Manual can openers are rarely used as more modern kitchen utensils are introduced. Using this tool is quite simple, it's just that you may need a little practice to be able to use it efficiently. Be careful not to get hurt by the sharp edges of the can once it's opened!
Step
Method 1 of 3: Adjusting the Position of the Tool
Step 1. Determine the side of the can cutter
Generally, the cutting mechanism on a manual can opener consists of a sharp tip that functions to punch holes in the can lid. You may notice a curved or bent part. This section is usually at the top of the two long "arms" of the tool opener and cover, which should be parallel to the handles, axles, and serrated wheels that clamp the edges of the can lid.
Step 2. Place the can on a flat and stable place
Do not hold the can in the air. A stable surface will support the base of the can. That way, you can more easily puncture the lid of the can. Holding the can in the air also increases your risk of getting hurt or spilling the contents of the can.
Step 3. Open the sleeve of the can opener
Spread the tool arm as far as possible. That way, you can place the tool in the right place on the can.
Step 4. Place the tool on the top of the can
Make sure the sharp end of the tool is on the lip of the can lid. In this position, the gear wheel on the tool should be parallel to the rim of the can. Make sure the rotating handle on the appliance is pointing out of the can.
Method 2 of 3: Opening a Can
Step 1. Prick the lid of the can
Close the two tool arms to push the sharp edges into the can. Listen for a hissing sound as the tool punctures the can and releases pressure from inside.
Step 2. Rotate the tool handle
Turn the rod on the outside of the tool handle to turn the serrated wheel around the inner lip of the can. As the wheel rotates, the can lid should clip off evenly. Continue moving the tool around the rim of the can until it is almost completely removed.
Generally, this rod rotates clockwise to cut the can. If you do not get the desired result, try changing the direction of movement of the rod
Step 3. Lift the lid of the can
Use your fingernail or a knife to pry off the cut edges of the can so that you can hold it with your fingers. Gently pull the can lid off the body. Pour the contents of the can into a bowl or other container, do not eat directly from the can! During this process, be careful not to get hurt by the sharp edges or lids of the can. Hold the flat top and bottom sides of the can lid, but don't touch the edges. Watch for metal flakes when opening the can as you'll have a hard time finding it once it's mixed with the contents of the can!
Alternatively, keep cutting the can lid off until it's completely removed. However, the lid of the can may sink slightly into the contents, making it even more difficult to remove. Try prying the lid off the can with a knife or other thin, strong object
Method 3 of 3: Troubleshooting
Step 1. Get ready to customize the tool
If you don't press enough on the can opener while turning the wheel, it may stop clamping the can lid and just spin on the surface. For that, you will have to rearrange the cutting edge of the tool for it to work. Remove the tool from the can and reattach it at the last cut point.
Step 2. Clean the appliance thoroughly before each use
Food residue easily accumulates on the parts of the appliance that come into contact with the contents of the can. This small section, which is mainly located on the cutting side of the tool, can be a breeding ground for bacteria.
Step 3. Consider other ways
If you can't open the can with this tool, find another way to open the can. You can use an automatic can opener, a knife (provided you're very careful), and you might even be able to try prying out certain cans with your fingernail (if you also apply a little friction).
