Read on for explanations of all three methods!Ī note of warning: The edges of any can are sharp under the best circumstances. In that situation, the flat surface of a rock can work. Play icon The triangle icon that indicates to playīut let's say you really have no tools: Perhaps you're cooking up some campfire recipes, and you forgot all but the most basic and flimsy cooking gear. If that doesn't work, or you want to open a can a little quicker, then our second-best recommendation is to use the heel (not the point!) of a chef's knife blade. You can do this by rubbing it with a metal spoon using the instructions below.

If you have a little time, we'd say the easiest (and safest) way to open a can without a can opener is by wearing down the edges of the lid until it breaks. Most utensils (knives, spoons, even forks) are stronger and thicker, and you only need an object that is a little bit stronger to pierce the surface. The important thing to remember is that the lid of a can is actually a very thin piece of metal, and that metal is made to be opened. Thankfully there are plenty of ways to open a can with common household items.

If you really need to get into that can-and going to the store to buy a can opener isn't an option-what do you do? What to do? You could give up and see what the local takeout options are. Has this ever happened to you? You're at some crazy Airbnb getting ready to open up a can (maybe you're making one of these canned tuna recipes) when you discover that the kitchen doesn't have a can opener-and no one remembered their Swiss Army knife.

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