If you're arranging cremation services after a recent loss, it’s common to wonder, “Do they embalm before cremation?” The short answer is no, you don’t need to embalm before cremation.

Embalming only becomes relevant if you're planning a public viewing or open-casket service before the cremation takes place. In this article, we discuss when embalming is important and what the alternatives are.

Do you have questions about the cremation process? Our team at After is available 24/7 to help you through your options with transparency, care, and zero pressure. You can contact us at 1-844-717-5170.

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When Is Embalming Necessary for Cremation?

Embalming applies to cremation only in certain circumstances, not by law in most states. You might need embalming if:

• You plan a public viewing or open-casket service before cremation. Funeral homes typically require embalming when the public will attend and the casket remains open, mainly for safety and presentation.
• You need to transport the body across state or international borders. Some jurisdictions may require embalming for long-distance transport, though the rules vary.
• A long delay occurs before cremation. If cremation won’t happen for several days, embalming helps preserve the body during that time.

Under the Federal Trade Commission’s Funeral Rule, funeral homes can’t demand embalming without a clear legal or logistical reason. If a provider insists on it, ask them to explain and document the requirement.

4 Reasons Why Families Skip Embalming

Families may skip embalming before a direct cremation for many reasons, and not all of them come down to cost. Here are the other reasons we’ve come across in our experience.

It's Better for the Environment

Embalming relies on chemicals like formaldehyde and methanol. These are toxic substances that can affect the soil and groundwater over time. Families who prioritize environmental responsibility often choose cremation without embalming to reduce their ecological footprint.

It Honors Religious and Cultural Beliefs

Many faith traditions discourage embalming. For example, Hinduism and Buddhism encourage cremation as a way to release the soul, but view embalming as an unnecessary interference with the natural process.

Jewish and Muslim traditions prohibit cremation and emphasize natural burial without chemical preservation. In both faiths, they prepare the decedent and arrange burial as soon as possible, without embalming or invasive procedures.

It's Less Invasive

Embalming is a clinical procedure that involves draining bodily fluids, injecting preservatives, and manipulating facial features. For families who want a gentler, more natural approach, direct cremation offers minimal intervention.

There are no surgical techniques or chemical alterations in the process.

It's More Affordable

Embalming can add upwards of $800 to your funeral expenses. Opting out can save you the additional costs at a time when expenses may already be high.

By eliminating embalming and ceremonial services, families pay only for what's essential. This leaves room to plan a personalized memorial later, on their own terms and timeline.

What Happens if They Do Not Embalm Before Cremation?

Without embalming, the cremation process is simpler, faster, and more affordable. Here's what typically happens when families choose direct cremation.

Transportation and Refrigeration

After someone passes, the cremation provider takes them into their care and brings them to the facility. The staff gently place the decedent in refrigeration to slow natural changes.

Refrigeration provides a safe, respectful way to preserve the individual without using chemicals and comes standard with most direct cremation services.

Preparation

Before cremation, the provider removes jewelry and battery-powered medical devices such as pacemakers, which can be hazardous during the process. Metal implants like joint replacements remain in place and are separated from the ashes afterward for recycling.

The family receives any personal items, and they usually recycle medical devices. The staff won’t use any chemical preservatives, so the process remains simple and respectful.

Authorization and Identification

The family completes the necessary paperwork, including the cremation authorization form. A family member confirms identification to ensure everything proceeds accurately and in accordance with state rules.

What to Expect With After's Immediate Services

At After, our cremation packages are transparent, affordable, and free of unnecessary add-ons like embalming. Here's what it includes: 

Our base plan covers everything for a dignified direct cremation: transportation within 30 miles, all permits and paperwork, refrigeration for up to five business days, a basic cremation container, a temporary urn, and a dedicated care specialist who supports you through every step.

If you need added help like obtaining death certificates, delivering remains, or securing error protection on official documents, our additional plans provide those options at clear, upfront prices. You’ll never face hidden fees or pressure to pay for services you don’t need.

Not sure whether embalming is necessary for your situation, or do they embalm before cremation at After? Our team is here to guide you through the cremation process so you know what to expect. You can call us 24/7 at 1-844-717-5170.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Can You Wait to Cremate Without Embalming?

You can typically wait 3 to 7 days to cremate without embalming, depending on state regulations and the provider's refrigeration capabilities. Most states don't require embalming if the cremation happens within a reasonable timeframe and if refrigeration takes place appropriately.

Can You Have a Viewing Without Embalming?

You can have a private family viewing without embalming, as long as it happens soon after the death. However, most funeral homes require embalming for public viewings or open-casket services due to safety and presentation standards. If you want a viewing before cremation, ask your provider about their specific requirements.

Does Refrigeration Replace Embalming?

Refrigeration serves the same preservation purpose as embalming, but it's temporary and non-invasive. It slows decomposition naturally by keeping the individual at a cool temperature until the cremation takes place.