How To Open A Can Without A Dedicated Opener

Finding yourself with a canned good and no can opener might feel like an insurmountable roadblock, but you can still open it with a little creativity, patience, and care. Here's how to do it safely and effectively so your flavorful canned veggies wind up on your plate and not back in the pantry.

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This trick also involves one of the most basic kitchen tools of all. That's because a sturdy metal spoon is a surprising substitute for a can opener. To start, hold the spoon securely in your dominant hand, gripping it tightly for maximum control. Position the tip of the spoon against the inner edge of the can's lid, just inside the raised rim. Using a firm back-and-forth motion, grind the edge of the spoon against the metal, as seen in this viral TikTok.

The friction will slowly wear down the lid and create a small puncture. Once the spoon breaks through the metal, continue rubbing along the edge of the lid, gradually cutting through until the lid is entirely detached. There, there should be enough space for you to stick the spoon under the lid and lift it. Be especially careful here, as the can's edges can be sharp.

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No spoon? Try a knife ... very carefully

A knife can also be a handy tool for opening a can, but it requires extra care. Choose a sturdy knife, such as a butter knife, rather than a sharp kitchen variety, which could slip and cause some nasty injuries. Hold the knife securely and place the tip against the can lid's edge.

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Press or gently tap the knife using controlled pressure until it punctures the lid. Once the lid is pierced, wiggle the knife back and forth while moving it along the rim. Continue this process by working your way around the lid until it's fully loosened or there's enough space for you to stick the knife under the lid and carefully lift it. After opening the can, check the edges of the lid and the can itself for sharp or loose bits of metal, and clean the edges before consuming the food. Be sure to do this hack on a stable surface to keep the can steady when using either method. We strongly recommend protecting your hand with gloves, too. 

With patience and caution, a spoon or knife can make opening a can relatively simple without a can opener. It may be a bit trickier than Martha Stewart's rubber band trick to open stubborn jars, but it's a handy skill for emergencies or when you're caught without the right tools, similar to this wine bottle opening hack when you've lost your corkscrew.

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