Introduction
Funeral traditions are changing as more people look for options that are kind to the planet and easy on the budget. One choice that is becoming very popular is the cardboard casket. These caskets are affordable, simple, and much better for the environment than traditional wooden or metal coffins.
In this article, we will talk about everything you need to know about cardboard caskets. We will cover how much they cost, how you can make one yourself, whether they can be used for cremation, and the main benefits of choosing them. We will also answer some of the most common questions people have.
What Is a Cardboard Casket?
A cardboard casket is a type of coffin made from thick, strong cardboard instead of wood or metal. It is designed to hold a body for burial or cremation, just like a traditional casket. Cardboard caskets are biodegradable, which means they break down naturally and do not harm the environment.
People choose cardboard caskets because they are eco-friendly, affordable, and can be easily customized. Unlike heavy wooden coffins, these caskets are lightweight and simple to handle. They also allow families to decorate them with paint, photos, or personal messages, making the farewell more meaningful.
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Cardboard caskets are sometimes called biodegradable coffins or eco-friendly caskets because they help reduce waste and pollution. This makes them a good choice for green or natural burials and for families who want a simple, sustainable option.
Benefits of Choosing a Cardboard Casket
One of the biggest benefits of a cardboard casket is that it is environmentally friendly. It is made from recycled materials and is fully biodegradable, which means it naturally breaks down without harming the earth. This makes it a perfect choice for people who care about the planet and want a green or natural funeral.
Another major advantage is affordability. Cardboard caskets cost much less than traditional wooden or metal coffins, making them a budget-friendly option for families who want to keep funeral costs low without sacrificing dignity or respect.
Even though they are lightweight, cardboard caskets are surprisingly strong and sturdy. They can safely hold the weight of an adult, and they are approved for use in both burial and cremation.
Finally, they are a great choice for green funerals. Many cemeteries now offer eco-friendly burial options, and a cardboard casket fits perfectly with these values. It’s simple, sustainable, and respectful to nature.
Key benefits include:
- Made from recycled, biodegradable materials
- Affordable compared to traditional coffins
- Lightweight yet strong and sturdy
- Suitable for both burial and cremation
- Ideal for green or natural funerals
How to Make a Casket Out of Cardboard
Making a casket out of cardboard is easier than most people think, and it can also be a meaningful DIY project. To start, you will need some basic materials: thick corrugated cardboard sheets, strong tape or glue, a ruler, a marker, and a utility knife for cutting.
Steps to make the casket:
- Measure and mark: Measure the length, width, and height needed based on the person’s size. Mark these measurements on the cardboard sheets.
- Cut the pieces: Carefully cut out the base, sides, and lid of the casket using a utility knife.
- Fold and assemble: Fold the cardboard sides to shape the box. Attach the sides to the base using strong tape or glue, making sure all corners are secure.
- Reinforce for strength: Add extra layers of cardboard to the bottom and sides for durability. You can also place a wooden board at the base if additional support is needed.
- Check durability: Before use, ensure the casket is strong enough to safely hold the weight.
Safety tips:
- Always wear gloves when cutting cardboard to avoid injury.
- Work on a flat surface to keep pieces steady.
- Smooth out or cover any sharp edges to prevent accidents.
If you want a visual guide, many eco-friendly funeral websites offer free diagrams and templates that show exactly how to cut and fold the pieces to build the casket step-by-step.
How Much Does a Cardboard Casket Cost?
Cardboard caskets are one of the most affordable options for funerals. The price usually ranges from $100 to $500, depending on the size, design, and level of customization. Plain cardboard caskets without decoration are the cheapest, while those with printed designs or special finishes cost a little more.
When compared to traditional wooden or metal caskets, the savings are significant. Wooden coffins can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000, and metal caskets can be even more expensive. This makes cardboard caskets a great choice for families looking for a budget-friendly solution without compromising on respect and dignity.
For those wanting the lowest cost possible, cheap cardboard caskets are available online and through many funeral providers. These are simple, eco-friendly, and still meet all the basic requirements for burial or cremation.
Cost Comparison Table
| Casket Type | Price Range | Notes |
| Cardboard Casket | $100 – $500 | Affordable, eco-friendly, customizable |
| Wooden Casket | $2,000 – $5,000 | Traditional, more expensive |
| Metal Casket | $3,000 – $10,000+ | Durable but costly |
Cardboard Cremation Caskets
Cardboard caskets are an excellent choice for cremation because they burn easily and cleanly, leaving very little ash or residue. This makes them more efficient than traditional wooden or metal coffins, which can take longer to burn and produce more emissions.
Most crematoriums allow cardboard caskets, but it’s always important to check local regulations and restrictions before making a decision. Some facilities require the casket to meet specific weight or size standards for safety reasons.
Many cardboard cremation caskets also come with heat-resistant liners or coatings to make handling easier and safer during the process. These features do not affect the eco-friendly nature of the casket, as they are still made from biodegradable materials.
Cardboard Funeral Caskets for Burials
Cardboard caskets are a popular choice for burial, especially in green cemeteries that support the use of natural and biodegradable materials.
Here are some key points about their suitability and benefits:
- Cardboard caskets break down naturally in the soil, helping return the body to the earth without harming the environment.
- Despite being lightweight, they are strong and durable enough to support the weight of an adult, especially when reinforced properly.
- Some cardboard casket models come with extra layers or internal supports for added strength and durability.
- Compared to other eco-friendly options like wicker or bamboo coffins, cardboard caskets are usually the most affordable and easiest to find.
- They provide the same environmental benefits as other natural materials, while being a simple and cost-effective choice for green burials.
Cheap Cardboard Caskets: Where to Buy
If you’re looking for affordable cardboard caskets, there are several good places to start your search. Many online retailers like Amazon and specialized funeral suppliers offer a wide variety of cardboard coffins at budget-friendly prices. Shopping online allows you to easily compare different styles, prices, and customer reviews to find the best fit.
In addition to online shopping, local funeral homes are also becoming a great resource. More funeral homes now offer eco-friendly and cost-effective options, including cardboard caskets. They may have some in stock, or they can order one for you and recommend trusted sellers.
For those who want to save even more money and add a personal touch, making a DIY cardboard casket is an option. While this requires some time, effort, and basic tools, it can be the most affordable way to create a personalized and environmentally friendly coffin.
Where to find cheap cardboard caskets:
- Online retailers such as Amazon and funeral supply websites
- Local funeral homes offering eco-friendly options
- DIY projects for a custom, budget-friendly coffin
Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Traditional Coffins
Besides cardboard, there are other biodegradable coffin options that are becoming popular. These include coffins made from natural materials like wicker, bamboo, and other recycled or sustainable resources.
Many people choose these green funeral casket options because they reduce environmental harm and align with values of sustainability and respect for nature. Green funerals help families feel that their loved one’s final resting place supports the earth’s health.
The benefits extend beyond nature choosing an eco-friendly casket can also bring peace of mind and comfort to families, knowing they made a responsible and meaningful choice.
Conclusion
Cardboard caskets offer many benefits. They are kind to the environment because they are biodegradable and made from recycled materials. They also save money, making funerals more affordable without losing respect or dignity. Lightweight and strong, they fit well with green burial practices and eco-friendly cremations.
If you are planning a funeral or helping a loved one, consider choosing sustainable options like cardboard caskets. These choices help protect the planet while honoring those we care about.
To learn more, compare different eco-friendly caskets, or even try making your own cardboard casket, explore available resources and find the option that feels right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rachel Smith, Funeral Insurance Specialist
Rachel Smith is a dedicated funeral insurance expert at Pay For Funeral, with over 10 years of experience helping families find peace of mind during life’s most sensitive moments. Known for her warm, compassionate approach, Rachel empowers individuals to plan with clarity, dignity, and confidence. She specializes in simplifying funeral insurance, making it approachable, affordable, and tailored to each person’s unique needs. Through every article she writes, Rachel strives to educate, comfort, and guide readers in making thoughtful, informed choices for the future.
