Figuring Out How to Use a Can Opener: Tips & Tricks

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses various experiences and tips related to using a can opener, particularly the Pampered Chef Smooth-Edge Can Opener. Participants share personal anecdotes, instructional descriptions, and humorous takes on demonstrating its use to customers.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions a customer struggling to use the can opener and seeks advice on any tricks to help.
  • Another participant shares their method of explaining the can opener's use, emphasizing that it should be placed on the top of the can, not the side.
  • Several participants describe creative and humorous ways to demonstrate the can opener during shows, including playful analogies and gestures.
  • One participant notes that the can opener must be turned clockwise to function properly.
  • Some participants suggest searching for instructional videos on YouTube for visual guidance.
  • Another participant discusses the importance of demonstrating that the can opener leaves a smooth edge and how some users may not realize it has worked if the top of the can remains in place.
  • Several participants express surprise at discovering the can opener also has a bottle opener feature.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best methods for demonstrating the can opener, with no clear consensus on a single approach. Some participants share similar instructional techniques, while others offer humorous variations.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects personal experiences and anecdotes from consultants regarding customer interactions and demonstrations of the can opener, highlighting the varied approaches taken in different settings.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for creative ways to demonstrate the can opener during shows or those seeking to understand common customer challenges with the product may find this thread informative.

A
adge
Messages
11
I had a customer contact me telling me she can't figuire out how to use the can opener, i dont have one to try and see if I can figure it out. is there a trick to it?
 
This is what I tell my customers when using it...."it lays on the top of the can ... not the side like most! The 2 little wheels (that turn the can) have to be closed onto the top lip of the can, when you close the can opener you've "grabbed" the can (I shake it and show them how it doesn't come off). Once you turn it ...you'll feel it getting easier...use the little "beaks" to pull the lid off!!!"Hope this helps.....I've walked customers through this over the phone!!!
 
It goes on the top of the can, not the side. The description I use at shows is that it's a shark, and the fin (handle) goes on the top as it approaches its victim (the can).
 
Someone in my cluster uses this at her shows:

Okay ladies, now this is the adult's only portion of our show. When you get your new can opener and cannot remember how to use it, remember this...
(holding opener by the legs) Spread her legs....bump her up against the can...squeeze legs together gently...rotate, a little more rotation....just till you feel that pressure release...oh, yeah I felt it...then lift off" (as you lift off the lid):D
 
You have to turn it clockwise, it won't work if you are turning it counter clockwise.
 
search for videos on You Tube.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
thank you for the help
 
You can go to Consultant's Corner, click on Products & Recipes, then PC Products; Product Info, Use & Care, then name the product, and be sure to put the hyphen for: Smooth-Edge Can Opener. It shows the product features and has a line drawing of the can opener, and then walks you through the process. Ask your customer if they still have the Use and Care card that came with it. Ask them to read it to you while they do each step.

I remember getting a call from a car dealership where a gal had done a party for me.
One of the salesmen could not figure out how to make his work. I took a spare can
and my opener up to demo for them. What a laugh!
 
Last edited:
Here's a file I got from here or my director.....
 

Attachments

It has a bottle opener?!! Holy cow, learn something new everyday!
 
letscook04 said:
Someone in my cluster uses this at her shows:

Okay ladies, now this is the adult's only portion of our show. When you get your new can opener and cannot remember how to use it, remember this...
(holding opener by the legs) Spread her legs....bump her up against the can...squeeze legs together gently...rotate, a little more rotation....just till you feel that pressure release...oh, yeah I felt it...then lift off" (as you lift off the lid):D
Click to expand...

Too funny...don't think I could do this with a straight face!
 
I never knew it had a bottle opener either!
 
letscook04 said:
Someone in my cluster uses this at her shows:

Okay ladies, now this is the adult's only portion of our show. When you get your new can opener and cannot remember how to use it, remember this...
(holding opener by the legs) Spread her legs....bump her up against the can...squeeze legs together gently...rotate, a little more rotation....just till you feel that pressure release...oh, yeah I felt it...then lift off" (as you lift off the lid):D
Click to expand...


SORRY HAD TO LAUGH>>when I read this I said to myself this person MUST be form NY...(lived in NJ all my life and moved to VA a 1 1/2 yr ago, this would not fly at my shows in VA)
;)
 
letscook04 said:
Someone in my cluster uses this at her shows:

Okay ladies, now this is the adult's only portion of our show. When you get your new can opener and cannot remember how to use it, remember this...
(holding opener by the legs) Spread her legs....bump her up against the can...squeeze legs together gently...rotate, a little more rotation....just till you feel that pressure release...oh, yeah I felt it...then lift off" (as you lift off the lid):D
Click to expand...

I could see catching some flack it I said it that way.... :)
but I think I will use that at my next party... :D
 
A lot of the time people use it correctly to open the can but don't think it worked because the top of the can is still laying there undisturbed. I have heard of people opening several jars before calling consultants to say "My can opener doesn't work". When you demo it be sure to pull the top off the can and show them that it isn't sharp on the edges. This will hopefully help them to remember.
 
nancycookspc said:
SORRY HAD TO LAUGH>>when I read this I said to myself this person MUST be form NY...(lived in NJ all my life and moved to VA a 1 1/2 yr ago, this would not fly at my shows in VA)
;)
Click to expand...

Yes, the person is from NY! LOL
I have not used it my shows!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the basic steps to use a can opener effectively?

To use a can opener effectively, first, place the can on a stable surface. Open the can opener's handles and position the blade on the edge of the can's lid. Squeeze the handles together to puncture the lid, then turn the handle to rotate the blade around the can. Keep turning until you have cut all the way around the lid, then carefully lift the lid off.

How do I clean my can opener after use?

To clean your can opener, wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any food residue. For a deeper clean, you can wash it with warm soapy water. Make sure to dry it thoroughly to prevent rusting, especially if it’s a metal can opener.

What should I do if my can opener is stuck or difficult to turn?

If your can opener is stuck or difficult to turn, check to ensure that the blade is properly aligned on the can's edge. If it’s misaligned, reposition it and try again. If it still doesn’t turn smoothly, it may need lubrication; a drop of food-safe oil can help. If the problem persists, consider replacing the can opener.

Are there any safety tips for using a can opener?

Yes, always be cautious when using a can opener. Make sure your hands are dry to prevent slipping, and be careful of sharp edges on the can and lid after opening. Use a can opener with a comfortable grip to avoid straining your hands, and never attempt to open a can that is bulging or damaged, as this could indicate spoilage.

Can I use a can opener on different types of cans?

Most can openers are designed to work on standard metal cans, including those for vegetables, soups, and sauces. However, some can openers may not work well on pop-top cans or specialty cans like those with plastic lids. Always check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure compatibility with the types of cans you plan to open.

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