Choosing the Right Table for Your Funeral Home
Let's talk about what's often the unsung hero of your funeral home—the table. A funeral home table isn't just a piece of equipment; it's the foundation of the compassionate care you provide families during their most difficult moments.
At its core, a funeral home table is specialized equipment designed for the respectful preparation, embalming, dressing, and presentation of the deceased. Each type serves a unique purpose in your day-to-day operations, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in your workflow and staff wellbeing.
Here's a quick reference to help you understand your options:
| Type of Table | Primary Use | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Embalming Table | Body preparation | Stainless steel, drainage system, adjustable height | $2,885-$5,194 |
| Dressing Table | Body dressing and cosmetics | Flat surface, often foldable, portable | $659-$1,500 |
| Autopsy Table | Medical examination | Perforated surface, deep troughs, drainage | $5,000-$19,995 |
| Cooling Table | Body preservation | Refrigeration system, display-ready | $3,000-$6,000 |
| Bariatric Table | Oversized cases | Reinforced frame, 1,000+ lb capacity | $7,000+ |
I've spent years helping funeral directors find their perfect preparation room setup, and I've learned that selecting the right funeral home table is a bit like choosing the right vehicle—it needs to be reliable, suit your specific needs, and ideally, make your job easier rather than harder.
Your choice will ultimately depend on several factors unique to your funeral home. A small family-run business might prioritize space-saving options like folding tables, while a large facility handling diverse cases might need several specialized tables for different functions.
When comparing your options, focus on these five essential factors:
Material quality matters tremendously—304 stainless steel has become the industry standard for good reason. It withstands harsh chemicals, resists corrosion, and maintains its integrity through years of daily use.
Weight capacity should never be an afterthought. Standard models typically support 600-1,000 pounds, but with bariatric cases increasing, many funeral homes are investing in at least one higher-capacity option.
Adjustability features, particularly a height range of 30"-38", can dramatically reduce back strain for your staff. Think about who will be using the table—if you have team members of varying heights, adjustability becomes even more crucial.
Drainage systems with central drains and 3" troughs might not be the most glamorous feature to consider, but proper fluid management is essential for sanitation, compliance, and efficiency during the preparation process.
Mobility options with 6"-8" locking swivel wheels allow you to reconfigure your space as needed and make cleaning underneath and around your equipment much more manageable.
Here at American Mortuary Coolers, we've helped hundreds of funeral directors find funeral home table solutions that strike the perfect balance between durability and affordability. We've seen how the right equipment not only improves operational efficiency but also reduces the physical toll on your hardworking staff.
What Is a Funeral Home Table?
A funeral home table is the backbone of any properly equipped preparation room. These aren't your everyday tables – they're specialized workstations designed specifically for the dignified care of the deceased. Think of them as the foundation where funeral professionals perform their most essential and sacred duties.
Unlike standard tables you'd find elsewhere, a funeral home table is built to handle the unique challenges of mortuary work. They support substantial weight, provide proper drainage for fluids, maintain strict sanitary conditions, and help create an efficient workflow in the preparation room.
"I couldn't do my job properly without a reliable funeral home table," one of our Tennessee funeral directors told me recently. "It's where the technical side of our profession meets our commitment to families – the place where we transform grief into healing through careful preparation."
Core Functions of a Funeral Home Table
The best funeral home tables are versatile workhorses that serve multiple critical functions in your facility:
When it comes to embalming, these tables feature sophisticated drainage systems, height adjustments for staff comfort, and surfaces that resist chemical damage – all essential for proper preservation work.
For dressing the deceased, you need a stable, clean surface where clothing can be applied and final cosmetic touches made. Many of our portable models include mobility features so you can easily move between preparation and viewing areas.
Some facilities require specialized autopsy capabilities, where deeper troughs, improved drainage, and more robust construction become necessary for post-mortem examinations.
Modern funeral home tables often serve display functions too, especially our cooling models that present the deceased beautifully during viewings when a casket isn't being used.
And don't forget transport – today's tables frequently include quality casters and locking mechanisms to safely move the deceased throughout your facility without strain or risk.
A funeral director from Chicago who upgraded their preparation room told us, "Having the right table for each function has been a game-changer. My staff experiences less physical strain, and we've become noticeably more efficient since investing in purpose-specific tables."
Why the Term "Funeral Home Table" Matters in SEO and Purchasing
When you're searching online for mortuary equipment, the terminology you use makes all the difference. "Funeral home table" works as a helpful umbrella term covering the wide variety of specialized tables used in mortuary settings.
For those new to the profession or consumers researching funeral services, this broad term offers an entry point into the sometimes complex world of mortuary equipment. Not everyone knows to search for specific technical terms like "hydraulic embalming table" or "refrigerated display table" right away.
From a purchasing perspective, if you're searching for a "funeral home table," you're likely in the early stages of research and need straightforward, educational content to guide your decision. On the other hand, if you're searching for something specific like a "stainless steel embalming table with hydraulic lift," you're probably further along in your decision-making journey.
Here at American Mortuary Coolers, we've designed our resources to help both newcomers and experienced professionals find exactly what they need. Whether you start with broad terms or specific product searches, we're here to help you steer the options and find the perfect funeral home table for your specific needs.
Exploring the Main Types of Funeral Home Tables
When you're setting up a preparation room, understanding the different types of funeral home tables is like knowing the difference between kitchen knives—each has its special purpose. Let me walk you through the main options you'll encounter as you outfit your facility.
Embalming Tables
The embalming table is truly the heart of any prep room. Think of it as the chef's cutting board—everything happens here.
Most quality embalming tables feature 14-gauge 304 stainless steel construction that stands up to years of chemical exposure. They typically measure around 35" × 85" with generous 3" troughs leading to 6" drain stems for efficient fluid management. Whether you choose a perforated or solid top depends on your personal preparation style, but both serve well when properly designed.
"I invested in a hydraulic lift table five years ago," shares Tom, a funeral director from our Memphis network. "My back thanks me every single day. The ability to adjust from 30 to 38 inches might not sound like much, but it makes all the difference during a long embalming."
Dressing Tables
After embalming comes the art of presentation, and that's where dressing tables shine. These lighter-duty surfaces give you a clean, flat workspace for dressing and cosmetic application.
Most dressing tables skip the drainage systems and focus instead on mobility and convenience. They're notably lighter—usually around 80-100 pounds—making them easy to move between rooms. Many funeral directors tell us they appreciate the folding options that tuck away when not needed, especially in smaller facilities.
The Ferno Model 34 represents a sweet spot of affordability (around $659) and functionality that's hard to beat for smaller operations or those providing home services.
Autopsy Tables
For funeral homes that handle medical examiner cases or offer autopsy services, specialized tables become necessary. These heavy-duty funeral home tables feature deeper troughs and more robust drainage systems designed specifically for forensic work.
The price jump is significant—expect to invest between $5,000 and $20,000—but these tables include specialized features like integrated scales, improved chemical resistance, and attachment points for specialized lighting. For facilities regularly handling these cases, the investment pays for itself in efficiency and compliance.
Refrigerated Cooling Tables
In warmer climates or for extended viewing periods, refrigerated tables offer both preservation and presentation capabilities.
"When we serve our Orthodox Jewish families, our refrigerated table becomes essential," explains Sarah from our Florida location. "Their traditions often require multi-day viewing periods, and our cooling table maintains perfect preservation while still looking dignified for family visitation."
These specialized funeral home tables maintain temperatures between 35°F-45°F through discreet cooling systems. Modern versions have come a long way from their ice-filled ancestors, though vintage models still hold a certain charm for collectors.
In some jurisdictions, regulations actually mandate refrigerated options for each burial chamber, making them less of a luxury and more of a necessity.
Bariatric Tables
As our population changes, so must our equipment. Bariatric-specific funeral home tables have become increasingly important in modern funeral service.
These reinforced tables typically support 1,000+ pounds and feature wider surfaces—usually 40 inches or more—to ensure dignity and safety for larger individuals. The frames and support structures are significantly reinforced, and heavy-duty casters include robust braking systems for security during procedures.
"Investing in proper bariatric equipment isn't just about accommodation," notes our Midwest equipment specialist. "It's about preventing staff injuries and ensuring every family receives the same level of dignified care, regardless of size."
Combination Tables
For smaller facilities watching their budget and space, combination tables offer clever versatility. These adaptable surfaces can transform to serve multiple functions through modular components or convertible designs.
The Ferno Model 103 Combination Operating Table exemplifies this approach with independently adjustable sections that adapt to various preparation tasks. While specialized tables excel at their specific functions, a well-designed combination table can serve as an excellent starting point for newer or smaller operations.
Embalming Tables vs. Standard Medical Tables
I'm often asked, "Can't I just use a medical table?" The answer is a clear no—despite superficial similarities, funeral home tables differ fundamentally from medical equipment.
The drainage systems alone represent a major difference. Embalming tables incorporate specialized troughs and central drains designed specifically for embalming fluid management—features entirely absent in medical tables.
Material composition also differs significantly. While both might use stainless steel, preparation tables typically use thicker 14-gauge 304 stainless specifically rated for chemical exposure and frequent sanitization.
Even the height adjustment ranges differ, with embalming tables optimized for standing procedures (30"-38") versus medical tables designed for seated examinations. The convex surface design directing fluids toward drainage points is another specialized feature you won't find in standard medical equipment.
"I tried using a medical table when I first started," confides a New York funeral director in our network. "I learned very quickly that proper embalming tables aren't just a luxury—they're designed specifically for our unique workflow and sanitation requirements."
Folding Dressing Tables—Portable Prep Solutions
For funeral homes offering home services or managing multiple locations, folding dressing tables provide remarkable flexibility. These clever designs collapse to just 6-8 inches thick for storage yet provide stable 30" × 80" work surfaces when deployed.
Their lightweight construction (typically under 100 pounds) makes them genuinely portable, while quick tool-free setup allows for professional service anywhere. Starting around $659, they represent one of the most versatile investments smaller operations can make.
"Our rural location serves several small communities," shares a director from our Southeast region. "The folding table lets us provide the same care in a family's home that we would in our main facility. For families who can't come to us, this makes all the difference."
Refrigerated & Cooling Tables for Viewings
The refrigerated viewing table occupies a special place in funeral service, blending preservation technology with presentation-quality design. These sophisticated funeral home tables maintain perfect temperatures while offering dignified viewing experiences.
Vintage models have their own charm—simple platforms with hollow undersides where ice could be placed to cool from below. Modern versions replace ice with electric cooling systems while maintaining the same principle.
A Pittsburgh funeral director recently told me, "Our refrigerated viewing table has allowed us to accommodate extended viewing periods for Orthodox Jewish families where burial must be delayed until relatives arrive from overseas. It's expanded who we can serve with dignity."
For those interested in exploring specific options in more depth, we recommend checking out The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Embalming Tables or What is an Embalming Table? A Deep Dive Into Its Purpose and Use for more detailed information before making your selection.
For a broader industry perspective on available funeral tables, you might also find the I-NOVO Awards funeral tables showcase helpful, which features 44 products from 19 different companies in the industry.
Key Features, Materials, and Specifications to Compare
When you're in the market for a funeral home table, it's a bit like shopping for a car—there are certain specifications that really matter for the long haul. Let me walk you through what to look for, based on what I've learned helping hundreds of funeral directors find their perfect match.
Materials and Construction
The gold standard in our industry is 14-gauge 304 stainless steel, and for good reason. I remember visiting a funeral home in Memphis that had been using the same stainless steel funeral home table for over 20 years—it looked almost as good as the day they bought it.
This medical-grade material stands up to daily use while resisting those harsh embalming chemicals that would eat through lesser materials. Its non-porous surface prevents bacteria from finding hiding spots, making sanitization between cases much simpler. Plus, there's something about that professional gleam that instills confidence, both for you and for families who might glimpse your preparation area.
I've seen budget tables using 16-gauge steel or aluminum components, and while they'll save you money upfront, they're often a classic case of "buy nice or buy twice." For the base, you'll typically choose between stainless steel pedestals (most durable), powder-coated steel frames (good middle option), aluminum supports (lightweight but less sturdy), or reinforced plastic components (budget-friendly but shorter lifespan).
Surface Design and Drainage
The surface design of your funeral home table directly impacts how smoothly your day goes. Think about it like kitchen countertops—the right design makes cleanup a breeze, while the wrong one creates constant headaches.
Convex surfaces gently guide fluids toward drainage points, while marine edges act like little walls to keep everything contained on the table. Some embalmers prefer perforated tops that allow fluids to pass through to collection troughs, while others like solid tops for easier cleaning (though you'll need to manually direct fluids).
A funeral director friend in South Carolina told me something I'll never forget: "The difference between a quality drainage system and a basic one becomes apparent during complex cases. Those extra minutes spent fighting poor drainage add up to hours every month."
Standard drainage typically includes 3-inch deep troughs for collecting fluids, 6-inch drain stems for connecting to your plumbing, and either central or foot-end drain positioning. Some premium models even include splash guards—a feature you'll appreciate during your first challenging case.
Dimensions and Weight Capacity
Most standard funeral home tables start around 80-85 inches long and 30-35 inches wide. Height is where you'll find more variation—either fixed at 32-34 inches or adjustable from 30-38 inches (more on that below).
Weight capacity is something you simply can't compromise on. Standard tables typically handle 600-650 pounds, reinforced models support 800-900 pounds, and bariatric designs can manage 1,000+ pounds. But it's not just about safety—a table with inadequate weight capacity might flex or wobble during procedures, making your work more difficult and potentially compromising your results.
Mobility Features
Modern funeral home tables have come a long way from the fixed platforms of yesteryear. Today's models typically include 6-8 inch locking swivel casters, removable transport handles, and brake mechanisms on all wheels. Some even offer directional locking for straight-line movement—a feature you'll appreciate when navigating narrow hallways.
I recently helped a funeral director in Los Angeles select new tables for their renovated historic building. With narrow doorways and tight corners, the maneuverability of their new tables completely transformed their workflow between rooms. Sometimes it's these seemingly small features that make the biggest difference in your daily operations.
Adjustable Height & Ergonomics on a Funeral Home Table
If you've ever spent a full day hunched over a table that's too low or stretching to reach one that's too high, you understand why height adjustability is worth every penny. Modern adjustable funeral home tables typically offer a range from 30 to 38 inches, with either hydraulic pump mechanisms operated by foot pedals or electric adjustment with memory settings.
The ergonomic benefits are substantial and directly impact your health and career longevity. I'll never forget what a veteran embalmer from Colorado told me: "After 30 years in the profession, my back issues were becoming debilitating until we invested in hydraulic tables. I've extended my career by at least five years thanks to proper ergonomics."
These adjustable tables allow you to lower the height for heavy transfers and raise it for detailed work, reducing back strain regardless of your height. They also improve accessibility for staff with physical limitations and reduce fatigue during lengthy preparations.
OSHA actually recommends adjustable workstations to prevent musculoskeletal disorders in workplaces where staff perform standing tasks for extended periods. A properly adjusted funeral home table keeps you aligned with these recommendations and potentially saves you from painful and costly injuries.
Drainage Systems and Surface Design
Effective fluid management is what truly separates a professional funeral home table from other tables. Advanced drainage systems combine several thoughtful design elements to make your work cleaner and more efficient.
The best tables feature convex surface designs that naturally channel fluids toward drains, marine edges that contain spillage, and strategically positioned central drains or foot-end drainage. Deep troughs (typically 3 inches) prevent overflow even during aggressive arterial injection, while 6-inch drain stems connect easily to standard plumbing.
Surface textures also play an important role in your daily work. Slightly textured surfaces prevent bodies from sliding, while perforated designs allow immediate drainage. The best surfaces feature smooth, non-porous finishes with seamless construction that eliminates crevices where bacteria could grow.
As our equipment specialist from Arizona often reminds customers, "Proper fluid management isn't just about convenience—it's about maintaining a sanitary environment and showing respect for the deceased."
Mobility, Folding, and Storage Considerations
Space has become increasingly precious in modern funeral homes, especially in urban areas where real estate prices continue to climb. That's why innovative funeral home table designs now address these constraints with smart folding and storage options.
The most space-efficient models include folding mechanisms that reduce storage footprint by up to 80%, wall-mount storage brackets for vertical table storage, and quick-release mechanisms for rapid deployment when needed. For example, the MOBI Folding Embalming Table folds to just 8 inches thick while still providing a full-size 30 × 80 inch work surface when deployed. At only 83 pounds, a single staff member can set it up without assistance.
These portable options have opened new possibilities for funeral homes serving multiple locations. Their lightweight construction makes vehicle transport practical, while compact folded dimensions allow them to fit in standard vehicles without specialized equipment.
A funeral director we work with in Atlanta shared how this flexibility changed their business model: "Our satellite location in a rural community didn't justify a full preparation room, but with our folding table, we can provide full services when needed without the overhead of permanent equipment."
At American Mortuary Coolers, we've helped countless funeral directors find the perfect balance of durability, functionality, and value in their funeral home table selections. If you're ready to explore options that match your specific needs, our team is just a phone call away.
Price Ranges, Brands, and How to Budget Smartly
Investing in a funeral home table is a significant decision for any mortuary business. Understanding the price landscape helps you make choices that balance quality with your available budget.
Entry-Level Options ($659-$1,500)
When you're just starting out or working with limited funds, entry-level tables offer functional solutions without breaking the bank.
"Many of our clients start with a basic folding table and upgrade as their business grows," shares one of our Tennessee equipment specialists. "It's a practical approach that allows you to provide quality service from day one."
In this price range, you'll find solid basics like the Ferno Model 34 Folding Dressing Table at $659. While these models won't have all the bells and whistles, they deliver reliable performance with standard weight capacities around 600-650 pounds. The tradeoff? Simpler drainage systems, fixed heights, and fewer customization options.
Mid-Range Options ($1,500-$5,194)
The sweet spot for many established funeral homes lies in this middle category, where quality construction meets practical functionality.
The MOBI Standard Hydraulic Embalming Table at $2,885 exemplifies the value found in this range. With 14-gauge 304 stainless steel construction and smooth hydraulic height adjustment, these tables offer significant improvements in ergonomics and durability.
Mid-range options typically feature better mobility with quality casters, more sophisticated drainage systems, and materials that stand up to years of chemical exposure. Many funeral directors find this category offers the best balance between upfront investment and long-term value.
Premium Options ($5,200-$20,000)
For specialized needs or when only the best will do, premium funeral home tables deliver advanced features and customization.
"We invested in a high-end adjustable table five years ago, and it's been worth every penny," a Kentucky funeral director told us recently. "The reduced physical strain on our staff alone justified the cost."
At the premium level, expect electric height adjustment, bariatric ratings exceeding 1,000 pounds, and specialized features like integrated scales or refrigeration systems. The Adjustable Height Pedestal Autopsy Table with integrated scale ($19,995) represents the cutting edge, with comprehensive features for the most demanding professional requirements.
Leading Brands in the Funeral Home Table Market
Several manufacturers have built strong reputations in the mortuary equipment space:
Ferno delivers reliable, straightforward designs with proven durability. Their Model 103 Combination Operating Table features independently adjustable ends that have made it a trusted industry standard.
Mobi Medical stands out for their customizable stainless steel tables, with special options for bariatric cases and religious-specific requirements.
Kenyon has built their reputation on innovative refrigeration solutions, offering cooling tables with precise temperature control for extended viewings.
PMT Scientific focuses on specialized autopsy and forensic tables with features designed specifically for medical examiners and forensic applications.
Mortuary Solutions provides comprehensive product lines covering all price points, backed by exceptional after-sale support.
Smart Budgeting Strategies
Approaching your funeral home table purchase with a strategic mindset can help you maximize value:
Consider the total cost of ownership, not just the sticker price. A quality table might cost more initially but require less maintenance and last significantly longer. When you calculate the cost per year of expected service, premium options often become more attractive.
Many suppliers offer financing plans that allow you to acquire better equipment without a large upfront payment. These lease-to-own arrangements can be particularly helpful for new businesses managing cash flow.
Look for bundled equipment packages, which frequently come with substantial discounts when purchasing multiple items together. This approach works well when outfitting a new preparation room or undertaking a complete renovation.
Factory-refurbished tables from reputable manufacturers often come with partial warranties while costing 30-40% less than new models. This middle ground can deliver quality assurance with meaningful savings.
Always plan for future needs, especially if your case volume is growing. Investing in a higher-capacity table now might prevent the need for replacement just a few years down the road.
Choosing Between New, Used, and Antique Options
Your funeral home table acquisition has several possible paths, each with distinct considerations:
New tables come with full warranty protection, the latest design features, and compliance with current regulations. You'll pay more upfront, but gain peace of mind and customization options custom to your specific needs.
Used or refurbished tables offer cost savings of 30-50%, which can be significant for budget-conscious operations. However, you'll likely face a shorter remaining service life, limited or no warranty coverage, and possible compatibility issues with modern plumbing systems.
Antique or vintage tables bring unique aesthetic appeal, especially for historic funeral homes. A funeral director from our Pittsburgh region shares: "We display a restored 1920s cooling table in our heritage room as a conversation piece, but for actual preparation, we rely exclusively on modern equipment that meets current standards."
While these vintage pieces may have collector value that appreciates over time, they typically lack modern features like height adjustment and may require significant restoration to meet current regulations.
Factors to Consider Before Hitting "Buy"
Before finalizing your funeral home table purchase, take time to evaluate these critical factors:
Examine the durability and construction quality by checking material thickness, welding quality, and overall sturdiness. A quality table should feel rock-solid with no flexing or wobbling when pressure is applied.
Consider how easily the table can be cleaned, looking for seamless construction, non-porous surfaces, and accessible drainage components that can be thoroughly sanitized between cases.
Verify regulatory compliance to ensure the table meets all local health department requirements, particularly regarding drainage connections and materials that contact the deceased.
Measure your preparation room carefully, accounting for working clearance around all sides of the table. Most professionals recommend a minimum of 36 inches on all sides for comfortable, safe operation.
Assess whether your staff will need special training for features like hydraulic systems or refrigeration components, and factor any training time into your implementation plan.
Compare warranty coverage details, paying special attention to terms for hydraulic or electrical components that may require service during the table's lifetime.
"The most common mistake we see is funeral homes selecting tables based solely on price without considering their specific workflow needs," notes our equipment specialist from Tennessee. "The right table should improve your processes, not force you to adapt to its limitations."
At American Mortuary Coolers, we understand that selecting the right funeral home table represents a significant investment in your business's future. Our specialists are always available to help you steer these choices with personalized guidance based on your specific needs, space constraints, and budget realities.
Cleaning, Maintenance, and Regulatory Compliance
Taking proper care of your funeral home table isn't just about protecting your investment—it's about ensuring the health and safety of your staff while maintaining the dignity of those in your care. Let me share some practical wisdom that will help your equipment serve you faithfully for years to come.
Daily Maintenance
After a long day in the preparation room, it might be tempting to leave thorough cleaning for tomorrow, but this is where excellence in funeral service truly shows. One of our funeral directors in Johnson City keeps a cleaning log by the sink and offers this golden advice: "Document your cleaning procedures. If you ever face an inspection or question, those detailed records show your commitment to proper protocols."
Start by wiping down all surfaces with EPA-registered disinfectants specifically formulated for funeral service. Those drainage channels deserve special attention—they're notorious hiding spots for residue. Take a moment to inspect the underside surfaces too; they're easy to forget but equally important.
Before you call it a day, run disinfectant solution through the drainage system to ensure everything flows freely without blockages. A quick check of all moving parts—casters, brakes, and height adjustment mechanisms—can prevent unpleasant surprises during tomorrow's work. Finally, scan those surfaces for any new scratches or damage that might compromise sanitation.
Monthly Maintenance
Setting aside just an hour each month for deeper maintenance can dramatically extend the life of your funeral home table. Mark your calendar to clean and lubricate wheel mechanisms and verify that brakes engage properly—casters that roll when they should lock create dangerous situations.
For hydraulic tables, monthly fluid level checks are non-negotiable. Test the full range of motion while you're at it; sluggish response often signals problems before they become critical. This is also the perfect time to examine all welds, joints, and support structures for signs of stress or fatigue.
Don't forget to remove drain covers for a thorough cleaning of traps and pipes. The gradual buildup of residue can lead to stubborn clogs that interrupt your workflow at the worst possible moments.
Annual Service
Even the highest quality funeral home table benefits from professional attention once a year. Consider scheduling this service during your traditionally slower season. For hydraulic systems, a complete fluid change and seal inspection should top your list. If your table features electrical components, having controls and motors checked by a qualified technician prevents unexpected failures.
Annual structural certification verifies that weight capacity compliance remains intact—particularly important as your equipment ages. For cooling tables, professional service of refrigeration components helps maintain consistent temperature control and energy efficiency.
"We've had the same funeral home table for nearly three decades," shares a director from our Chicago location. "The secret isn't magic—it's consistent maintenance and addressing small issues before they grow into expensive problems."
Regulatory Compliance
Navigating the regulatory landscape can feel overwhelming, but understanding how it applies to your funeral home table is simpler than it seems. While these tables aren't directly regulated as medical devices, they should meet FDA guidelines for surfaces that contact human remains.
State funeral board regulations often specify requirements for preparation room equipment, including acceptable table materials and drainage specifications. OSHA compliance focuses on workplace safety standards—particularly weight capacity and ergonomic considerations to protect your staff.
Your local health department likely has specific requirements regarding drainage connections and waste disposal from embalming tables. One of our regulatory specialists suggests creating a compliance binder that documents how your equipment meets all applicable standards: "This preparation proves invaluable during inspections and gives you peace of mind every other day."
Extending the Lifespan of Your Funeral Home Table
Quality funeral home tables represent a significant investment, but with thoughtful care, they can serve your funeral home for decades. Using protective covers when tables aren't in use prevents accidental damage to those pristine stainless steel surfaces. Be selective about cleaning products—only use solutions specifically formulated for stainless steel to prevent corrosion or surface damage.
Regular flushing of drainage systems prevents the buildup of embalming chemicals that could silently corrode pipes from within. When you notice small issues like loose casters or minor leaks, address them promptly—tomorrow's major problems often begin as today's minor annoyances.
Always respect the manufacturer's weight guidelines. Exceeding recommended capacities might seem harmless in the moment, but it places invisible stress on hydraulic systems and structural components that accumulates over time.
Industry Standards You Must Know
The funeral profession maintains several important standards that should guide your funeral home table selection and use. The National Funeral Directors Association publishes recommended standards for preparation room equipment that cover everything from material quality to ergonomic considerations.
OSHA Guidelines for Funeral Homes address working height and lifting considerations—particularly important for staff well-being during long preparation procedures. As our communities change, bariatric accommodation requirements have emerged in many jurisdictions, requiring funeral homes to maintain equipment capable of handling larger cases with dignity.
Refrigeration requirements vary by state, with some mandating cooling capacity based on your case volume. This directly influences whether you need refrigerated tables and their specifications. Many jurisdictions now require visible posting of weight capacities on all lifting and supporting equipment—a simple measure that prevents dangerous overloading.
"Understanding these standards isn't just about checking regulatory boxes," emphasizes our compliance specialist from the Southeast. "It's about providing dignified care while protecting the people who make your funeral home special—your dedicated staff."
At American Mortuary Coolers, we believe that proper maintenance isn't just about equipment longevity—it's about honoring your commitment to families through every detail of your service. When your funeral home table functions flawlessly year after year, it allows you to focus on what truly matters: the families who place their trust in your hands.
Frequently Asked Questions About Funeral Home Tables
How is a funeral home table different from a hospital gurney?
At first glance, a funeral home table might look similar to a hospital gurney, but they're designed for completely different purposes.
Hospital gurneys are built for living patients - they prioritize comfort, mobility, and easy transfers between rooms. In contrast, funeral home tables are purpose-built workstations where we care for the deceased with dignity and precision.
The differences become clear when you look closer. A quality funeral home table features specialized drainage systems with carefully designed troughs and central drains to manage embalming fluids - something you'd never find on medical equipment. They're also constructed with thicker, chemical-resistant stainless steel that stands up to years of exposure to strong preservation chemicals.
"I spent ten years in healthcare before joining our family funeral home," shares James, a director from our Dallas location. "I was surprised by how different the equipment actually is. What looks similar on the surface is engineered quite differently for our specific needs."
Weight capacity is another significant difference. While hospital gurneys typically support 400-500 pounds, standard funeral home tables accommodate 600-1,000 pounds. The height adjustment range also differs, with embalming tables designed for comfortable standing work (30"-38" range) rather than bed transfers.
What weight capacity should I look for in a bariatric case?
When serving larger individuals, having the right equipment isn't just about practicality - it's about providing dignity and ensuring staff safety.
For funeral homes regularly handling bariatric cases, I recommend looking for funeral home tables rated for at least 1,000 pounds. This gives you adequate capacity with a necessary safety margin. Standard tables with their typical 30"-35" width often prove insufficient, so consider bariatric models offering 40"-48" width for proper support and positioning.
Pay attention to how the table distributes weight, too. Quality bariatric funeral home tables feature reinforced frames and additional support points that prevent sagging or instability. Don't forget to check that the casters and mobility features are equally rated for the full weight capacity.
Sarah, a funeral director from our Midwest location, shared a valuable perspective: "We invested in a 1,000-pound capacity bariatric table after noticing about 15% of our cases exceeded standard recommendations. The investment has paid for itself in prevented worker compensation claims alone."
For staff safety, I consider hydraulic lifting capability absolutely essential when working with bariatric cases. The right equipment prevents injuries during transfers and shows respect for the deceased regardless of size.
Do I need a refrigerated funeral home table for every viewing room?
The question of refrigerated tables often comes up when funeral homes are upgrading their facilities, and the answer depends on several factors unique to your situation.
First, check your local regulations. Some jurisdictions actually mandate refrigerated storage based on your case volume or facility design. These requirements vary widely across states and even counties.
Your service model matters too. If you offer extended viewing periods or serve religious communities with specific viewing traditions that delay burial, you'll likely need more refrigeration capacity. The same goes for funeral homes in warmer climates like Florida or Arizona, where temperature control becomes even more critical.
Many of our clients find that having at least one refrigerated funeral home table provides crucial backup even when they have central refrigeration. Equipment can fail at the most inconvenient times, and having alternatives prevents stressful situations.
"We've found a middle-ground approach that works well for us," explains Michael, a director from our Los Angeles location. "Rather than placing refrigerated tables in every viewing room, we maintain a centralized cooling room and use portable, presentation-quality cooling tables that we can move where needed. This gives us flexibility while keeping costs manageable."
While refrigerated tables represent a higher initial investment, they can sometimes reduce the need for chemical preservation in certain cases, which some families appreciate as a more natural option.
At American Mortuary Coolers, we're happy to discuss your specific needs and help determine the right refrigeration strategy for your unique situation.
Conclusion
Choosing the right funeral home table feels a bit like finding a perfect partner – it needs to support you through challenging times, adapt to your specific needs, and hopefully stick around for many years to come. Throughout this guide, we've explored how these specialized tables serve as the true centerpiece of any preparation room, affecting everything from how efficiently your team works to how safely they can perform their duties.
After helping hundreds of funeral directors find their ideal equipment, I've noticed that the most satisfied customers take time to think through their unique situation before making a decision.
Start by reflecting on your daily operations. Do you mainly handle standard cases, or do you regularly serve families with special religious requirements? Is your team experiencing physical strain that an adjustable-height table might alleviate? That bariatric case that challenged your team last month – could better equipment have made that experience more dignified for everyone involved?
Quality construction truly matters in this industry. While budget options exist, there's wisdom in investing in 14-gauge 304 stainless steel that will withstand years of chemical exposure and daily use. As one of our customers in Memphis told me recently, "I've replaced every piece of equipment in my prep room over the last decade except my stainless table – that thing's outlasted everything else!"
Remember to think beyond the immediate price tag. A well-built funeral home table might cost more upfront but could provide 15-20 years of reliable service with proper maintenance. When you divide that initial investment across its lifetime, the premium options often represent better long-term value.
Here at American Mortuary Coolers, we've built our reputation on understanding that no two funeral homes are identical. That's why we craft custom funeral home tables custom to your specific requirements, whether you're operating a multi-location firm in Chicago or a family-owned establishment in a small Montana town.
We deliver directly to funeral homes across all 48 contiguous states, ensuring that your custom equipment arrives ready for immediate use. Our Tennessee roots have taught us the value of straightforward dealing and standing behind our craftsmanship with pride.
"I've spent 35 years in this profession," shared a director from Oregon who recently purchased from us, "and I wish I'd invested in proper equipment sooner. The difference it makes in how I feel at the end of the day and how efficiently we can serve families is remarkable."
If you're ready to explore options for your preparation room, we'd be honored to help. Our specialists understand both the technical specifications and the practical realities of funeral service. We're just a phone call away, ready to help you make this important decision with confidence.
Starting on your purchase? Explore our full lineup of prep-room tables and accessories here