The can opener is a straightforward tool, but it still has specific characteristics that are best known. Using jars of various types in the kitchen is such a common thing that almost everyone needs to have one of these tools available.
That it is an object so frequently used in everyday life does not mean that its purchase can be made lightly. We have prepared this guide for you so that it will be easier for you to find what you need.
Here we had selected some of the best models of the can openers that are listed below.
Things to Consider Before Buying Can Openers
It is clear that having a can opener in your kitchen is essential, and it may be that you have already found, in the selection that we have proposed, what is right for you.
However, we recommend that you wait until the final decision is made. We say this because, in the rest of this article, you will discover other interesting aspects that, put into practice, will make it much easier for you to open any jar.
What Types of Manual Can Openers Exist?
In the early 18th century, airtight cans began to be used for long-term storage of food. But it wasn’t until the middle of the century that the can openers made their appearance.
Fortunately, the basic methods of opening that had been used up to that moment were left behind. Nowadays, there are various manual models; below we summarize the main ones.
- In steel. You will surely remember your grandmother as she tried, when you were little, to explain how to use this compass-shaped can opener. Maybe at the time, you had the impression that it was necessary to have notions of engineering to do it! The blade had to be planted in the lid and then moved from top to bottom, turning around the can. This model is still present in many houses.
- Butterfly. This can opener will no doubt remind you of childhood. It is used in a very similar way to the previous one, but the characteristic butterfly shape makes it simpler.
- With corkscrew. They are the ones that are usually brought to the campsite or used by waiters in bars. They work almost like the previous ones, but even easier to use, and they are also two in one because they include a corkscrew.
- Tongs. They are shaped like a pincer and can be confused with a nutcracker. They have a blade that slips into the lid, and then you just have to go around the jar you want to open.
- Lateral. They are straightforward to use, thanks to the built-in lever. They have a type of sidecut and open the can by moving the lever they have.
3 in 1. The most practical, they have various designs and include a bottle opener and a small crowbar. Very simple to use, they open cans quickly.
Tips to Follow to Use a Can Opener
Regardless of which you choose between a manual or electric can opener, you must take into consideration some tips for its use. Neither model is dangerous, as long as you don’t commit imprudence.
Some of these tips may seem trivial, but in doing daily housework, we often take them for granted. So keep these recommendations in mind.
- Cover. Do not open the can completely: you will prevent the lid from falling into the food. If you use an electric can opener that has a magnet, this won’t be your problem.
- Lever. Always use the lever to remove the lid without cutting yourself. If the model you have chosen does not have one, you can use one of the hooks that are usually included.
- Food Sketches. They are not dangerous, but obviously, it is better to avoid them, and to do this, keep your arm stretched while you open the can to avoid food spills.
- Lama. Can usually have a part that protrudes on the lid, near the edge. Right here, you should stick the blade because it is generally the least resistant part.
- Surface. Always look for a stable surface to rest the can on when opening it, whether you use a manual can opener or you have an electric one. You can also use a well-ironed cloth to put underneath in carrying out the operation.
What Kind of Cut Can Openers Have?
The can openers can have two different types of cuts: top and side. In the first case, the blade is introduced into the upper part of the cover and opens with the help of the tool.
You can cut it completely, being very careful to remove it completely, or, in the case of electric models with a magnet, lift it. The lateral cut, however, is the one for which the can opener opens the can by cutting from under the edge.
If the model you have chosen is of this type, check that it leaves the edges smooth and not sharp, to decrease the risk of unpleasant accidents.
How Should a Can Opener Be Cleaned?
If it is an electric can opener, always try to see if the various parts can be dismantled. It is particularly important to be able to wash the blade and all other pieces that come into contact with food.
The same applies to a manual model. Then, dry all parts thoroughly to prevent oxidation and the dreaded mould from appearing.
How to Avoid Cross-Contamination with A Can Opener?
Direct contamination occurs through direct contact between two mixed foods. It happens especially in the case of raw foods that must be cooked, and others that are consumed as they are.
The can opener can, on the other hand, be the source of another type of contamination, the indirect one. If it cannot be washed, you must clean it with a disinfectant product.
In this case, a kitchen utensil is contaminated when it comes into contact with one food and then is used with another, which in turn contaminates itself. To prevent the can opener from becoming a carrier of cross-contamination, you must wash it well after each use.
How to Consume Preserves Safely?
Now you already know how to clean can openers and know the dangers of cross-contamination. However, there are other aspects to consider to consume your preserves safely.
They have to be taken into consideration because they are related to the attention in using the cans and to what their content looks like.
- Hygiene. We recommend that you always wash the jars before opening them. If you use soap, choose a food product and rinse very well.
Deadline. Whether the can has a preferred expiration or consumable date, stick to it. - Storage. Ideally, the jar should be stored in a cool, dry place, unless otherwise indicated by the manufacturer.
- Defective Can. If the can is swollen or oxidized, we recommend that you throw it away. It does not necessarily mean that it is in a bad state, but it is not worth taking the risk.
- Content. If the contents of the jar look bad, smell bad, foam or whatever, throw it away.
- Open Can. Do not store food in an open jar. It is best to transfer the contents to a suitable container for this purpose.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Can Openers
At this point, you know many features of the can opener, and you may already be clear if you prefer an electric or manual model. However, there are still a few things to discover to make sure you choose the right model.
Before talking about it, we want to show you the main advantages and disadvantages of this tool.
Advantages
- There are very simple models to use.
- There are very cheap alternatives.
- Some have extra features.
Disadvantages
- Some versions require some strength.
- If it is not protected, you risk cutting yourself with the blade.
