Learn how to clean your can opener quickly and easily! Whether you have a manual or electric can opener, it’s important to keep your kitchen tools clean and germ-free!
A can opener is one of the most essential kitchen tools you have in your kitchen, but have you ever stopped to think about when the last time you cleaned it was? The truth is, can openers can harbor a lot of germs and grime, especially if they are not cleaned properly.
While it may not be the most exciting task on your to-do list, taking the time to clean your manual or electric can opener can go a long way in keeping your kitchen hygienic and your food safe. Below are the general guidelines for cleaning your can opener, whether it’s a manual or electric model!
How to Clean a Can Opener
Manual Can Openers
For manual can openers, the best way to clean them is to use warm, soapy water and a dish brush. Start by soaking the can opener in warm, soapy water for about 5 minutes. This will help loosen any stuck-on food or grime. Then, use a dish brush to scrub the cutting wheel and the sides of the blade. Be sure to get into all the tight spaces, where germs and food residues can hide. Rinse the can opener thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a clean towel.
Electric Can Openers
For electric can openers, unplug the device and wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any surface dirt and grime. If there is any stuck-on food, you can use a soapy toothbrush to gently scrub the cutting blade and the feed wheel. If the blade is dull or there are rust spots, you can remove those easily! No need to buy a new one! You can extend the life of your can opener by cleaning the rust with white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or a water and baking soda paste.
It’s a good idea to clean the electrical can opener after every use to keep it in good condition. If you have an older electric opener, you can also use a drop of mineral oil on the cutting wheel to keep it working smoothly.
Deep-Cleaning Method
If you haven’t cleaned your can opener in a while and there is a lot of grime and food residues, you may want to try a deep-cleaning method. For this, you will need warm soapy water, a dish brush or an old toothbrush, white vinegar, and a layered piece of paper towel or a piece of wax paper.
First, soak the can opener in warm, soapy water for about 10 minutes to loosen any stuck-on food or grime. Then, use a dish brush to scrub the cutting wheel and the sides of the blade. Make sure to get into all the tight spaces, where germs and food residues can hide.
Next, take a layered piece of paper towel or a sheet of wax paper and wrap it around the cutting wheel. Gently rotate the cutting wheel back and forth to remove any excess gunk and bits of food residues that might be in the wheels of the can opener. Repeat this process until the cutting wheel is clean.
Finally, rinse the can opener thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a clean towel.
How to Clean Rust from a Can Opener
If there are rust spots, no need to buy a new can opener! You can extend the life of your can opener by cleaning the rust with white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or a water and baking soda paste. You can use a tablespoon of bleach mixed with water to disinfect them.
Just make sure to rinse the can opener thoroughly after using the bleach solution and dry it thoroughly to prevent rust from forming again. Peroxide will also disinfect and make your can opener less germy!
One of the best ways to prevent rust from forming on your can opener is to always dry it before putting it away. You don’t want to run it in the dishwasher either. It’s tempting since the traditional can opener fits easily, but the moisture and excess water will make your can open rust super fast! Unfortunately, I’m speaking from experience!
Maintenance of Your Can Opener
Now that you know how to clean your can opener, it’s important to keep it in good condition to extend its life and prevent the spread of bacteria. Here are some tips for keeping your can opener germ-free:
- Clean your can opener after every use, or at least once a week.
- Use a good quality dishwashing detergent
- Store your can opener properly: After using your can opener, make sure to store it in a dry place. Avoid storing it near sources of heat or moisture, which can cause rust and other damage.
- Lubricate moving parts: If your can opener has any moving parts, such as the wheels or the trigger mechanism, it’s a good idea to lubricate them periodically. You can use a few drops of food-grade mineral oil to keep these parts moving smoothly.
- Check the cutting blade: The cutting blade of your can opener is one of its most important parts. Make sure it’s always sharp and free of rust spots. If the blade is dull or rusty, consider replacing it with a new one to ensure smooth and safe operation.
In conclusion, cleaning your can opener is an important task that should not be overlooked. By following the general guidelines mentioned above, you can ensure the longevity and cleanliness of your manual or electric can opener.
A clean can opener will not only make your kitchen look better but will also help prevent the spread of bacteria and other germs. So, the next time you open a can of tomato puree, take a moment to give your can opener a good look and a good cleaning. Happy can opening!
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