How to Open a Can Without a Can Opener

However, there are times when you may find yourself without a can opener on hand. Maybe you're camping and forgot to pack it or you're staying at a friend or relative's house, and no matter where you look, you can find a can opener anywhere. Don't despair! We've got you covered. There are several easy ways to safely open a can without a can opener. No matter which option you choose, make sure you use safety measures. Wear gloves so you don't cut yourself on the sharp edges of the can. If you're ready to learn the best ways to open a can without a can opener, read on.

Use a Metal Spoon

A metal spoon is the hands-down best method for opening a can without a can opener. Hold the round end of the spoon firmly in the palm of your hand. You should have four fingers wrapped around it with the bottom of the bowl just beyond your pinky. Maintaining firm pressure, rub the rim of the spoon around the edge of the can where you'd normally use the can opener. As you keep rubbing the spoon against the can, the metal will begin to thin, ultimately creating a hole. Once you make a hole in the can, stick the edge of the spoon in the hole and pry the lid upwards. Keep working around the edge until you can eventually remove the lid. This method takes a little time, but it's fairly fool-proof.

Use a Pocket Knife

If you have a Swiss army knife, you can use it to open cans. This classic pocket knife has a can opener attachment which is curved with a hooked back. Open the can opener attachment on your knife and place it so the hook rests on the outside of the rim of the can. Put your thumb over the can opener and push down to make cuts in the can. Work your way around the can, making small cuts. When you have about a half-inch of the can left, use the flat edge of the can opener to pry the lid away from the can. Wipe the rim with a damp cloth to remove any shards of metal, and you're ready to go!

Use a Chef's Knife

For a faster way to open a can, you can use the heel of a chef's knife. The heel is the part of the blade that is closest to the handle. Using the heel is a safer option compared to using the tip of the knife. With a firm grip, grab the handle and put the heel of the blade perpendicular to the can along the seam. Making a downward motion with the corner of the blade, dig into the can the same way you would with a can opener to make a hole in the lid. Continue this motion around the rim until you're able to pry the lid away from the can.

Use a Rough Surface

Sometimes we find ourselves with a can but no tools to open it! A simple solution is to use a rough surface like a rock or patch of concrete. The only downside to this method is that it takes a good bit of time to do. Take your can and sand the rim against the rough surface. Eventually, the can will break. Wipe the metal away and carefully open the lid. It's that easy!