How to Use a Can Opener

It’s takes a little bit of time to get the hang of using a can opener. If you haven’t done it before, it can look confusing. But with some practice and know-how, you’ll have it down before you know it.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Using a Manual Can Opener

The two long arms that clamp onto the side of the can are the levers. The handle that is used to turn the can uses an axle and wheel. Lastly, the circular wheel that cuts into a can is called a wedge.^{[1]XResearch source}
2
Open the arms of the can opener. Place the metal tooth (the wedge) on the lip of the can. This will automatically align the wheel of the opener to where it needs to be. Firmly squeeze the arms together. With practice, you’ll be able to tell when it’s on right.
- Until you get the hang of it, you may have to do it several times.
Otherwise, it could fly off the can. It is a sharp object, so you want to be careful. This begins to rotate the wheel underneath that then cuts into the can.
This action pierces the seal, cutting into the can as it moves around the edge of the lid. When it has gone all the way around, the lid will naturally disengage from the opener. Carefully dispose of the cut lid. Enjoy the contents of the container.^{[2]XResearch source}
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Using an Electronic Can Opener

Place the can against the back top part of it. Position the lip of the can between the wheel and the cutting apparatus.^{[3]XResearch source}
This will set the opener into motion. It will begin to rotate the can. Hold it as it turns to keep it from tipping.
This will cause the lid to raise up slightly. When the lid is completely cut, lift the top of the cutter head. Carefully disengage the can from the opener.^{[4]XResearch source}
Grab hold of it between your two fingers versus pressing the cut part against your fingers. Dispose of the lid. Enjoy the contents of the can.
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Using an Old-Fashioned Can Opener

1
Carefully place the “knife” part of the can opener nearly perpendicular to the edge of the top of the can. Then using controlled force, push the knife part of the can opener down into it. With a little practice, it should slide right in.^{[5]XResearch source}
- This type of can opener used to be referred as a “stab push,” and some people still prefer to use it, even over the modern ones.
If you don’t hold the can tightly, or if the blade of the can opener isn't sharp enough, it could slip. If it’s at the right angle, you could end up cutting yourself. Until you’ve done it a few times, it’s probably a good idea to do it with another person.
Now insert the blade into the hole you just made. This time you want it as close to parallel to the edge of the can as possible. Push the blade down again, more gently this time, opening another hole.
“See-Saw” the blade up (cutting) and down, moving around the can as you go. The edge of the can will now be rough and incredibly sharp. Be sure to not rest either hand close to the edge. Enjoy the contents of the can. ^{[6]XResearch source}
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Question
How can I clean my manual can opener?
How.com.vn Staff Editor
Staff Answer
This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
How.com.vn Staff Editor
Staff Answer
After each use, you can place the manual can opener under running water to clean it. However, if it doesn't dry quickly, it can rust, so dab it between a kitchen towel to remove water, then air dry standing upright in a utensil container in a warm spot of the kitchen. Another way to clean it: Fold a sheet of paper towel into a long piece. Insert this towel under the dirty part of the blade (carefully!), then draw it through to collect all the food remains; repeat for the other blade. The towel will remove the mess without the need for wetting the opener.
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Question
Where can I buy an old fashioned can opener?
Community Answer
Anywhere. I see them all the time at Kroger, Walmart, Aldi's, etc. Most places carry them.
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Question
It's really difficult to use an old-fashioned one, I can't get the angle right. Any tips?
Community Answer
Try to do the best you can. If it just keeps popping off the rim of the can when you use it, push it down on the can really hard once in a while or throughout the whole process of opening it. Try not to push too hard, or you could break the can open! But if it's really too difficult, buy a new one.
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Warnings

Make sure you use a non-moving worktop.
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No matter what kind of can opener you use, make sure you have a steady hand, as the blade on the can opener or the lip of the can cut you. If you feel unsure about what you’re doing, you and another person should do it together.
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