I need to open a can without a can opener
I swear I had a can opener, but I can not find it all in my kitchen! This can doesn't have a tab to open it, so I feel kind of stuck. Any household hacks to open this without making a mess?
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For a complete guide to this topic, read the wikiHow article How to Open a Can Without a Can Opener
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You can use a knife to cut open the can, although I would not recommend this option; it can be dangerous.
Angle the sharp point into the lid around the edge. Gently, but firmly, tap on the heel of the knife. Do this as many times as needed to create an opening in the can. Be very careful using this technique, as you can cut yourself.
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Angle the sharp point into the lid around the edge. Gently, but firmly, tap on the heel of the knife. Do this as many times as needed to create an opening in the can. Be very careful using this technique, as you can cut yourself.
Unfortunately, I don’t have any hacks for opening a can without a can opener. And honestly, I’ve gone through so many can openers—most break or only work twice. My husband finally bought an electric one on Amazon, and I take it with me when I do cooking classes or private events. I love it!
But those really simple, old-fashioned metal turn-key ones still work well. They’ve been around since the 1800s. If your grandma has one, make sure it’s in the will!
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But those really simple, old-fashioned metal turn-key ones still work well. They’ve been around since the 1800s. If your grandma has one, make sure it’s in the will!
To easily open a can without a can opener, try using a spoon. Hold the handle as close to the "bowl" of the spoon as you can, and press it into the lid of the can near the lip. Keep rubbing the same spot with firm pressure until the metal wears thin and breaks. Then, just move the spoon along the rim of the can to cut the lid off.
In a pinch, you can use a sharp knife or box cutter, but be careful not to cut yourself. Use the part of the knife closest to the handle to poke holes around the can's lid until you can remove it.
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In a pinch, you can use a sharp knife or box cutter, but be careful not to cut yourself. Use the part of the knife closest to the handle to poke holes around the can's lid until you can remove it.
Heads up that this will probably damage the spoon that you're using, so use a spoon you don't mind damaging if you can.
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Please be VERY careful if you're using a knife to open a can opener! Trying to force open a can with something that can kill you is super dangerous and you don't want any accidents. I'd recommend trying any other options you have before going with a knife.
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I've used the "rock method" while camping! Take a rock and grind it against the can until there's a leak in it, then you should be able to pop the can open.
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