Food Cooking Tips & Techniques Cooking How to Use a Can Opener the Right Way Never struggle with a can opener again. By Ariel Klein Ariel Klein Ariel Klein is a freelance writer specializing in lifestyle, fashion, beauty, technology, home, cooking, and gardening topics. Her work has appeared in Real Simple, Well+Good, Travel+Leisure, Better Homes and Gardens, and Food & Wine magazine. Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines Published on June 22, 2024 Close Photo: Jakob Berg/Getty Images A standard can opener is one of those tricky kitchen gadgets that can be difficult to use. And while it may seem like a pretty straightforward process, there’s always some sort of issue with the lid, the paper around the can, or moving the can opener all the way around. But, before you add an electric can opener to your Amazon cart, you may want to re-evaluate your can-opening technique, because the truth is, most people aren’t using this gadget properly. 6 Things You Probably Don’t Need in Your Kitchen, According to Chefs If you’ve been using a can opener by puncturing the side of the can, your mind is about to be blown. These two simple steps will teach you the correct way to open a can without the hassle or mess once and for all. Look for a can opener that has either grips or comfortable handles, so it’s easier to use.Make sure to clean your can opener before each use so you don’t transfer germs and bacteria to whatever you’re opening.Be sure to replace your can opener once you notice the blades are beginning to dull. Blender vs. Food Processor? Here Are the Pros and Cons of Each What You'll Need Equipment / Tools Standard can opener Can of vegetables, beans, or whatever you’d like Instructions Affix the Can Opener to the Top of the Can Clamp the blades of the can opener around the top of the can. Make sure the wheels of the blade are aligned securely with the lid. Rotate the Knob to Open the Can Turn the knob to begin opening the can. Continue until the can opener has made its way around the whole can, and the lid comes completely off. 10 Things You Should Never Put in the Microwave Clean Your Can Opener Using a damp paper towel and a bit of dish soap, gently clean the blades of the can opener so it’s ready for next time.