Is It Bad Luck to Keep Ashes in the House?
The passing of a loved one often leaves behind not just grief, but a thousand small questions. One of the most common questions we hear is:
“Is it bad luck to keep ashes in the house?”
At Bonaventure, we believe there’s no one right answer — only what feels meaningful, comforting, and respectful to you. But if you're wrestling with this decision, let’s explore the traditions, beliefs, and options that may help you find peace.
Where This Belief Comes From
Many cultures and spiritual traditions have long held beliefs about the presence of human remains in the home. Some suggest that keeping ashes indoors can disrupt the spirit’s journey, while others view it as a way to remain close to loved ones.
In Feng Shui, for example, ashes are considered “yin energy,” which can create imbalance in a living space. In some Christian and Hindu traditions, cremains are seen as something to release — often by returning them to nature.
But it’s important to know that these views are not universal. They are deeply personal and often symbolic.
📚 Learn more about different spiritual views on cremation and what the bible says about cremation
What Do Most People Do With Ashes?
Today, families choose a wide range of options:
Display at home: In decorative urns or keepsake jewelry
Divide among family members
Inter in cemeteries or columbaria
Scatter ashes in meaningful locations such as national parks, forests, or the ocean
There is no law or rule that says you must keep or scatter cremated remains — only what honors your family’s wishes and cultural comfort.
👉 Read 50 Creative Ideas for Scattering Ashes
👉 Best Places to Scatter Ashes in the United States
Are There Reasons to Avoid Keeping Ashes at Home?
While it isn’t “bad luck” in any legal or universal sense, many families choose not to keep ashes at home because:
They feel emotionally burdened
Family members disagree about storage
They worry about the urn being passed down
They want to create a lasting legacy outdoors
In these cases, scattering becomes a gentle, healing act.
📖 Is It Legal to Scatter Ashes Anywhere?
🌊 Can You Scatter Ashes in the Ocean?
A Beautiful Alternative: Scattering Ashes in Nature
Scattering ashes allows the spirit to return to the earth in a peaceful, symbolic way. Many of our clients choose this option after months or even years of indecision.
At Bonaventure, we offer unaccompanied ash scattering in breathtaking destinations across the U.S., including:
Each ceremony includes full documentation, optional photography, and is handled with reverence — without the need for travel or logistics on your part.
👉 Explore our ash scattering packages
What If I’m Not Ready Yet?
You don’t have to decide today. Many families choose to:
Store ashes temporarily in a respectful space
Make pre-arrangements for future scattering
Talk openly with loved ones about final wishes
📘 How to Talk to Family About Final Wishes
If you're unsure, download our Free Guide to Ash Scattering or contact us with your questions.
Final Thoughts
Keeping ashes at home is not inherently bad luck — but it’s okay if it doesn’t feel right to you. Your decision should bring comfort, closure, and a sense of peace.
Whenever you're ready, we’re here to help you create a beautiful farewell in the places they loved most.
📩 Contact US - We would love to help in any way we can
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