At Joseph A. Hey & Son, we understand that embalming is an aspect of funeral arrangements that some families may have questions about. As a funeral home serving Bradford for over a century, we aim to explain the embalming process in depth, its purpose, and why it may be recommended.

While it isn’t pleasant to think about, embalming is extremely important for anyone hoping to have an open-casket, and ensure their loved one is presentable during the ceremony.

What is Embalming?

Embalming is the process of chemically treating human remains to temporarily slow down decomposition and restore an appropriate physical appearance. The goal is preservation and disinfection for a time period between death and final disposition.

• The embalming procedure involves several intricate steps performed with utmost care and respect:
• Thoroughly washing and disinfecting the entire body – The deceased undergoes a full-body bathing using gentle cleansing solutions. Their hair is softly shampooed and rinsed. Disinfectants are used to wash the body, which helps neutralise microorganisms and contagious pathogens.
• Setting the facial features into natural, peaceful expressions – The embalmer carefully sets the facial features as desired by the family. Using techniques like mouth closure devices and eye caps, the face is arranged into a restful, natural look. Dentures are replaced if provided by the family.
• Performing techniques like closing the eyes and mouth – The eyes and mouth are gently secured closed using specialised techniques and adhesives. Eyelids are relaxed and mouths set into natural repose. These measures establish a serene appearance.
• Making small incisions to access blood vessels and organs – Strategic minor incisions are made to access the vascular system, where embalming fluid will be administered. Incisions are made as inconspicuous as possible, such as undergarments or in natural skin creases.
• Injecting embalming fluid into the vascular system via arteries – After blood is drained, embalming fluid is slowly injected through the arterial network using specialised equipment. This flushes the vessels and infuses the body to achieve temporary preservation.
• Treating body cavities and organs directly with embalming chemicals – Body cavities, tissues and organs are directly saturated with embalming fluid using syringe injection and techniques like placing incisions and trocar buttons to allow cavity access.
• Sealing incisions using stitches and surgical glue – Once vascular infusion is complete, incisions are sealed using surgical glue, firm pressure and sometimes sutures or staples. This renders cuts invisible and contained.
• Bathing, grooming and cosmetically restoring the body’s appearance – In the final steps, the body is gently cleaned and bathed again. Cosmetics, waxes and grooming restore a natural, lifelike appearance. The deceased is dressed in clothing provided by the family.

Modern embalming employs specialised instruments, fluids and cosmetic treatments to achieve natural, lifelike results where the deceased appears at rest.

Why is Embalming Performed?

There are several reasons why embalming may be recommended by our funeral directors:

Delay decomposition – Embalming can temporarily preserve human remains for the time needed between when death occurs and the funeral, viewing or burial service. This preserves the body while allowing more flexibility for funeral scheduling.

Improved appearance – The embalming process can restore natural skin tone and appearance so the deceased looks peaceful and recognisable. This can bring immense comfort to the grieving family.

Hygienic handling – Embalming sanitises the remains and neutralises contagious pathogens. This protects funeral home staff, mourners and the public from potential communicable diseases.

Conform with cultural customs – Many cultural and religious traditions prescribe embalming as an expected part of conventional funeral rites. Embalming may assist with adhering to these customary practices.

Meet legal requirements – Some jurisdictions require embalming under certain circumstances, such as if the death was caused by a known contagious disease. Your funeral director will advise you on any mandatory regulations.

Enable transport – Transporting human remains across state lines or internationally often legally requires prior embalming. This is for public health reasons.

Repatriation – If remains need to be repatriated back home after death overseas, embalming is usually compulsory to meet international transit regulations.

Long-term disposition – In rare cases where remains may need longer-term storage before burial, embalming preserves the deceased for extended time frames.

Explaining the Embalming Process Step-by-Step

Our licensed, trained embalmers perform the embalming procedure meticulously in a dedicated facility with the utmost dignity and care. They adhere to strict industry regulations and health standards.

The key stages include:

Cleaning and Disinfecting – The deceased undergoes a thorough full-body washing, with their hair gently shampooed. Disinfectants cleanse the body and reduce microorganisms and pathogens.

Positioning Features – Facial features are carefully set into natural, peaceful expressions. The eyes and mouth are gently closed. Desired personal effects like glasses are placed.

Accessing Vascular System – Small incisions are made at strategic points to access blood vessels and organs. For minimal visibility, incisions are made at groyne, armpit or neck regions.

Injecting Fluid – Embalming fluid is slowly injected through the vascular system of arteries using specialised equipment. This flushes the body of blood and replaces it with preservatives.

Treating Cavities – Body cavities, tissues and organs are directly treated with embalming fluid using syringe injections and techniques like trocar buttons.

Sealing Incisions – Surgical glue and sutures carefully seal incisions so they are not visible.

Restoration – Final restoration involves bathing, grooming, cosmetics and carefully dressing the deceased in clothing provided by the family.

Documentation – Our embalmers thoroughly document each case and legally retain records of the fluids and techniques utilised.

Modern embalming fluids contain disinfectants, buffers, anticoagulants, preservatives, perfumes and dyes that achieve natural results and prevent decay.

For Professional Funeral Directors in Bradford, Call Joseph A. Hey & Son Funeral Directors

Here at Joseph A. Hey & Son funeral directors in Bradford, we have extensive experience when it comes to organising and directing funerals of all kinds.Whether you’re looking for a contemporary or traditional style funeral in Bradford and the surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to contact our supportive team today.

During this difficult time, having a team of funeral directors who understand what you’re going through, in addition to a detailed knowledge of the local area, is invaluable. We are always here to answer any questions you may have, so don’t hesitate to get in touch today. You can reach our supportive team directly by calling 0800 783 2225, or through our simple online contact form.