Which type of coffin is best for a natural burial?
If you have chosen a natural burial for yourself or for a loved one, you may be wondering about the practicalities of how the burial will take place – specifically, what you or they will be buried in. You will need to choose an ‘eco coffin’, as everything interred at natural burial grounds must be fully biodegradable. But within this category there is a wide variety of styles and materials with lots of designs to choose from. We hope this guide will help you determine which coffin is best for a natural burial, and which is right for you.
Do I need a coffin for a natural burial?
It remains the most popular choice to bury loved ones in a coffin, and there are many different types of eco-friendly coffins available that natural burial grounds would be happy to accommodate. But many are surprised to hear that you don’t need a coffin to be buried at a natural burial ground. In fact, it could be considered the most eco-friendly option to be buried without one. An alternative to a coffin that’s often used is a material shroud.
Material shrouds
Material shrouds have been used for centuries but are definitely making a comeback. Shrouds are simple coverings for the body made from materials such as wool, cotton, hemp or flax. These are completely biodegradable, so perfect for those who would prefer an eco-friendly alternative to a coffin.
Shrouds can be made in a variety of designs and even personalised to meet your requirements. For example, Bellacouche in Devon offers shroud covers that can be personalised with felt decoration kits.
Solid wood coffins
Still the most traditional choice, we are all familiar with seeing solid wood coffins at funerals. Many see this type of coffin as the most aesthetically pleasing and fitting for the occasion of a funeral, but it’s important to remember that only certain types of solid wood coffins are permitted at natural burial grounds.
For a natural burial, a solid wood coffin would need to be finished in natural, untreated wood (i.e. unvarnished) and free from any plastics, screws, staples or chemical glues. Veneered chipboard and MDF coffins are not suitable.
We suggest looking for coffins made from environmentally sustainable wood from responsibly managed forests, such as those from Natural Endings or Feet First Coffins.
Wicker coffins
Wicker coffins are a very popular choice for natural burials, and are available in a variety of styles and materials.
Willow is often used for wicker coffins as it’s known for its positive environmental benefits. Willow is a perfect material for a natural burial and looks beautiful when woven into an intricately designed coffin.
Other materials used for eco-friendly wicker coffins are bamboo, pandanus, seagrass and banana leaf. Have a look at these options from Natural Woven Coffins.
Wool coffins
Pure wool coffins are a popular choice for those wanting a softer feel, and they look beautiful too. Crafted around a wooden frame, these coffins are sturdy but with a more curved, natural look. Wool Coffins are sustainable and biodegradable, so ideal for a woodland burial.
Again, wool coffins come in a variety of styles, colours and sizes. Have a look at those on offer from The Woollen Cwtch Company in Mid-Wales.
Cardboard coffins
Cardboard coffins are fully biodegradable so an excellent choice for natural burial, plus there is the added benefit that these coffins can be personalised and designed however you wish.
Some cardboard coffins come pre-designed with a range of options to choose from, like those from Creative Coffins. There is also the option to buy a plain cardboard coffin and decorate it yourself with pictures and messages, either ahead of the funeral or on the day itself. This can be a lovely way to involve guests and children in the funeral service.
Where can I find a natural burial ground near me?
We hope this article has helped you decide which type of coffin is best for you. If you’re looking for a natural burial ground near you, you may wish to search our directory of natural burial grounds and get in touch for a tour.
Please note that Eco Endings launched in 2024 and we are still growing our directory, so if you can’t find a site nearby you may also wish to check the Natural Death Centre list of natural burial grounds across the country.
