Any housewife uses canned food in her everyday life. When preparing salads, you can use canned peas or corn; when you don’t have time to prepare snacks, you can always use canned fish. And when going on a hike, people always take stew, porridge or canned soup with them. Although many cans have special devices for opening the lid, you should always have a good can opener in the house.
How the can opener came to be
Before talking about the origin of the can opener, it is worth touching on the history of the origin of the canned food itself. They appeared during the time of Napoleon, when his army needed long-term storage of food. Napoleon's army was not small, therefore, a lot of food was also needed, and they had to be stored for a long time. Then the pastry chef Apper suggested canning the food. At first glass jars were used for this, but they were impractical and fragile. Therefore, they began to look for other ways to solve this problem. This is how tin cans for storing food were invented. And here the question arose of how to open such banks.
They were used not only by soldiers, but also on expeditions. Manufacturers wrote on their cans that you should use a hammer and chisel to open them. It was very problematic and inconvenient.
Since thick tin cans were very difficult to open, later they began to use thinner tin. And already in 1858 the first can opener was patented. Its inventor was Ezra Warner. This knife was called the “bull’s head”. This product had two blades. One of them was straight and sharp, and the second was curved. A straight blade was used to pierce a can, and a curved blade was used to cut tin. The "Bull's Head" opened not only canned food, but could also open the lids of bottles and cans.
About 10 years later, another American inventor proposed using a cutting wheel to open it. His tool was a kind of compass; now, to open a tin can, you had to stick one leg into the center of the can, and the second rotated along the edge of the lid. Later this design was improved. A gear has been added to the product. So, when opening the can, its rim was fixed between the blade and the gear. At the same time, during opening, the blade did not slip, and the cut was smooth and had no jagged edges. This mechanism is still used today, only the models began to be supplemented with magnets and electric drives.
Recommendations for care and storage
Proper care will help extend the life of any appliance, and a can opener is no exception. Before using any device, you must carefully read the operating instructions.
- It is best to wash the device immediately after use in cool or warm water. Hot water can damage some parts of the can opener.
- Not all models can be put in the dishwasher. This information should be included in the user manual.
- To remove particularly difficult stains from the device, any dishwashing detergent is suitable. Products are usually not afraid of dyes and fragrances in detergents.
Can openers do not require special storage conditions, so they can easily be placed in the same place with other cutlery.
What types of can openers are there?
On store shelves you can find a large selection of this tool for opening cans. They may differ in material of manufacture, size, shape, and most importantly, mechanism.
The simplest option is a hand knife. This option is close to the first version of the can opener invented by Ezra Warner. This knife has a handle, which can be made of wood, metal or plastic, and two knives with a jumper. The jumper is necessary to provide support when opening the can. The knives differ in size; a long blade is used to open tin cans, and a small rounded knife is designed to uncork caps from glass jars or bottles.
The next option is a mechanical knife. Its design is a little more complicated than the manual model. When using it, you first need to make a hole, then secure the product well on the side of the can and rotate the mechanism. Strong metal is used in their manufacture, and to create comfort during use, the handles are made with plastic, rubber or wooden linings. It is worth noting that after opening the cans with such a knife, they do not have sharp edges that can cause you to cut yourself.
The third option is an automatic can opener. Such models are very popular today due to their ease of use. This device uses batteries to operate. To open a can, you just need to touch the device and start the mechanism. It is worth noting that the lid will open from the inside, so the edges will not only be smooth, but also smoothed, so it will be impossible to get hurt. These models also have a magnet, with the help of which the lid will be removed immediately after opening. The main advantages of such models are convenience, compactness and durability. But still, before use, you should carefully study the instructions and follow all safety rules.
Well, the last type is an electric “opener”. The design of this product consists of an electric motor, a clamp and a cutting mechanism. Different models may differ in design, but the operating principle remains the same. Before you start working with such a kitchen assistant, you should secure the jar with a lock, and then the mechanism will start. When the device finishes working, the can is removed from the latch. The main advantage of these models is safety and speed, but still, electric models are bulky and will not work in the absence of electricity.
Features of screw caps
Screw caps for closing jars are considered the most popular both among housewives and among manufacturers of various types of canned goods. They are distinguished by the presence of threads that are easily screwed onto glass containers, providing a high level of sealing. This design is perfect for storing refrigerated products. As the temperature drops, the material from which the device is made contracts, which further increases the level of sealing.
Among the main advantages of such products, it is worth highlighting the following:
- ease of use (no need to use a wrench or seaming machine);
- the ability to store preserved food for more than six months (the hermetically sealed jar is protected from bacteria getting inside);
- greater density than tin lids (this significantly reduces the likelihood of bloating);
- Possibility of repeated use (before the first signs of rust appear).
Such covers also have certain disadvantages:
- higher cost than tin products;
- When trying to open a jar, difficulties often arise, to eliminate which an opener is used.
Screw-on lids are easy to use and also versatile, as they are suitable for preserving any type of product. Simply heat the products by steaming or in hot water at a temperature of up to 60 degrees Celsius, then screw tightly onto the jar. The design uses a polymer gasket, which, after heating, provides a reliable seal.
Operating rules
Even when using the simplest “opener” model, problems may arise due to failure to comply with certain nuances. So, if you have a manual version of the product, then the cutting element is installed perpendicular to the can, after which you need to press on the handle to create a hole. In this case, it is necessary to hold the can tightly so that it does not slip during the process. When the hole is made, the cutting element is inserted there and moved forward with progressive movements. Such an opener will leave nicks on the lid, so you should remove it with extreme caution.
For owners of a mechanical model, place the can under the wheel and secure the wedge. Afterwards you can start turning the mechanism. In this case, the edges will not have jagged edges and there will be no problems when removing the cover.
To use the electric version of the knife, you need to lift the cutting part and fix the can under it. In this case, the edge of the can should be under the knife. After this, the cutting part is lowered and the mechanism starts. Such devices have a magnet that will hold the lid. When the knife makes a circle, you will need to lift the cutting head and remove the can.
The final stage of working with banks
The container is filled with delicious preserves; all that remains is to seal the jars well. The main role here is played by the lids and the seaming machine.
Regardless of how glass jars were sealed - with a key or a screw cap - you need to check the quality of the closure. How to do this?
If done incorrectly, the contents will slowly leak out, signaling that you need to tighten the cap better or replace it with a new one.
Another important point: after capping, try to twist the lid on the jar with your fingers.
If it rotates along its axis, the seaming quality is poor, it is better to change the device. Do not neglect these simple rules: it is better to repeat the process several times than to throw the spoiled contents of the cans into the trash after a while.
- When purchasing lids with a shiny varnish coating, you must check the quality of this application: rub a cotton pad moistened with acetone or alcohol on the inside of the device. If there are traces of varnish on the cotton wool, it is better not to use such lids - the shiny coating can, under the influence of vinegar, happily become a seasoning for your favorite cucumbers or tomatoes.
- You can also check in advance whether the screw cap seals well and whether there is a flaw in the glass container. After collecting some liquid in the jar, seal the container tightly and place it on a sheet of paper. If the contents leak, the paper will quickly become saturated with moisture. You can try to do this with a different lid; if the result is the same, you will have to throw away the jar or adapt it for other needs - it is not suitable for preservation.
- It often happens that after filling jars with hot jam or jam, a disaster occurs: the container, previously intact and quite reliable, cracks and becomes completely unusable, threatening to ruin the contents. To prevent this from happening, you should put a few spoons of the hot product and twist the container a little with your hands so that it warms up well. Only after this can you safely fill it to the very top.
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Criterias of choice
To make a canned knife easy to use, you should consider several criteria before purchasing. Since you can find many different models on store shelves, first of all you should decide on the most suitable mechanism.
After this, you should study the material of manufacture; not only ease of use, but also the durability of the device will depend on this. Dimensions and weight also play an important role. If the model is too heavy, it will create inconvenience during work. And large devices will take up a lot of space when stored. The handles must be made of non-slip material, otherwise you can easily get hurt or knock over the jar while working.
When purchasing an electrical device, you need to pay attention to the type of power supply, cord length and material of manufacture. During operation, they should not slide on the tabletop, otherwise use will be unsafe.
It will also be very useful if the product, in addition to opening cans, has additional functionality. For example, the ability to open bottles. This will help you avoid buying additional accessories and save space in your cabinets for storing kitchen equipment.
Sterilization methods
Experienced housewives have several methods in their arsenal to get rid of invisible bacteria. They know how to properly sterilize lids with rubber bands in any canning conditions. This helps to comply with the rules when there is a lack of water or heat. Often you have to urgently prepare grown vegetables or fruits at your dacha.
There is little time, gas and water need to be saved. But you still need to preserve it. Knowledge of effective sterilization methods will help you prepare tasty preserves under unfavorable conditions. Sterilization is the destruction of dangerous bacteria by raising the temperature to 100 degrees Celsius or higher. But such conditions are also dangerous for humans.
Best Mechanical Can Openers
Tefal Comfort
With Tefal Comfort you can easily and quickly open a can. The cutting part is made of steel, so during operation there will be no rust or darkening on the metal. Operation will be convenient, since the manufacturer used lightweight but durable plastic. The handle has an ergonomic shape, so “Tefal Comfort” will fit comfortably in your hand and will not slip when opening. For convenient storage there is a hole in the handle, with its help the product can be hung on a hook.
"Tefal Comfort" is available in black. To clean the opener, both manual and machine washing is allowed.
The average cost is 1900 rubles.
Tefal Comfort can opener
Advantages:
- Durable plastic;
- When cutting, it does not create nicks;
- Sharp cutting part;
- Ergonomic design;
- Verified manufacturer.
Flaws:
- High price.
Joseph Joseph Can-Do
British has long established itself as a reliable manufacturer of kitchen appliances. And the Can-Do opener is proof of this statement. First of all, it should be noted that only environmentally friendly materials are used for production, which are also not afraid of thermal effects.
The “Can-Do” handle has an ergonomic shape, so operating the device will not cause any difficulties. This will ensure a secure grip on the lid, allowing it to be easily removed after opening. The fixation on the canned food will be tight, which will prevent the device from slipping out. And the rotary mechanism and a sharp steel knife can easily cope with any metal. It is also worth noting that such a device will be equally convenient to use for right-handers and left-handers.
The size of “Can-Do” is 7*5.5*5.5 cm, and the weight is 100 grams.
The average cost is 1600 rubles.
can opener Joseph Joseph Can-Do
Advantages:
- Ease of use;
- Compact size;
- Steel knife;
- Reliable fixation;
- Positive customer reviews.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Marvel
This model has a rigid fastening and a rotating mechanism, thanks to which opening canned food does not take much time and effort. The Marvel body and cutting mechanism are made of stainless steel. This way, even with frequent use of the opener, rust will not appear on the metal and it will not change color. For additional convenience, the handles have plastic inserts that will prevent slipping.
The size of “Marvel” is 25 * 7.5 * 6 cm, and weight is 270 grams.
The average cost is 450 rubles.
Marvel can opener
Advantages:
- Material of manufacture;
- The handles have plastic inserts;
- Quick and easy opening of cans;
- Stylish design;
- Affordable price.
Flaws:
- Not suitable for all types of cans.
Taller TR-5151
With the help of "Taller TR-5151" you can easily open any tin can. This model has a cutting part made of alloy steel, and its body is made of zinc alloy with chrome plating. The Taller TR-5151 handles have an ergonomic shape, and to eliminate slipping during operation, the manufacturer added a silicone coating.
The size of “Taller TR-5151” is 22*1*6.8 cm. Caring for this opener will not require much effort, and you can even wash it in the dishwasher.
The average cost is 850 rubles.
can opener Taller TR-5151
Advantages:
- Does not leave nicks;
- Ease of use;
- Stylish design;
- Non-slip handles.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Tescoma GrandChef
This model from the Czech brand “Tescoma” will be appreciated by both housewives and professional chefs. A special feature of “Tescoma GrandChef” is the ability to open not only cans, but also bottles with crown caps. To make the body of such an opener, the manufacturer used metal with a treated surface and a matte finish. And the cutting element is made of high quality stainless steel. The sharp Tescoma GrandChef blade can easily cut through a tin can without leaving any sharp edges or nicks that can be dangerous.
The length of “Tescoma GrandChef” is 21 cm and the width is 5.5 cm. Weight is about 200 grams. Dishwasher safe.
The average cost is 1000 rubles.
Tescoma GrandChef can opener
Advantages:
- Sharp blade;
- Original design;
- Suitable for opening bottles;
- Verified manufacturer.
Flaws:
- There are no anti-slip inserts.
Comparison table of characteristics
Next, we are pleased to present to your attention a table with the main technical parameters of each described position.
| Name | Size(cm) | Weight (g) | Loop presence | Cost, rub) |
| JOSEPH CAN-DO | 10x10x5 | 100 | – | 300 – 450 |
| NADOBA SIRENA | 25x11x5 | 390 | – | 500 – 700 |
| TEFAL INGENIO | 12x20x6 | 240 | – | 300 – 400 |
| Tescoma Presto | 22x9x4 | 100 | + | 200 – 250 |
| Fackelmann Lichfield | 17x15x2 | 120 | + | 90 – 150 |
| 6 in 1 Kitchen CanDo | 6x19x5 | 190 | – | 100 – 250 |
| Regent Inox | 11x21x5 | 240 | + | 200 – 300 |
Best Electric Can Openers
Rommelsbacher DO 65
With the Rommelsbacher DO 65 you can quickly and most importantly safely open a tin can. It can easily handle canned goods weighing no more than 850 grams. When the can is installed, the Rommelsbacher DO 65 will automatically start working, and the device will also turn off when it has completed a full circle. The lid will be securely fixed with a magnetic holder, which will prevent your hands from getting dirty.
The Rommelsbacher DO 65 body is made of plastic, and the cutting elements are made of steel. It is worth noting that the case has an additional bottle opener, as well as a knife sharpener. The size of “Rommelsbacher DO 65” is 22.4 * 13.5 * 13.5 cm. The power of the device is 60 W.
The average cost is 3,500 rubles.
can opener Rommelsbacher DO 65
Advantages:
- Easy operation;
- Sharp knife;
- There is a place to store the power cord;
- There is a bottle opener and a knife sharpener.
Flaws:
- Hard to find on sale.
Kitchen Tools
This model belongs to automatic models of openers. To operate the device you will need 4 AA batteries. When the batteries are installed, the device is installed on the can, with the edges being between the blade and the gear. There is no need to hold the device, you just need to press the power button. During this time, the opener will be held securely on the can using a magnet. When the device goes through a full circle, it will automatically turn off.
The Kitchen Tools body is made of plastic, and the cutting element is made of stainless steel. The size of the device is 12*7 cm. To clean the opener, you can use a soft damp cloth. Washing the device is not allowed.
The average cost is 2500 rubles.
Kitchen Tools can opener
Advantages:
- Compact size;
- Ease of use;
- Automatic operation;
- Reliability.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Endever Smart-25
This model can be called a universal opener. With its help, you can not only open cans of any size, but also bottles with metal caps and sharpen knives. The body of the device is quite high, so you can place a jar of any size, while continuous cutting will occur and the lid will not have sharp edges. When the lid is completely open, the device will automatically turn off.
The size of "Endever Smart-25" is 11.2 * 9.8 * 22.5 cm, and weight is 750 grams. In this case, the device has a power of 70 W.
The average cost is 1000 rubles.
can opener Endever Smart-25
Advantages:
- Compact size;
- Sharp blade;
- Stylish design;
- There is a device for sharpening knives and opening bottles;
- Ease of use.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Popular tabletop appliances
Household models Tefal 8536 and Kenwood CO 600 are most often found in user reviews. Both desktop devices are similar in operating principle and differ slightly in design solutions and additional functions. The design of these electrical appliances is designed for quickly uncorking cans and bottles.
Electric opener Tefal 8536
Both devices are equipped with rubberized elements for stability on a horizontal surface and an automatic shut-off function.
The uncorking process will begin after fixing the can in the device (a special magnet is provided under the raised lever). The user only needs to press lightly on the lever for the device to start working. The power of the devices is 35 W for Tefal 8536 and 40 W for Kenwood CO 600, accordingly the prices vary: the first model can be bought for 800-1000 rubles, the second will cost from 1200 rubles. Some models of the CASO (D 10) and Tristar (BO-2102) brands with prices from 1300 to 3000 rubles are similar in principle of operation.
Electric opener Kenwood CO 600
All these devices are designed for cans that do not exceed their own weight (up to 1.2 kg). In everyday life, you usually rarely have to open jars with a larger capacity. For such canned food, bars and restaurants use professional tabletop machines, the cost of which is much higher.
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Varieties
There are several types of knives:
- Manual. Classic option. durable and cope with different types of work. The handles are made of plastic and wood, and knives should be used manually, so the openers cope with their functions most fully. There are models of hand knives equipped with wheels. Easy to use, but not always safe.
- Mechanical. Knives are popular in the food service industry. A professional knife quickly copes with a large number of cans. Features: the presence of a durable melanite shaft, durability, convenience and ease of disassembly.
- Automatic. No effort is required from a person; the knife literally does the job inside and out. The safe design and compactness make the device stand out among other types.
- Electrical. The most modern can openers. They cope with a huge amount of work in a matter of minutes. They are equipped with an electric motor, due to which the device operates from the network.
