Opening a can without proper tools can be a real struggle and can result in spilling out its contents. The super rescuers from this dilemma are the can opener tools. From manual to electric models, an array of can opener tools are available in the market to make our life easier.
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A can opener is an indispensable kitchen tool that is both convenient and efficient. Many models are available in both manual and automatic types. Portable can openers are small enough to be carried around, and some even have built-in sharpeners. Multitasking openers combine the functionality of various openers like bottle and jar lid openers in the can opener device.
Can openers are super cool kitchen tools to have around in your kitchen. They ensure a precise puncture followed by smooth cutting of the edge, allowing easy removal of the lid without touching the contents of the can.
So, if you are on the verge of buying a new can opener, be sure to check out some of the latest options in the market. You may be in for a surprise!
Also, check out the article below for more insight into different types of can openers, the best picks in the market, and safety features. It will also help you decide which one of these handy tools is a good option to invest in.
1. What Are The Different Types Of Can Openers And Their Advantages?
- Manual Can Openers:
i) These are the traditional ones that you could find in your granny’s home.
ii) They are designed with a cutting wheel that punctures into the can and a rotating lever that helps turn the wheel as you cut.
iii) The pros of the manual can openers are their affordability, simple build, and portability.
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- Electric Can Openers:
i) As the name suggests, they are powered by electricity and offer the comfort of opening the can with the push of a button.
ii) People with limitations like hand restrictions and mobility issues greatly benefit from this type of can opener.
iii) Electric can openers are faster and more efficient than their traditional counterparts.
iv) Built-in sharpeners and magnetic lid holders are some of the covetous features of an electric can opener.
- Safety Can Openers:
i) This can opener is best suited for homes with small children or people concerned about safety.
ii) They slice along the rim of the can with a smooth edge ensuring no accidental cuts by any chance.
iii) They are completely foolproof, don’t create sharp edges that can cause injuries or accidents, and stay true to their name.
- Side Cutting Can Openers:
i) These work by cutting through the can’s side rather than from the can’s top.
ii) It accomplishes a smooth cut on both the can’s lid and the can’s rim.
iii) Also, if you have any unfinished contents in your can, you can use the cut lid as a lid to cover it. That’s why it is suitable for people who have the habit of leaving leftovers in their cans.
- Wall-Mounted Can Openers:
i) If you are short on space, use these can openers as they can be mounted on the wall as the name suggests or even fit under a cabinet, freeing your precious counter space.
ii) They have a crank handle that attaches to the can’s lid and requires little effort.
iii) They are a perfect fit for commercial setups and busy kitchens as they are super convenient. Personal preferences, specific needs, your budget, and kitchen requirements largely dictate which can opener is ideal for us. You can choose the one based on convenience, durability, upkeep, and safety features.
2. Which Can Opener Is The Best?
Picking the BEST can opener depends on your personal preferences and necessities. However, based on user ratings and popular choices, here are a few highly voted can openers:
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- OXO Good Grips Smooth Edge Can Opener: This side-cutting can opener is a manual side-cutting device that leaves a smooth rim without leaving any chance of sharp edges. This feature increases its value in terms of safety. It also has comfortable handles to grip and is easy to use and clean.
- EZ-Duz-It Deluxe Can Opener: This old model can opener has been an evergreen star in the world of can openers and seems to be going strong. It is because it is both handy and durable. With comfortable handles and a smooth cutting mechanism, it is designed to open cans of different sizes with little effort.
- Swing-A-Way Comfort Grip Can Opener: This manual can opener is sturdy in build, has comfortable grip handles, and has a smooth cutting motion. It is specially designed to open cans of all sizes and is quite durable as well.
- Chef’n EzSqueeze One-Handed Can Opener: It is suited for people with hand limitations and disabilities. Surprisingly, it is not an automatic one but a manual can opener. It is designed to function with a one-handed operation. Its striking features are the squeeze-to-open mechanism and easy lid release feature with a magnet to lift the lid.
- Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch Electric Can Opener: If you want smoothness and efficiency in your can opener, opt for the Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch Electric Can Opener; so, true to its name. Some of its popular features are that it is electricity powered, automatic, and works at the press of a single button push. Its side-cutting system leaves a smooth edge. It also includes a built-in knife sharpener, so you don’t need to worry about sharpening its blunt edges.
3. What Are The Uses Of A Can Opener?
The primary use of a can opener is to open canned foods like fruits, vegetables, pulses, soups, sauces, and more. It helps you access the can’s contents for immediate consumption or meal preparation.
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They are not just used to access cans containing dry goods, coffee, powdered milk, cocoa powder, and spices, but also foods with liquids like tuna, salmon, or beans.
Some can openers remove the lids while opening the cans, which is an extra feature of that particular model.
Some others offer a clean cut of the lid from the can, ensuring safe removal of the lid.
Not just the above, some can openers have added functionalities to open bottle caps and jar caps as well. This makes them a 3-in-1 multifunctional tool.
4. Which Electric Can Openers Are The Best?
Based on positive customer reviews and feedback, we have listed some of the popular options for you:
- Cuisinart CCO-50BKN Deluxe Electric Can Opener: This electric top-cut can opener has a power-cut blade, lever, guide posts, magnetic holder, and one-touch operation. Lift the lever and fix the can under the guiding posts, which helps align the can. Now lower the lever, and the machine starts its cutting process. Once the lid is cut off, lift the lever to release the can. The lid can later be removed from the magnetic holder and safely disposed of. Such a smooth and effortless operation.
- Black + Decker Spacemaker Under-Counter Can Opener: If you are short of counter space in your kitchen, you must go for this one. Set it up under the cabinet using the instruction module. Lift the lever, fix the can, and start cutting. Once it cuts the can, it automatically stops, and you can remove the can by releasing the lever. Additional add-ons of this equipment are a power-pierce cutter, a knife sharpener, and a built-in bottle opener.
- Proctor Silex Power Electric Automatic Can Opener: This affordable electric can opener, suitable for tall and short cans alike, offers one-touch operation and opens cans fast and efficiently. The additional perks of owning this one include the sleek design, a removable cutting lever for easy cleaning, cord storage, and a built-in knife sharpener.
- Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch Electric Can Opener: This electric can opener utilizes the side-cutting maneuver to remove the lid. Fix the can, press the button, and the cutting progresses smoothly and efficiently. With the top lid off, you can use all its contents or just leave the rest inside and cover it back up with the lid. It has a removable cutting unit for easy cleaning and a built-in knife sharpener.
- Oster FPSTCN1300 Electric Can Opener: This electric can opener features a power pierce cutting mechanism and a magnetic lid lifter that safely removes lids. Accessories that come with this tool include built-in cord storage, a bottle opener, and a knife sharpener. Sturdy construction, compact design that fits well on countertops, and long life are some of its star features.
Prior research can help you find the perfect model for your needs. So, take time to choose a suitable electric can opener before narrowing down on one for your purchase.
5. What Are Manual Can Openers?
Manual can openers are simple kitchen tools that are used to open cans. They are typically an assembly of a cutting wheel, a serrated blade, and a handle.
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The parts of this manual can opener consist of a cutting wheel and a sharp and circular blade to pierce the lid of the can.
To establish a perfect cut with this manual can opener,
- Place the cutting wheel at the lid’s lip.
- Now push it down to penetrate the metal.
- Keep rotating the handle while the cutting wheel cuts through the lid. This ensures a smooth and even cut.
- Once the whole circle is completed, the lid will be partly coming off.
- Lift the lid to remove it from the can.
Manual can openers are popular among can openers because they are pocket-friendly, simple, and convenient, which is probably why they are commonly found in most kitchens.
Nowadays, manual can openers are magnetic, which makes it easier to keep them close at hand when you need them the most.
In addition, since they are compact and portable, requiring no power source, they are a convenient option for outings and other situations where power supply is unavailable.
6. What Are Some Safety Tips That One Should Keep In Mind While Using Can Openers?
Safe use of can openers can ensure the prevention of accidents and injuries. Some crucial safety tips that should be kept in mind when using a can opener are given below:
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- Go for a Dependable Can Opener: Don’t go for low-grade, cheap can openers; they can possibly break down or crash, causing the risk of accidents.
- Read Instruction Manual: Once you buy your new can opener, go through the user manual 2-3 times to ensure you follow the proper method while opening your cans.
- Be Gentle: Don’t be too harsh on your can opener. Instead, apply gentle but steady pressure only while turning the can opener’s handle. Excessive force can cause the can opener to slip away from your hand or break, leading to mishaps.
- Stay Vigilant: Can opening involves cutting and cutting a thin tin can. Even if your can opener vouches for a smooth cut, the edges can still be sharp and cut right through. So, be careful and avoid careless lid handling (without protection) and prevent injuries.
- Watch Your Hands: Though opening a can with a can opener is an effortless task, check twice and secure your hands and fingers before the cutting maneuver. Never be careless.
- Safely Dispose Of the Lids: Wrap and secure the lid and dispose of it safely so it doesn’t cause any accidents to people handling your garbage.
- Maintenance: A can opener’s upkeep is essential as a dirty can opener with food debris buildup can harbor harmful bacteria. Ensure the cutting wheel is kept sharp and in its best condition to avoid accidents. Blunt or damaged blades will make the cut less effective, and so increase the risk of accidents.
- Mindful Watching Of Kids: If you have children in your home, store your can opener away from them as they can accidentally cut themselves with it. Once they are at a teachable age, instruct them on the functioning, the potential hazards, and the importance of caution before letting them use it.
Remember, these safety tips are general guidelines, and it’s essential to always follow the specific instructions and warnings provided by the manufacturer of your can opener.
