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Gentle Preparation
A Modern Alternative to Traditional Cremation
A flame-free way to return to nature—cleaner for the planet, gentler for the people who choose it.
How It Works
Water cremation uses water, natural alkaline, and gentle heat to return the body to its natural elements—without flame, smoke, or pollution. The result is a quiet, respectful process that feels fundamentally different from traditional cremation.
The body is respectfully placed in a stainless steel vessel containing water and an alkaline solution. The water is gently warmed, and the vessel sealed to maintain a peaceful, controlled environment.
This begins the process with care, creating the conditions for a clean, natural return to nature.
The solution contains a small amount of potassium hydroxide and ethyl alcohol in about 95% water.
The warm, circulating water gently returns the body to its elements—much like natural decomposition, but in a clean, modern setting. The process takes about three hours.
There’s no flame, smoke, or pollution. What remains is bone material, processed into a clean, light powder—similar in appearance to ashes.
The solution contains a small amount of potassium hydroxide and ethyl alcohol in about 95% water.
Just like with traditional cremation, the remains are returned to the family, typically placed in an urn of their choice.
Some families choose to scatter them, keep them in a memorial space, share a portion with relatives, or even turn them into keepsake jewelry or art. The choice is deeply personal, and entirely up to you.
Why Families Are Choosing Water Cremation
Water cremation is becoming the preferred choice for those who want a farewell that reflects how they lived—gently, intentionally, and in harmony with the world around them.
Common Questions
Will we still receive ashes?
Yes. Just like with traditional cremation, the remains—similar in appearance to ashes—are returned to your family.
Can I choose this at any funeral home?
Any funeral home can work with AquaCare to provide water cremation services. Many funeral homes already partner with us. If yours doesn’t yet, we’re happy to coordinate with them and provide the same seamless, behind-the-scenes care.
Is it safe and legal?
Yes. Water cremation is a safe, regulated process approved for use in many states and growing in adoption across the country.
Is it better for the environment?
Yes. It uses significantly less energy than traditional cremation, creates no airborne emissions, and doesn’t require the use of flame or fossil fuels.
Does water cremation go by other names?
Yes. Water cremation is also known as alkaline hydrolysis, aquamation, flameless cremation, or bio-cremation, depending on the provider or state. These all refer to the same clean, flame-free process.
Is water cremation a fad?
No. Water cremation has been used for years by respected institutions like medical schools and universities. Its growing adoption by funeral homes is driven by changing values, not trends.
How do I choose water cremation?
If you’re working with a funeral director, just ask for AquaCare by name. Many funeral homes already work with us. If yours doesn’t yet, we’re happy to connect or support the process. You can also download our guide to help with that conversation.
Still Deciding Between Burial, Flame Cremation, and Water Cremation? Compare your options here.
Gentle Guidance for a Difficult Decision
Download our free guide to help your ask the right questions, talk with your funeral director, and choose with confidence.
Download the Guide