Embalming Myths Debunked 

When families visit our funeral home to make arrangements for their loved ones, one topic that often raises questions- and sometimes eyebrows- is embalming. The practice of embalming, despite being a routine aspect of funeral care, is surrounded by myths and misconceptions that can make it an uncomfortable discussion for some people. As a funeral director in the UK, we believe it’s important to address these misunderstandings and provide clear, honest information to help our families make informed decisions.  

Here are some of the most common myths about embalming, along with the facts: 

Myth 1: Embalming is legally required in the UK  

One of the most pervasive myths is that embalming is a legal requirement. In truth, embalming is not mandatory in the UK. It’s entirely optional and is usually offered as a service to help preserve the body for a short period, particularly if there will be an open casket viewing or if the funeral is delayed. However, if the body is to be transported internationally (repatriation), embalming may be required depending on the destination country’s regulations. For families who choose not to embalm, be assured that there are other respectful ways to care for your loved one.  

Myth 2: Embalming stops decomposition permanently  

Embalming is not a way to stop the natural process of decomposition permanently. Instead, it temporarily slows down the process. The embalming solution, which contains chemicals such as formaldehyde, sanitises and preserves the body for a limited time. This can be useful for families who want to hold a viewing or have loved ones that are travelling to attend the funeral. However, over time, the body will still return to its natural state, even when embalmed.  

Myth 3: Embalming is required for a natural look 

While embalming can help restore a natural appearance, it is not the only option for ensuring a dignified presentation of the deceased. Gentle preparation and cosmetic care can often achieve a peaceful and respectful appearance without the need for embalming. If you prefer a natural burial or want to avoid chemical processes, speak to a member of the Levertons team about your wishes. There are many ways to honour your loved one’s appearance without embalming.  

Myth 4: Embalming is the same as preservation used in Ancient Egypt 

Many people associate embalming with the elaborate mummification practices of ancient Egyptians. Modern embalming, however, is far less complex and is performed for three reasons: Preservation, Sanitisation and Presentation. It is performed to be a benefit to the Living not as would initially be thought of to the Deceased. It involves the injection of an individually bespoke mixture of chemicals including formaldehyde for the deceased into the main arteries; the blood and various other fluids are then removed. The practice delays decomposition and depending on the bespoke mixture injected can retard decomposition for many months if not longer. While the practice can delay decomposition, it is not comparable to the centuries-long preservation achieved by mummification. 

Myth 5: Embalming is always safe for the environment 

The embalming process uses chemicals that can pose environmental risks if they enter the soil or water supply, particularly in areas without strict environmental safeguards. For families interested in eco-friendly options, natural or green burials are a fantastic alternative. These avoid embalming and often use biodegradable materials for coffins and shrouds. As funeral professionals, we’re happy to support families in exploring sustainable practices that align with their values.  

Myth 6: Refrigeration stops any further degradation of a body following death 

This unfortunately is not true although it does slow down the process. Families should not feel rushed into making a decision regarding embalming when they first meet with their funeral director. However, it is important to get their loved one into the care of their funeral director as soon as possible, we can then assess and care for their loved one in a controlled refrigerated environment. The successful outcome of embalming is increased by getting their loved one ideally embalmed within the first 3 weeks following death, each week following that reduces a successful outcome but it is possible to embalm a body many weeks following death. 

Conclusion: A balanced decision  

Ultimately, embalming is a deeply personal choice, and there is no right or wrong answer to whether to use it or not. Some families find great comfort in having their loved one embalmed, especially if it allows for a peaceful viewing or helps coordinate the timing of the funeral. Others prefer to forgo embalming for environmental or personal reasons. As funeral directors, our role is not to push one option over another but to support you with the information you need to make a choice that feels meaningful and respectful. 

We would like to ensure all our families that embalming here at Levertons is performed in a totally respectful manner by our qualified in-house Embalmer and we would be happy to address any concerns you may have.  

If you are looking to find out more about how we approach the embalming process at Levertons or want to discuss any other aspects of a funeral plan, then please get in touch. Our family have been funeral directors since 1789 for 8 generations and seek to provide comfort, support and professional guidance to help people navigate organising a funeral. You can contact us at any of our 5 branches or by emailing info@levertons.co.uk

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A huge "Thank You" to Carmel and her Team for undertaking the arrangements of the funeral for my husband Charles W Ramsay. Carmel was professional, kind, thoughtful and cared for us as though she was a member of our family . Together with her supportive team, the service was exceptional. Levertons live on.

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Arranging a funeral is always going to be an unpleasant burden at a difficult time, but the experience with Leverton's Muswell Hill office was hugely helpful and supportive. I cannot recommend them more highly on every aspect of the process. They listen carefully, make excellent and well-timed suggestions and support the planning process with flexibility and sensitivity. At the funeral service itself they were discreet and thoroughly professional throughout. To the extent that this would ever be a positive experience, I do not believe that any firm could have done a better job, and I would not hesitate to recommend them as an absolutely top class service

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I recently had the experience of working with Deborah at Leverton & Sons during a profoundly difficult time, and I cannot express enough gratitude for the excellent support and care Deborah and team provided. Deborah demonstrated kindness and thoughtfulness that immediately put us at ease, she approached every aspect with an understanding that felt both personal and compassionate. Deborah and her team were incredibly efficient throughout the entire process, explaining all the options, working on the schedule and flow, handling intricate details whilst allowing us the space to grieve. I wholeheartedly recommend Deborah at Leverton & Sons to anyone seeking compassionate and skilled assistance and kindness. Thank you Deborah.

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Very considerate, thorough and personal. They took such care, that we felt like we were there only client and yet they are a busy and popular funeral directors. Every detail was sensitively handled and made easy. Whole heartedly reccomend Leverton & Sons. Lorna what a kind, patient and knowledgeable super star.

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I was extremely pleased with the advice, help and services received from Leverton & Sons at Kentish Town Road. Lorna Walkden, Funeral Director was very kind and made everything very clear and straightforward. The staff on the day of the funeral were very respectful and everything went according to plan. I would thoroughly recommend Leverton's.

Review by Linda R left on 08 Apr 2025

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Absolutely wonderful experience with a difficult and sensitive matter. Very professional and accommodating. Would definitely recommend.

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