Fire Cremation and Water Cremation: Understanding the Differences and What Makes Each a Desired Choice

When planning a final farewell, families today have more choices than ever before. At Mississippi Valley Cremation & Direct Burial, we believe in providing clarity, compassion, and simple options that honor both your loved one’s wishes and your family’s values. Among the most meaningful choices families make is choosing between traditional fire cremation and modern water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis.

Both are respectful, dignified ways to return a loved one to nature, yet they differ in their processes, environmental impacts, and personal preferences. Understanding these differences can help you choose the option that feels right for your family.

What Is Fire Cremation?

Fire cremation, also known as flame-based cremation, has been a trusted and widely used method for decades. During this process, the body is gently placed in a cremation chamber, where it’s exposed to heat and flame, transforming it into soft ashes. Those ashes, often called “cremated remains,” are then returned to the family in an urn or another chosen vessel.

Families often select fire cremation for its simplicity and familiarity. It allows for flexible memorialization options, ashes can be kept at home, scattered in a meaningful location, or interred in a cemetery or columbarium. It’s a thoughtful way to honor a loved one without the added pressures of traditional funeral arrangements.

What Is Water Cremation (Alkaline Hydrolysis)?

Water cremation, or alkaline hydrolysis, is an environmentally conscious alternative that uses a gentle combination of warm water, pressure, and natural minerals to break down the body over several hours. Instead of flame, this process mimics the way the body naturally returns to the earth, just much more efficiently.

At the end of the process, families receive a type of remains similar to those from fire cremation, but the method uses significantly less energy and produces no direct emissions. Many people view water cremation as a gentler, eco-friendly option that shows care for both their loved one and the planet.

Why Families Choose Fire Cremation

For many in the Mississippi River Valley region, fire cremation remains a preferred choice because of its familiarity, availability, and tradition. It offers flexibility in how families choose to gather, remember, and celebrate a loved one’s life, whether through a private memorial or a simple scattering ceremony.

Some families also appreciate that fire cremation can be completed quickly, allowing them to plan a meaningful tribute in their own time and way.

Why Families Choose Water Cremation

Families seeking an eco-conscious and modern option often turn to water cremation. It aligns with the values of sustainability and gentleness, using only one-eighth of the energy of fire cremation while avoiding emissions entirely.

The process is sometimes described as more natural, representing a quiet return to the earth’s elements, water instead of flame. For many, it brings peace of mind knowing their loved one’s farewell also honors the environment.

Choosing What Feels Right for You

At Mississippi Valley Cremation & Direct Burial, we understand that every family’s needs are different. Our role is to provide guidance, transparency, and support as you make these deeply personal decisions. Whether your family chooses fire cremation or water cremation, our focus remains the same: offering a simpler way to say goodbye with dignity, compassion, and care.

If you’re exploring cremation services in the Quad Cities, Illinois, and Iowa area, we invite you to contact us to learn more about your options. Our caring team is here to help you make an informed, comfortable decision that reflects your loved one’s wishes and values.

Frequently Asked Questions



Is water cremation legal in my state?
Water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis, is legal in a growing number of U.S. states, including several in the Midwest. Laws continue to evolve as more families seek sustainable end-of-life options. Our team can help confirm whether this option is available in your area.

Does water cremation cost more than fire cremation?
In most cases, the cost of water cremation is comparable to fire cremation. Pricing may vary depending on location, service inclusions, and local regulations. We believe in full transparency and can walk you through each option to help you choose what fits best for your family.

Are the ashes from water cremation different from fire cremation?
The ashes from water cremation are very similar to those from traditional cremation, though they may appear slightly lighter in color and finer in texture. Families receive the remains in the same way, ready for scattering, memorial keepsakes, or placement in an urn.

Can I have a memorial service after either cremation?
Absolutely. Both cremation options allow families the freedom to hold a service at any time and in any way that feels meaningful, whether it’s a traditional ceremony, a private gathering, or a simple moment of reflection.