Shrouds Versus Body Bags: Understanding the Difference

The site you are reading is called Shrouds – yet most of what professionals buy are body bags. The two are related but not interchangeable.

The shroud

A shroud is a cloth – traditionally cotton, linen or another natural fabric – in which the body is wrapped for burial. Shrouding is central to many religious and cultural traditions. Shrouds are about dignity, ritual and covering. They are not designed to contain fluids or to bear load.

The body bag

A body bag is a sealable enclosure, usually plastic, designed for containment, handling, transport and identification. It is typically used between death and preparation for the funeral, not for burial itself.

How they work together

A common sequence is: body bag for removal and storage → washing and preparation by the family, religious community or funeral home → shroud or burial clothing → coffin or burial. Some traditions bury in the shroud alone, without a coffin.

Plastic and burial

Many families and faith communities prefer that no plastic is buried with the deceased. Natural-burial programmes generally prohibit it. Where a body bag is used for transport, it is usually removed during preparation – unless health regulations require containment (for example remains of people who died from certain communicable diseases under GN R.363).

Burial transfer bags

Funeral homes also use lighter, discreet transfer bags and covers – often in softer colours – for moving remains in view of families. These sit between a shroud and a heavy-duty body bag.

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Educational resource only. This article does not replace facility protocols, infection-prevention policies, official forensic procedures, manufacturer instructions or legal advice. Always verify product suitability against the applicable protocol and supplier test evidence. Last reviewed: October 2026.