What are the Differences Between Caskets and Coffins?

What is a coffin? What is a casket? Are there any differences between the two? Many people researching funeral homes in Little Elm, TX want to know the differences, if any, between caskets and coffins as this will play a role in the planning process.

Both coffins and caskets are burial containers used to hold remains of a deceased person for a funeral, wake, visitation, and final disposition. In the United States most people use the more modern casket, but the choice between the two is ultimately the family’s or the deceased depending on final wishes.

The simple answer is that they are two different things as they each have different shapes, numbers of sides, and even price points. However, they are very similar. The longer answer comes down to the details. For starters, a casket is a special box made to hold the remains of a deceased person. These boxes are made in rectangular shapes with four sides and hinged lids. Caskets also usually have handles that make them easier to life and move and can be used for both cremations and burials depending on the material.

Caskets can be made from a variety of materials, but the two most common are wood and metal. The average metal casket is made from stainless steel and the average wood from mahogany or oak. Most caskets are finished with soft interior linings to give the deceased a comfortable place to rest.

Coffins are also boxes made to hold, transport and bury human remains. However, unlike caskets, coffins have six sides and are wider on the top than on the bottom. This tapered design was chosen to match the shape of the body as shoulders are wider than feet. Coffins also do not have hinged lids. Instead, they have removable lids that must be fully lifted. The vast majority of coffins are made out of wood and are also finished with cloth interior linings, but they do not have exterior handles for carrying.

In fact, any additional decoration or handles are not considered part of the coffin but are instead called “coffin furniture.” Traditionally coffin furniture is used to display the deceased’s wealth or status. It is important to note that it may be hard to find a coffin manufacturer as they are not in style and not as popular.  The other big difference between caskets and coffins is price. Caskets are generally more expensive as they have more decoration and use more elaborate materials. Coffins, on the other hand, require less material as the tapered shape uses less wood and thus lowers the overall price. At the end of the day, the differences between caskets and coffins don’t matter. All that matters is that you choose whatever is right for your lost loved one and your family.

You have many options when it comes to planning a funeral, including which Little Elm, TX funeral home to choose. Slay Memorial Funeral Center is here to help make your decision easier. Call or visit us to learn more.