inside the container | To divide the remains among loved ones, to scatter the ashes, or to transfer them to a piece of memorial jewellery |
| Transferring ashes to a permanent urn | Use a funnel to guide the ashes into the urn, seal the urn with caulk, glue, or sealant |
| Transferring ashes to memorial jewellery | Use a funnel to scoop a small portion of ashes from the plastic bag and pour into the jewellery |
| Scattering ashes | Use a scattering urn, which is designed to securely transport the ashes and make scattering easy and dignified |
| Water urns | Designed to dissolve into the water, gently and safely dispersing the ashes |
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What You'll Learn
Ask the funeral home for advice on opening the container
It is always a good idea to ask the funeral home or crematorium for advice on opening the container and transferring the ashes. Funeral home personnel are professionals who are well-versed in handling ashes and can advise on the best method for opening the container, as the containers themselves may vary from place to place. They can also guide you on transferring the ashes into a cremation urn, scattering tube, or piece of memorial jewellery.
If you intend to transfer the ashes yourself, it is important to prepare a stable workspace. Cover the surface with newspaper or a mat to catch any spilled ashes. You will also need a funnel, a plastic bag, and a suitable receptacle such as an urn or scattering tube. Cut open the plastic bag containing the ashes and use the funnel to guide them into the new receptacle. Seal the new receptacle if desired.
If you feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable with the process, you can always request that the funeral home personnel handle the transfer for you. This is a common practice, and they will usually be happy to assist you in any way they can. Remember, losing a loved one is a difficult time, and asking for help is perfectly normal and encouraged.
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Use a flathead screwdriver to pry open the container
To open a plastic cremation container, you will need a flathead screwdriver. This is a safe and effective method, as the flathead will not pierce or damage the contents of the container.
First, locate the visibly protruding circle on the end of the container. This is a common feature of plastic cremation containers and is designed to be pried open. Place the flathead screwdriver into the groove of the circle and gently apply leverage to pop it open. This may take some force, but the lid should come off without causing any damage.
If the lid is particularly stubborn, there are a few other methods you can try before returning to the flathead screwdriver. Try running the container under hot water to loosen the lid, or alternatively, try freezing the container and then running it under hot water. This temperature change can be effective in loosening the lid.
Once the lid is removed, you will be able to transfer the ashes to another receptacle, such as an urn or keepsake jewellery. It is recommended to do this indoors, away from any fans, and to use a mat or tray to catch any spilled ashes.
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Decant ashes into a new urn using a funnel
Decanting the ashes of a loved one can be an important step in dealing with their passing. Undertaking the process can help provide closure and create a sense of personal ritual around the grieving process.
To decant ashes into a new urn using a funnel, you must first prepare your area and tools. Choose a flat, level, well-lit workspace, free of distractions, wind, and foot traffic. Gather your tools: a funnel, a flathead or Phillips-head screwdriver (depending on the plastic cremation box), the plastic cremation box, and the new urn. Place the new urn on a clean, non-porous desk or table, or cover the surface with newspaper or a towel to easily collect any spilled ash.
Next, open the plastic cremation box using a screwdriver to pry open the lid or a visibly protruding circle on the end. Place the funnel into the opening of the new urn. While holding the opened plastic cremation box, carefully tip it over the funnel and allow the ashes to fall gently into the funnel and then into the urn. If you don't see any spillage, continue pouring the ashes through the funnel until the box is empty. If you're using a sealed plastic bag inside the cremation box, cut a diagonal hole in one corner of the bag to create a small spout, then pour the ashes through the funnel.
Once the ashes have been fully decanted, remove the funnel and discard the plastic cremation box. Finally, gently close the new urn until it is completely tight. You can seal the urn with a bead of household caulk if desired, but avoid using glue or other permanent sealants.
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Seal the urn with caulk or glue
If you have poured the ashes directly into a ceramic or glass urn, you may want to seal the lid. This is not necessary if the ashes are in a plastic bag inside the urn.
To seal the urn, place a bead of household caulk or silicone around the edge of the lid. You can also use wood glue or plumber's tape. However, it is not recommended to use super glue or another heavy-duty sealant as these are permanent and difficult to remove if you ever need to open the urn in the future.
Let the sealant dry for at least 24 hours. A sealed urn can be opened using some force or pressure or by wiggling and twisting it from side to side to loosen the adhesive. If this does not work, a flathead screwdriver can help to pry the lid off, but be cautious not to damage the urn.
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Transfer ashes into keepsake jewellery
Transferring the ashes of a loved one into keepsake jewellery can be a challenging but meaningful process. It is important to handle the ashes with care and respect. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Opening the Plastic Ashes Container
Firstly, you need to open the plastic cremation container. These containers are often designed with a protruding circle on one end. To open it, use a flat-headed screwdriver or a similar tool to gently pry open the circle. This will expose the ashes, allowing you to transfer them into your chosen receptacle or jewellery.
Preparing the Ashes
Before transferring the ashes into jewellery, you may need to open the plastic bag containing the ashes. Cut open the bag carefully and consider using a funnel to guide the ashes into their new container. A large funnel can be placed directly into the jewellery, and the ashes can be poured through it. If a funnel is not available, you can create a mini funnel using a small piece of cardboard or thick paper rolled into a cone. Place a shallow bowl underneath to catch any spilled ashes.
Choosing the Right Jewellery
Cremation jewellery, also known as memorial or keepsake jewellery, comes in various forms, including necklaces, pendants, earrings, bracelets, and rings. You can choose from different materials such as glass, resin, gemstones, or precious metals like gold, silver, or platinum. Consider the person's hobbies and interests and favourite colours to create a meaningful keepsake.
Filling the Jewellery
Keepsake jewellery is designed to hold a small portion of ashes. Carefully fill the jewellery with the ashes, ensuring precision and attention to detail. The amount of ashes used will depend on the size and design of the piece. Once filled, seal the jewellery securely.
Honouring Your Loved One
Transferring ashes into keepsake jewellery is a personal and emotional journey. It allows you to carry a piece of your loved one with you, sparking conversations and stories that keep their memory alive. These pieces can become cherished family heirlooms, passed down through generations.
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Frequently asked questions
Most plastic cremation containers have a visibly protruding circle on one end. To open these containers, use a flat-headed screwdriver or another tool to pry open the circle. Once the container is open, transfer your loved one's ashes to a more suitable receptacle, such as an urn.
First, place a towel or newspaper on a flat surface and put the empty urn on top. Then, place a funnel into the opening of the urn. Next, cut a diagonal hole in one corner of the plastic bag containing the ashes to create a spout. Finally, pour the ashes slowly through the funnel and into the urn.
If the urn has a small opening, you may need to cut open the bag containing the ashes and pour them directly into the urn. Alternatively, you can use a large funnel to transfer the ashes into a new bag, which can then be placed inside the urn.
