How long will a biodegradable urn float?

Most biodegradable urns float for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before gently sinking. The design allows families to take a breath, say a few words, or scatter petals during this pause.

Will the urn sink too quickly?

No. Pachamama urns are balanced to float briefly and then sink slowly and gracefully. This gives time for a short farewell before the urn returns to the water.

Are biodegradable urns safe for wildlife?

Absolutely. Pachamama urns are made only of non-toxic, biodegradable materials, ensuring safety for aquatic and terrestrial wildlife.

How Long Do Biodegradable Urns Float?

Q: Does the urn dissolve completely?

Yes. Both the urn and its water-soluble bag are designed to dissolve fully, often within a week, leaving no trace in the environment.

Q: Can I add flowers or petals?

Yes, families often scatter natural petals as a blessing. Only biodegradable flowers or petals should be used. Plastics, ribbons, or wire are not allowed.

When families ask us “How long will the urn float?” we hear the tenderness behind the question. The answer is: just long enough for a breath, a blessing, and a goodbye. Pachamama urns are designed to float for a short time—between 30 seconds and 2 minutes—before gently sinking and dissolving into the water. This quiet pause allows loved ones to gather, release petals, say a name, or share a memory while watching the urn drift. Every urn, ceremony, and water condition is unique, but the heart of the design is always the same: a moment of stillness before a return to nature.

How the Floating Works

Pachamama urns are handcrafted from natural, biodegradable fibers.
Inside is a water-soluble bag holding the ashes.
When placed on the surface, air pockets allow the urn to float briefly.
As water fills in, the urn gently sinks and begins its dissolution.

What Families Experience

Time to breathe: Most urns float for 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
A gentle descent: The urn sinks slowly, without sudden motion.
Integration with water: The urn and bag dissolve fully within a week.
Safe for all waters: No plastics, metals, or toxins—only earth-friendly materials.

A Note on Conditions

The exact float time can vary depending on:

Urn size (Small, Medium, Large).
Water conditions (calm lake vs. open ocean).
Ceremony details (added petals, gentle waves).

No matter the setting, every Pachamama urn is designed to allow a dignified pause before its return to the elements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will my urn float?
Between 30 seconds and 2 minutes, long enough for a few words or gestures.

Will the urn sink too fast?
No. Each urn is balanced to float briefly, then sink gently.

Does the urn dissolve completely?
Yes. Urn and bag dissolve naturally, often within a week, leaving no trace.

Can I add flowers or petals?
Yes, but only natural biodegradable petals. Avoid plastics or ribbons.

Is it safe for wildlife?
Absolutely. Our urns are made only of non-toxic, biodegradable materials.

What most families remember is not the number of seconds, but the stillness. Watching the urn float, then sink, offers a quiet symbol of release: a moment where love, memory, and water come together.

👉 Explore our Biodegradable Urns Collection – each includes a water-soluble bag, biodegradability certificate, and is handcrafted for a gentle farewell.