To open an old paint can, the most common and effective method involves using a tool designed for this purpose or a readily available household item like a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the lid off.
Old paint cans can be tricky to open because the paint may have dried around the rim, effectively sealing the lid. The key is to work your way around the lid, lifting it little by little.
Tools for Opening Paint Cans
You generally have a couple of options when it comes to tools for opening paint cans.
1. Paint Can Opener
These tools, often provided by paint stores, have a small lip designed specifically to hook under the edge of the paint can lid.
- How to use: Insert the lip of the tool under the edge of the lid and gently lift up. Work your way around the entire circumference of the lid, repeating the lifting action until the lid is loose enough to remove.
2. Flathead Screwdriver
As mentioned in the reference, a flathead screwdriver is a common alternative that most people have on hand. The concept is the same as using a dedicated paint can opener.
- How to use: Place the tip of the flathead screwdriver under the lip of the paint can lid. Gently lift or pry up slightly. Move the screwdriver a couple of inches around the rim and repeat the process. Continue working your way around the entire lid, applying gentle pressure upwards, until the seal is broken and the lid can be lifted off.
This is what they'll give you at a paint store it has a little bit of a lip. And it's the same concept just right here lifting up but we all probably have a flathead screwdriver.
Other Options (Use with Caution)
While dedicated tools are best, in a pinch, you might consider:
- Putty Knife: A stiff putty knife can sometimes be used similarly to a flathead screwdriver, but be careful not to bend or damage the knife.
- Coin (Large): A large, sturdy coin can sometimes be used to lever up a corner, though this is often less effective and harder on your hand.
Steps for Opening a Difficult Old Paint Can
- Gather your tools: Choose a paint can opener or a flathead screwdriver.
- Protect your workspace: Lay down a drop cloth or newspaper to catch any spills.
- Position the tool: Place the tip of your chosen tool under the lip of the lid, near the outer edge.
- Apply gentle leverage: Lift or pry the handle of the tool slightly upwards. Don't use excessive force, as this can bend the lid or the rim of the can.
- Work your way around: Move the tool a short distance (about 1-2 inches) around the rim and repeat the lifting action.
- Repeat: Continue this process systematically around the entire lid. You should hear small popping sounds as the seal breaks.
- Lift the lid: Once you have gone all the way around, the lid should be loose enough to lift off. You might need to pry one last section if it's still sticking.
- Clean the rim: After opening, wipe the rim of the can clean to make future opening easier and ensure a better seal when you close it.
Summary of Tools
| Tool Type | Description | How it Works | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paint Can Opener | Dedicated tool with a curved lip | Hooks under lid, lever up | Designed for this purpose, often free. |
| Flathead Screwdriver | Common household tool | Inserts under lid, pry up gently | Versatile, effective alternative. |
Opening old paint cans requires patience and gentle, consistent pressure around the rim rather than forcing one spot. This technique minimizes the risk of bending the can or spilling paint.
