A manual can opener is a surprisingly effective tool for opening tough plastic packaging.
Many of us have struggled with the frustration of impenetrable plastic packaging, especially those clamshell designs. While scissors are often the first tool we reach for, they can be ineffective and even dangerous. Here's a better method:
Using a Manual Can Opener
A manual can opener offers a controlled and relatively safe way to tackle these packages:
- Position the Can Opener: Place the cutting wheel of the can opener on the outer edge of the plastic packaging.
- Bite Down: Squeeze the handles of the can opener to allow the cutting wheel to "bite" into the plastic.
- Rotate and Slice: Rotate the can opener along the edge of the packaging, allowing the wheel to slice through the plastic layers. You might need to readjust the can opener's position as you go.
- Repeat as Necessary: Continue around the perimeter until you've cut through enough of the packaging to open it.
Why This Works
The sharp, rotating wheel of a manual can opener is designed to cut metal, but it can also slice through the plastic used in clamshell packaging far more easily than standard scissors. It also offers a more controlled cutting action, reducing the risk of slips and injuries.
