The Differences Between Caskets and Coffins

Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation • September 21, 2020

Many people researching funeral homes in Sterling, IL want to know the differences, if any, between caskets and coffins to be better prepared to make choices and plan.

funeral homes in Sterling, IL

If you’ve watched a movie or a TV show, you’ve probably heard the term “coffin.” But what is a coffin? What is a casket? Are there any differences between the two? If you’re asking these questions, you’re not alone. Many people researching funeral homes in Sterling, IL want to know the differences, if any, between caskets and coffins. 


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 The main differences begin in 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. 


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. 


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 even though they are very similar. All that matters is that you choose whatever is right for your lost loved one and your family. However, 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. 


Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation is a Sterling, IL funeral home. We can offer you additional information on caskets, coffins and other funeral services to help you plan a service that will honor and remember your lost loved one. Call today to learn more about what we can do for you in your time of loss. 


cremation services Amboy, IL
March 4, 2025
Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation supports grief resources and care. Learn how cremation services Amboy, IL can connect you with valuable support networks.
funeral homes Amboy, IL
March 4, 2025
Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation helps honor veterans with meaningful military honors. Discover how funeral homes Amboy, IL assist with respectful tributes.
cremation services Morrison, IL
March 4, 2025
Discover how Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation helps create personalized cremation jewelry as a lasting tribute. Explore with cremation services Morrison, IL.
funeral homes Morrison, IL
March 3, 2025
Explore how Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation helps create custom headstones that reflect legacies. Find personalized options at funeral homes Morrison, IL.
By Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation February 24, 2025
Guide to Veterans Benefits in Cremation Services Fulton, IL
By Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation February 17, 2025
Pre-Planning Funeral Service with Funeral Homes Fulton, IL
By Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation February 10, 2025
Memorial Jewelry Keepsakes with Cremation Services Amboy, IL
By Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation February 3, 2025
Announcements via Social Media with Funeral Homes Amboy, IL
By Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation January 27, 2025
Personalized Cremation Services Morrison, IL, for Veterans
The Role of Music in Creating Memorable Funerals
By Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation January 20, 2025
Since 1975, Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation has been dedicated to offering families compassionate and personalized funeral services. With nearly five decades of experience, we have earned a reputation as a trusted provider among funeral homes Morrison, IL . We recognize that each funeral service should be as unique as the individual it honors. Our commitment to tailoring every aspect of the service ensures that it reflects the deceased's life, values, and personality. By working closely with families, we create meaningful and memorable tributes that provide comfort and respect during a difficult time. The Emotional Resonance of Music Music has a profound effect on our emotions, and it plays a crucial role in creating a memorable and meaningful funeral service. Whether it’s a classical piece, a beloved hymn, or a contemporary song, music helps encapsulate the essence of the individual’s life, offering comfort and connection for those grieving. Personalized Selection: Choosing the right music can create an atmosphere of reflection and celebration. We work closely with families to understand their loved one’s musical preferences and passions, enabling us to suggest selections that will truly reflect their spirit. Creating a Meaningful Atmosphere: Music sets the tone for the service, guiding the emotional journey of the attendees. A well-chosen piece can evoke memories, bring solace, and provide an avenue for expressing feelings that words might struggle to convey. This can be particularly healing for those in mourning, offering a channel for their emotions. Integrating Music into the Service From prelude to postlude, music can be seamlessly woven throughout the funeral service to enhance its emotional impact and structure. Prelude and Postlude: The prelude sets the stage as guests arrive, creating an ambiance of quiet reflection. Conversely, the postlude can serve as a gentle farewell, leaving attendees with a sense of peace as they depart. During the Ceremony: Throughout the ceremony, music can punctuate moments of silence, accompany reading, or provide a backdrop for personal reflections and eulogies. These musical interludes can help to frame the service, marking different segments and allowing for moments of contemplation. Live Performances vs. Recorded Music: Live music, whether it’s a soloist, choir, or instrumentalist, brings a personal touch to the service, making the experience even more unique. However, recorded music can be equally powerful, providing a consistent and high-quality sound. Diverse Musical Preferences Acknowledging our community's diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, We cater to a wide range of musical traditions and preferences. Religious Hymns: For many, traditional religious hymns provide comfort and a sense of continuity, linking the service to a greater spiritual framework. Secular Songs: Secular music can capture a broad spectrum of emotions and themes, reflecting the deceased's personality and the unique moments of their life. This could range from a favorite pop song to a timeless ballad that was significant to them. Cultural Traditions: Cultural heritage can significantly influence musical choices, with specific instruments, songs, or styles playing pivotal roles in the ceremony. Respecting and incorporating these aspects can make the service deeply meaningful to the bereaved. At Schilling Funeral Home & Cremation, we understand the powerful role that music plays in creating a personalized and memorable funeral service. Music has the ability to evoke deep emotions and can serve as a meaningful tribute to the life and legacy of a loved one. As trusted providers among funeral homes Morrison, IL, we are committed to guiding families in selecting the perfect music that resonates with the personality and values of the deceased. By working closely with you, we ensure that every service reflects the individuality of your loved one. Please don't hesitate to call us for further assistance in planning a funeral.
More Posts
Share by: