Have you ever struggled to open a can with a standard can opener? If so, you may want to try using a smooth edge can opener. This can opener is designed to make opening cans easier, comfortable, and efficient. It features a smooth edge that won’t damage the lid or can.
A smooth edge can opener is a handheld utensil used to open metal cans. The smooth edge can opener has a blade that punctures the top of the can and a rotary wheel that turns the can so the blade can cut into the can’s lid.
To use a smooth edge can opener, it would be best to understand their purpose and review its features.
Different Types of Smooth Edge Can Opener
Before you learn how to use this kind of can opener, it is important to be familiar with the different types. There are two different types of smooth edges can openers in the market, but they all have similar basic features.
📌Manual Smooth Edge Can Opener
This model has a blade that punctures the top of the can and a rotary wheel that turns the can so the blade can cut into the can’s lid. It does not require any batteries or power source, making it a popular choice for those who are looking for an environmentally friendly option.
📌Electric Smooth Edge Can Opener
This can opener works the same as the manual type. However, it is powered by batteries or a power cord, making it ideal for those who want an easier way to open cans.
One of the users’ complaints about the electric can opener is that the blade doesn’t always puncture the can properly, making it difficult to open the can. Also, they need frequent battery changes, which could be a downside for some people.
How to Use Manual Smooth Edge Can Opener
Now that you know about the different types of smooth edge can openers, let’s learn how to use one. The following are the general steps on how to use this type of can opener:
🥫Open the arms of the can opener.
An excellent brand of this can opener type has a soft handle that enables you to grip the handle easily. Some brands have two parts of the handle, one that stays still and one that moves. To open the arms, you should push the arms away from the center of the can opener.
The can opener should be opened with the arms parallel to the countertop. It will ensure that the lid of the can opener is stable and will not cut your hand.
🥫Locate the small indentation on the top of the can lid.
The small indentation is where the blade on the can opener punctures the lid of the can. You may find it difficult to see at first, but you will be able to locate it easily with a little practice.
🥫Align the blade of the can opener with the indentation on the lid.
The smooth edge can opener has a curved portion. This portion is designed to fit the indentation on the lid. If it doesn’t fit properly, you can adjust it by turning the can opener slightly.
Make sure that the blade is perpendicular to the lid. If it’s not, it won’t be easy to pierce the can lid and open the can.
🥫Close the handle.
You need to close the handle after aligning the blade with the indentation for a smooth edge can opener with two arms. It will cause the blade to puncture the lid and start cutting through it. For a smooth edge can opener with one arm, you need to push down on the arm to puncture the can lid.
Make sure you keep your grip on the can opener handle.
🥫Turn the can opener knob clockwise.
After locking the can opener into the can lid, you can start opening it by turning the knob clockwise. The rotary wheel on the can opener will turn the can so the blade can cut into the lid.
Maintain your grip on the arms with one hand and use your other hand to turn the knob of the opener. It will ensure that the can opener doesn’t slip and cause an injury.
The can will turn around as you continue to twist the knob. When the can opener has cut around the lid, you will feel less resistance.
🥫Twist the knob counterclockwise.
When the can has completely rotated, and you feel little resistance, the can lid is ready to be opened. For some brands, the lid should come off easily without any resistance. If there is resistance, it means that you have not cut all the way around the lid.
But for some smooth edge can openers, you need to turn the knob counterclockwise to release the lid. You will know that the can opener is released when you don’t feel any resistance and the arms are open. Some people find it difficult to open the arms of the can opener. If this is the case, you can use a butter knife to pry open the arms.
How to Use Electric Smooth Edge Can Opener
The electric smooth edge can opener is very easy to use. Just make sure it contains enough batteries and is properly plugged in. Place the electric smooth edge can opener on top of the can. Then, make sure that the blade aligns with the lid’s indentation.
Press the power button, and the can opener will rotate the can. Keep your hand close to the can in case it falls off. When the can opener has cut around the lid, it will stop. You can now remove the lid from the can.
Some electric smooth edge can openers have a magnet that will hold the lid to the can opener. If your electric smooth edge can opener doesn’t have a magnet, you can use the arm to hold onto the lid and remove it from the can.
Benefits of Using Smooth Edge Can Opener
Smooth edge can openers offer an outstanding quality of life upgrade for those who have difficulties using traditional can openers. Traditional can openers have jagged edges, which can cause injuries, especially to those with limited hand mobility. Smooth edge can openers eliminate this problem and provide an easier opening experience.
Here are other benefits of using a smooth edge can opener.
✔Effortlessly opens cans
Smooth edge can openers are designed to effortlessly open cans. There is no need to apply a lot of pressure or use a lot of force. It is ideal for those with limited hand mobility or strength.
✔Eliminates sharp edges
When you use a traditional can opener, it leaves behind sharp edges on the can. It poses a safety hazard and can cause injuries. Smooth edge can openers eliminate this problem by leaving a smooth edge on the can.
✔Easy to store and hold
Smooth edge can openers are easy to store and hold. They usually come with a small handle which makes them easy to grip. It is ideal for those with limited storage space or who want a can opener that is easy to hold.
✔Can lid doesn’t fall into the can
When using a traditional can opener, the can lid often falls into the can. It makes it difficult to remove the lid and can be frustrating. Smooth edge can openers prevent the lid from falling into the can, making it easier to remove. Some models have magnets that hold the lid in place until you are ready to remove it.
✔Cordless design
Smooth edge can openers come in both manual and electric designs. The electric design is cordless, which makes it easy to use. You don’t have to worry about being close to an outlet or having a tangled cord. It makes smooth edge can openers ideal for those who want convenience and ease of use.
✔Plows through dents and creases
Smooth edge can openers are designed to plow through dents and creases on the lid. It makes it easier to open cans that have these imperfections. If you have a can with a dent or crease, a smooth edge can opener is the best option for opening it.
Things to Look for When Choosing Smooth Edge Can Openers
Photo Credits: Reviewed
These openers are an inexpensive and amazingly effective way to deal with opening cans. If you’re in the market for one or know someone who could benefit from this type of opener, there are a few things you should look for when choosing a smooth edge can opener.
📍Ease of use
Make sure the can opener is easy to use. The arms should open easily, and it should be easy to rotate the can. If it is difficult to open the arms or rotate the can, it will not be ideal for those with limited hand mobility.
📍Ergonomic design
The can opener should have an ergonomic design that makes it easy to hold. It should fit comfortably in your hand and have a small handle that is easy to grip. A smooth edge can opener should also be lightweight, so it’s easy to use.
📍Durable
The can opener should be durable and withstand normal wear and tear. It should also be able to withstand falls and being dropped. Moreover, it should be easy to clean to avoid building bacteria.
📍Magnetic lid holder
Some smooth edge can openers have a magnet that will hold the lid to the can opener. It is ideal for those who want an all-in-one solution.
📍Smooth cut
The cutter on the can opener should be smooth so that it doesn’t leave any jagged edges on the can. It is vital for safety reasons and will make it easier to open the can without any problems.
📍Reasonably priced
Smooth edge can openers are affordable and cost anywhere from $10 to $30. Choose the one that fits your needs and budget. People don’t mind paying more for a good quality product, but it should justify the price tag.
📍Electric or manual
There is electric and manual smooth edge can openers on the market. Choose the one that fits your needs and preferences. The electric can opener is cordless and easier to use, but the manual can opener is more affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are there any dangers of using a smooth edge can opener?
A: No. These can openers are just as safe as traditional can openers. It is much dangerous to use a sharp knife to open a can.
Q: Is it safe to use a smooth edge can opener around children?
A: There is no danger of using a smooth edge can opener around children. They are just as safe as traditional can openers. However, children should be supervised when using any can opener.
Q: Will this can opener work on soda pop and beer cans?
A: Yes, the smooth edge can opener will work on soda pop and beer cans. It can open all types of cans. But some models are only designed to remove lids from standard canned goods cans.
Q: How to clean the smooth edge can opener?
A: The best way to clean the smooth edge can opener is to use a damp cloth. Do not submerge it in water or put it in the dishwasher. You can also use a toothbrush to clean the nooks and crannies.
Q: Is the magnet on the can opener strong enough to hold the lid in place?
A: Yes. The magnet on the can opener is strong enough. The lid will not fall off when you are opening the can. However, some models have a weaker magnet. Make sure you check this before buying the can opener.
Q: How long should a smooth edge can opener last?
A: A smooth edge can opener should last for several years if you use it regularly. But, it may not last as long if it is not taken care of properly.
Final Thoughts
Can openers can be a lifesaver in the kitchen, especially when you have to open a lot of cans. Using a smooth edge can opener is pretty straightforward. All you need to do is fit the lip of the can opener around the top of the can lid and twist the knob. The arms of the opener will pierce the lid and open it. Be sure to hold on to the can opener so it doesn’t move around as you’re twisting.
Smooth edge can openers offer an easy opening experience and are ideal for those who have difficulty using traditional can openers. So, whether you’re a busy mom or someone just starting in the kitchen, a smooth edge can opener is a must-have tool.