Viewing Without Embalming: A Guide to Natural Viewings and Timelines

For decades, the standard American funeral involved chemical preservation as an unquestioned step in the grieving process. However, as more families seek eco-friendly and personalized ways to say goodbye, viewing without embalming—often referred to as a "natural viewing"—has moved from the fringes of the funeral industry into the mainstream.

Choosing a natural viewing allows families to honor their loved ones without the use of harsh formaldehyde-based chemicals. Whether motivated by environmental concerns, religious beliefs, or a desire for a more "honest" encounter with death, understanding the logistics, timelines, and legalities of a no embalming viewing is essential for making an informed decision.

Understanding the Legal Reality of Embalming

One of the most persistent myths in the funeral industry is that embalming is a legal requirement. In reality, there is no federal law in the United States that mandates embalming for every deceased person.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) "Funeral Rule" specifically requires funeral homes to inform families in writing that embalming is not required by law except in certain special cases. Despite this, some states have "trigger" laws that may require preservation under specific circumstances.

State-Specific "Trigger" Laws

While the FTC protects your right to choose, individual states have their own regulations regarding how long a body can remain at room temperature before preservation or refrigeration is required.

• Pennsylvania: Requires embalming, refrigeration, or a sealed casket if the body is not buried or cremated within 24 hours. If you wish to have a public viewing after that 24-hour mark, state law generally requires embalming.
• Other States: Many states mandate that if a body is to be transported across state lines via common carrier (like an airline), it must be embalmed or placed in a zig-lined, hermetically sealed container.

The Timeline of a Natural Viewing

When you opt for a viewing without chemicals, time becomes the most critical factor. The goal of a natural viewing is to allow for a visitation period while the body remains in a peaceful, recognizable state.

Preservation Windows

The condition of the deceased depends heavily on the environment and the cooling methods used.

The Visual Experience: What to Expect

In a traditional embalmed viewing, "restorative art" is used. Morticians use fillers and heavy cosmetics to create a "sleeping" appearance. In a natural viewing, the deceased will look different. Experts often describe this look as "obviously dead" but peaceful. Without chemicals to plump the tissues, features may look slightly more sunken, and the skin will take on its natural, pale tone.

Best Practices for a Successful Natural Viewing

Planning a viewing without embalming requires a shift in focus from chemical preservation to temperature management and "hygienic preparation."

1. Prioritize Cooling

Temperature is the most effective way to slow natural decomposition. If the viewing is held at a funeral home, ensure they have high-quality refrigeration units. If you are holding a private family viewing at home, you can use:

• Dry Ice: Wrapped in cloth and placed near the torso and lower back.
• Techni-Ice or Gel Packs: Effective for shorter periods.
• Specialized Cooling Blankets: Products like GelTech are designed specifically for home vigils.

2. Hygienic Preparation

Instead of invasive embalming, the body undergoes a "natural wash." This involves:

• Bathing the body with gentle, non-toxic soaps.
• Anointing the skin with essential oils like lavender, frankincense, or peppermint.
• Closing the eyes and mouth using natural methods (such as herbal eye pillows or specific positioning) rather than plastic "eye caps" or wire sutures.

3. Choose the Right Venue

Not all funeral homes are prepared for natural viewings. Some corporate-owned facilities may have internal policies that forbid public viewings of unembalmed remains to avoid perceived liability.

Real-World Examples of Natural Viewings

To better understand how this works in practice, consider these three common scenarios:

Example 1: The Traditional Religious Vigil

In many Jewish and Muslim traditions, embalming is forbidden. The viewing and washing (Tahara or Ghusl) take place shortly after death, and the burial occurs within 24 to 48 hours. This is the oldest form of "natural viewing" and demonstrates that chemicals are not necessary for a dignified farewell.

Example 2: The Three-Day Home Wake

A family in Minnesota chose to keep their father at home for three days before a green burial. They used a cooling blanket and kept the room at 60°F. Relatives visited throughout the weekend, and the natural scent of lavender oil and beeswax candles provided a peaceful atmosphere. Because the timeline was under 72 hours, no odor was present.

Example 3: The Hybrid Viewing

A family wanted a traditional church service but preferred no chemicals. The funeral home kept the body refrigerated until one hour before the service. The viewing lasted four hours at the church, and the body was then taken directly to the crematory. This "hybrid" approach balanced the family's desire for a public service with their environmental values.

Recent Trends: The Rise of "Regeneration" (2025-2026)

The demand for natural viewings is being driven by new technologies and legislation that focus on returning the body to the earth as naturally as possible.

• Human Composting (Natural Organic Reduction): As of 2025, over 13 states, including Georgia and Minnesota, have legalized human composting. Because this process relies on natural microbes, embalming chemicals are strictly prohibited. This has led to a surge in natural viewings before the "laying in" ceremony.
• Mushroom Coffins: High-tech biodegradable options like the "Infinity Burial Suit" use fungal spores to help the body decompose safely. Families often find that viewing a loved one in a "living" garment changes the narrative from one of loss to one of regeneration.
• Virtual Home Vigils: Improved streaming technology now allows families to hold private, natural home vigils while allowing distant relatives to "view" the ceremony virtually, reducing the need for the body to be preserved for long travel periods.

For more information on the visual aspects of these services, see our Complete Guide to Viewing the Body.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When opting for a viewing without embalming, avoiding these common pitfalls can prevent unnecessary stress:

1. Falling for the "Public Health" Myth: Some may claim that embalming is necessary to prevent disease. This is false. The CDC has stated that embalming provides no public health benefit, as most pathogens do not survive long after death.
2. Mistaking Environment for Decomposition: If you notice a scent during a viewing, it is often the floral arrangements or organic materials in the room rather than the body itself. Ensure the room is well-ventilated.
3. Assuming All Facilities Are Equal: If a funeral director tells you it is "illegal" to view without embalming, they may be confusing company policy with state law. Always verify their claims or consult a different provider.
4. Wait Too Long to Decide: Because the natural window is shorter, you should decide on your preservation method as soon as possible to ensure proper cooling begins immediately.

Conclusion

Choosing a viewing without embalming is a deeply personal decision that prioritizes natural processes and environmental stewardship. By understanding the 72-hour window of opportunity and utilizing modern cooling techniques, families can hold a beautiful, dignified service that honors their loved one's legacy without the use of harsh chemicals.

Whether you are planning a what to expect at a viewing for a large group or a small, private gathering, the key is preparation and working with a flexible, knowledgeable funeral provider.