Using a can opener correctly comes down to one decision: whether you want a standard cut, a smooth rim, or hands-free operation, each type takes a different approach.
A can of beans shouldn’t require a wrestling match. Most people who struggle with a can opener are simply using it wrong — clamping it on the side instead of the lid, or rotating the wrong direction. The fix takes about ten seconds once you know the right position. Here are the three main types and the exact steps for each.
How to Use a Standard Manual Can Opener
Manual can openers use a cutting wheel that punctures the top of the lid. The key is positioning the wheel on the flat top surface of the can, not the curved side.
Step-by-step manual method:
- Open the arms to separate the cutting wheel from the feed wheel underneath.
- Position the cutting wheel on the top edge of the lid, not the side. The turning knob should face outward to your right.
- Squeeze the arms together until the wheel punctures the lid — you’ll feel resistance release.
- Turn the knob clockwise while steadying the can with your other hand. The feed wheel grips the lip and pulls the cutter around.
- Stop after one full rotation or leave a tiny segment uncut so the lid doesn’t drop into the food.
If the lid sinks into the contents, pry it out with a spoon or butter knife — never reach in with fingers. The inside rim is razor-sharp.
How to Use a Safety Can Opener
Safety openers cut the side of the can just below the lid rather than piercing the top. This leaves no sharp edges on the rim or the lid, which stays attached to the can.
Position the opener on the top rim so the blade runs parallel to the lid surface. Turn the knob and the device cuts the can’s side wall, separating the lid without ever puncturing it. The result is a smooth rim you can touch safely — useful if you’re pouring directly from the can or feeding kids.
How to Use an Automatic (Battery) Can Opener
Battery-operated openers do the rotation work for you but require one important manual step: stopping the rotation after one full revolution.
Insert four AA batteries with correct polarity. Place the opener on top of the can so the edge sits between the blade and the metal gear. Press the button — the unit travels around the can on its own. After one full rotation, press the button again immediately to stop. Letting it continue grinds metal shreds into the food and jams the mechanism.
| Opener Type | Where It Cuts | Edge Safety | Est. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Manual | Top of the lid | Sharp rim and lid | $5–$15 |
| Safety (Safecut style) | Side of the can below lid | No sharp edges | $10–$20 |
| Automatic/Battery | Top of the lid | Sharp rim and lid | $15–$30 |
Common Mistakes and Fixes
Clamping on the side of the can is the most frequent error. The cutting wheel needs the flat lid surface to puncture cleanly. If it catches on the curved edge, it slips or jams.
Angling the opener causes the same problem. Both wheels must sit perpendicular to the can’s side. A tilted opener skips rather than cuts.
Forcing an automatic opener beyond one rotation produces metal flakes. Stop immediately after the single revolution and lift the lid off manually. If the can is dented, the automatic opener may fail entirely — switch to a manual model instead.
If you are tired of cheap openers that jam or break after a few uses, our tested picks for the best can openers covers manual, safety, and automatic models that actually last.
FAQs
Does a can opener go on the top or the side?
A standard manual opener places the cutting wheel on the top flat surface of the lid. A safety opener clips onto the top rim but cuts the side of the can just below the lid. Clamping on the side of the can is the most common mistake.
Which way do you turn a manual can opener?
Turn the knob clockwise. The feed wheel grips the can’s lip and pulls the cutter around the lid. Some openers designed for left-handed use turn counterclockwise, but standard models rotate right.
Can you open dented cans with a can opener?
Automatic openers often fail on dented cans because the edge no longer sits flat between the blade and gear. A standard manual opener can usually handle light dents by carefully positioning the wheel on a flat section of the lid.
References & Sources
- Kitchn. “The Right Way to Use a Can Opener.” Covers manual and safety opener positioning and step sequences.
- Home Depot. “How to Use a Can Opener.” Provides safety notes, compatibility details, and battery-opener instructions.