How to Choose a Casket

Choosing a casket is not only an emotional journey a loved one of the deceased must take, it is also a financial and practical one. With hundreds of caskets to choose from, how do you know which is the right one? Use these steps to learn a little more about caskets and how to make the best choice for your dearly departed.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Trust the funeral director's taste. Though a stranger, this person is who you can lean on for strength during this time. They know what they are doing, so trust their guidance and instinct. However, like all industries, they have to make money, too, so if it seems the funeral director is steering you toward something that is outside your budget, speak up.
2. Take someone with you. If you are having a hard time with the grieving and planning, give the task to another person or take someone with you to help you think more clearly. Make sure it is someone who knew the deceased well and knows your budget for the entire funeral and burial costs.
3. Think of the deceased. What colors did they like? The types of wood available can vary. Think of what they would want, within reason, and select from those items. Was the deceased someone who didn't bother with frills? Or was this someone who wanted only the very best? There are caskets in every price range, from the plainest to the most "decked out"--it all depends on your preferences and budget.
4. Know your rights. Funeral homes will tend to direct you to choose one of the caskets they offer, but you need to know this is not your only choice. You can choose and purchase a casket from an independent company (often saving you money) and have the funeral home use it. Check laws in your state first, though, governing discount caskets.