Although cremation is still considered taboo in many cultures and religions, it has become increasingly favored over traditional funerals in recent years.
Much of the fear surrounding cremation, however, stems from widespread misconceptions — fear that arises simply from not knowing what the process involves.
Lauren, a former funeral home worker who goes by @lovee.miss.lauren on TikTok, decided to guide her 2.5 million followers through the cremation process and address some of the most common myths.
According to Lauren, the question she hears most often is:
“How can I be certain that the ashes I receive truly belong to my loved one?”
She explains that when the body is brought to the crematory, it is assigned a metal plate engraved with a unique ID number. This identification tag stays with the body throughout the entire cremation process. Afterward, the ashes are collected in a bag labeled with the same ID, and a cremation certificate is issued, which includes the deceased’s name and registration number.
Some of the questions she receives may seem unusual, but they stem from real concerns.
For example, someone once asked whether a tampon is removed from the body if a woman dies while on her period.
Lauren clarifies that in most cases, an autopsy is performed prior to cremation, and items like tampons are removed — especially if embalming is required. These procedures are always carried out with the family’s consent and follow strict guidelines that ensure respect for the body.
Louise Singer, manager of Bramcote Bereavement Services in the UK, has also spoken openly about the cremation process. She notes that before the procedure begins, crematory staff inspect the coffin for items that cannot be safely cremated — such as metal objects or certain tributes — which may cause complications.
It’s especially important to make sure the deceased does not have a pacemaker, as it can explode under high heat and potentially lift a 20-ton, seven-inch-thick cremation chamber into the air.
The furnace typically reaches temperatures between 800 and 1,000 degrees Celsius, and the cremation takes around 90 minutes to complete. Staff monitor the process through a small viewing hole, ensuring everything proceeds safely and efficiently.
If you have further questions about cremation, it’s best to speak with a licensed funeral director.
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