Scattering Urns

Types of Scattering Urns

Scattering urns come in several designs, each built for a specific method of ash dispersal. Understanding the differences helps you choose the right urn for the ceremony your family has planned.

Land Scattering Tubes: These are the most common type of scattering urn. A cylindrical container with a removable lid or perforated top allows controlled release of ashes during a walk, hike, or garden ceremony. Many feature a built-in funnel or pour spout so ashes flow smoothly without spilling. Land scattering tubes work well for meadows, hiking trails, private property, and memorial gardens.

Water-Soluble Scattering Urns: Designed for ocean, lake, or river ceremonies, these urns float briefly on the surface before dissolving and releasing the ashes into the water. Most are made from natural materials like sand, salt, or plant-based compounds that break down completely within hours. A water-soluble scattering urn is the best choice for families planning a biodegradable urn ceremony at sea.

Aerial and Release Urns: Some ash scattering containers are engineered for mountaintop, cliff-side, or elevated release. These typically feature a wide opening or tear-away panel that lets the wind carry ashes naturally. They are popular for scenic locations and aviation-based ceremonies.

How to Choose a Scattering Urn

The right scattering urn depends on where and how your family plans to scatter the ashes. Consider these factors before ordering.

Location: Land ceremonies call for a tube-style urn with a controlled pour. Water ceremonies require a water-soluble or eco scattering urn that meets environmental guidelines. If you plan to scatter from a height, look for urns with a wide-mouth opening for clean release.

Capacity: Most scattering urns hold a full set of adult cremated remains — roughly 200 cubic inches. If you plan to divide ashes among family members, a keepsake urn can hold a small portion while the rest is scattered. Our urn sizing guide explains how to calculate the capacity you need.

Material and Eco Impact: Many families choose scattering urns biodegradable in construction — made from recycled paper, bamboo, sand, or plant fiber — so nothing is left behind after the ceremony. If environmental impact matters, look for urns labeled as fully compostable or water-soluble.

Personalization: Some scattering urns accept engraved nameplates or have a writable surface where you can add a name, date, or short message before the ceremony. For additional personalization ideas, see our urn engraving guide.

Scattering Ashes: What Families Should Know

Before purchasing a scattering urn, it helps to understand the legal and practical considerations of ash dispersal. Federal law permits scattering ashes at sea at least three nautical miles from shore, and most states allow scattering on private land with the owner's permission. National parks, forests, and other public lands have their own policies — our how to scatter ashes guide walks through the regulations, methods, and etiquette families should know.

If your family plans to keep a small portion of ashes after scattering, scattering ashes containers designed with a removable compartment make it easy to set aside a keepsake amount. You might also consider cremation jewelry as a wearable way to carry a loved one's memory. For ideas on what to do with the urn itself after the ceremony, our article on what to do with an urn after scattering ashes covers eight meaningful options.

Scattering Urns vs. Display and Burial Urns

A standard urn for ashes is designed for permanent storage — at home, in a burial vault, or in a columbarium niche. A scattering urn, by contrast, is built to open easily for a one-time release of ashes. The closure mechanism, material, and shape are all optimized for dispersal rather than display. Families who want both options often purchase a scatter urn for the ceremony and a keepsake urn or display urn to keep at home. For a broader look at all urn styles, see our types of cremation urns guide.

Free Shipping on All Scattering Urns

Every scattering urn at Memorials.com ships free within the continental United States. Most urns for scattering ashes ship within one to two business days, and expedited shipping is available if you need the urn quickly. If you have questions about which scattering urn is right for your family's ceremony, our customer service team is available by phone, email, or live chat to help.