There are various types of electric and manual can openers. Each type of can opener offers unique benefits, catering to different needs and preferences in the kitchen.
Electric Can Openers
Countertop Electric Can Opener:
Description: Typically a tall, free-standing appliance designed for regular kitchen countertops. It usually has a magnet to hold the lid and a lever to start the opening process.
Example: Hamilton Beach Smooth Touch Can Opener.
Shop Amazon – Click Here to browse Hamilton Beach can openers.
Handheld Electric Can Opener:
Description: Compact and portable, these openers are battery-operated and can be held directly over the can. They are easy to store and convenient for smaller kitchens.
Example: Kitchen Mama Electric Can Opener.
Shop Amazon – Click Here to browse Kitchen Mama Electric Can Openers.
Under-Cabinet Electric Can Opener:
Description: Mounted under a kitchen cabinet to save counter space. They offer the convenience of electric opening without taking up counter space.
Example: Black & Decker SpaceMaker Can Opener
Shop Amazon – Click Here to browse Black & Decker SpaceMaker Can Openers.
Side-Cutting Electric Can Opener:
Description: Cuts along the side of the can rather than the top, leaving a smooth edge that reduces the risk of injury.
Example: Cuisinart Deluxe Can Opener.
Shop Amazon – Click Here to browse Cuisinart Deluxe Can Openers.
There are various types of electric and manual can openers. Each type of can opener offers unique benefits, catering to different needs and preferences in the kitchen.
Manual Can Openers
Butterfly Can Opener:
Description: A traditional design with a rotating cutting wheel operated by a handle. It requires significant manual effort but is reliable and durable.
Example: OXO Good Grips Can Opener.
Shop Amazon – Click Here to browse OXO Good Grips Can Openers.
Safety Can Opener:
Description: Designed to remove the entire top of the can, leaving a smooth edge. They are often considered safer because they minimize sharp edges.
Example: Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Lid Lifter.
Shop Amazon – Click Here to browse Kuhn Rikon Auto Safety Lid Lifters.
Church Key Can Opener:
Description: A basic manual opener that punctures the can lid with a sharp, triangular blade. Often used for opening cans of juice or evaporated milk.
Example: Swing-A-Way Easy Crank Can Opener.
Shop Amazon – Click Here to browse Swing-A-Way Easy Crank Can Openers.
Side-Cutting Manual Can Opener:
Description: Similar to the side-cutting electric version, this manual type cuts along the side of the can. It often features a comfortable grip and a twist mechanism.
Example: ZYLISS Lock N’ Lift Can Opener.
Shop Amazon – Click Here to browse ZYLISS Lock N’ Lift Can Openers.
Lever-Type Can Opener:
Description: Features a lever and a rotating wheel that punctures the can. It requires some strength to operate but is straightforward and effective.
Example: EZ-DUZ-IT Deluxe Can Opener.
Shop Amazon – Click Here to browse EZ-DUZ-IT Deluxe Can Openers.
A little history about the evolution of can openers.
The first can opener was invented by Ezra Warner in 1858. Warner’s design gave improvement over previous methods, which often involved using chisels and hammers to open cans. His can opener featured a sharp, sickle-shaped blade and a guard to prevent the blade from penetrating too deeply. This design was adopted by the U.S. military during the Civil War, making it widely used and recognized.
However, the first widely successful household can opener was invented later, in 1870, by William Lyman. Lyman’s design used a rotating cutting wheel that was much more convenient for everyday use. This design became the basis for the modern can openers we use today.
In 1931, Udico (Union Die Castings Company) invented the first electric can opener. This early electric can opener was a freestanding appliance that was not widely adopted due to its complexity and cost.
The electric can opener became more popular and practical in the 1950s when advancements in design and technology made it more accessible and user-friendly. A key development was the introduction of countertop models with built-in motors and magnetic lid holders, which significantly improved the convenience and efficiency of the electric can opener.
