Looking for biodegradable wicker coffins to have a natural burial? Here's what you need to know.
Coffins for Natural Burial
What is Natural Burial?
Natural burial, also known as "green burial," emphasizes the body's return to earth after death in a natural, eco-friendly way. It's a different mindset that cuts through much of the modern current of high-expense, expert-directed contemporary funerals that most people think of as "traditional."
But in reality, the natural burial process is the truly "traditional" funeral.
Human being throughout this earth and across time have buried their loved ones simply and naturally.
Sure, the traditions surrounding the funeral, burial, and grieving process vary considerably by culture. But throughout history people have buried their loved ones directly into the ground, wrapped in a blanket or shroud, or placed into a simple wooden or woven casket.
Natural Burial in the USA
In the United States, each state has its own laws and requirements that govern burial.
Natural burial is generally legal on your own property (though you must disclose burial in any future sale of the property).
Natural burial is also perfectly legal in your local cemeteries. Each cemetery will have its own policies regarding natural burial. Some allow it, others do not. Some (at this time, relatively very few) cemeteries only permit natural burial, while many others have a separate section for natural burials. Still other cemeteries do not permit natural burials at all. Contact each cemetery to learn about their specific practices.
To help you navigate all this, you will appreciate the assistance of a funeral director or possibly a death doula. A "death doula" or "end-of-life doula" is a knowledgeable local professional who can offer valuable guidance as you consider natural burial.
Biodegradable Wicker Coffins for Natural Burial
As you look into your options for natural or green burial, consider one of our biodegradable woven caskets.
These are 100% natural and biodegradable. They're made from sustainably produced willow, bamboo, or seagrass, and shipped anywhere in the US for much less than the cost of a "traditional" casket. It's the perfect way to honor your loved one with a beautiful coffin, yet also return them to earth in a natural, eco-friendly way.
There's even an affordably-priced DIY assembly option that allows you to participate in putting the coffin together.
Take a look at a few of these beautiful caskets below, and feel free to contact us with any questions.
Biodegradable Wicker Coffins in Bamboo
Biodegradable Wicker Coffins in Seagrass
Biodegradable Woven Six-Point Coffins in Bamboo
Shop Wicker Coffins
Browse all our woven natural burial caskets here.
You can use our biodegradable willow coffins/caskets (the terms are synonymous) for the funeral or memorial service followed by a natural ground burial.
Wicker Coffins for Natural Burial: FAQ
Can wicker coffins be used for cremation?
Yes. These caskets can also be used for cremation. A full-length lid is included with each casket, and we also offer the option for you to add a 3/4 length top that allows viewing of the body during the service or a private family visitation.
There are no metal components, which means that everything is suitable for use in cremation or natural ground burial.
Can you be buried in a wicker coffin?
Yes. Again, each cemetery will have its own policies regarding natural burial. But you can legally be buried in a wicker coffin at any cemetery that allows natural burial or in your own private property (but check local zoning laws and ordinances).
Are wicker coffins cheaper than wood?
Yes. The average cost of a wooden coffin is in the range of $2,500-5,000, and can even go up to $10,000. Just for the casket!
By contrast, wicker coffins can be had for about $1,200.
How long does it take for a body to decompose in a wicker coffin?
Without embalming or any coffin at all, it will generally take a body 8-12 years to decompose. Most biodegradable wicker materials (such as bamboo and willow) take approximately 3-4 years to decompose.
Therefore, it seems that it would take about 11-16 years for a body to decompose in a wicker coffin. However, since the body will still begin to break down while still surrounded and "protected" by the casket, it will probably take a little less time.
Of course other factors will come into play as well, including the composition of the soil and the temperature of the surrounding environment.
More questions?
If you have additional questions about our biodegradable coffins, please contact us at 877-900-5309 or by email. You can also learn a lot by reading the details on each coffin's product page. See here for options.