Seniors, people with weak hands and conditions, including arthritis, struggle to open a jar. Most of the time, they cannot open it because it’s just too tight. Food manufacturers do it to ensure food safety from contamination. For this reason, people with issues un-lidding bottles or jars keep dealing with the same problem. For some, they strain their wrist and develop a carpal tunnel. It’s a piece of great news that the best jar openers were designed and manufactured.
Their primary function is to un-lid or opens a bottle or jar. It also reduces your chances of acquiring an injury, developing a carpal tunnel, or breaking a jar. Using a jar opener, you can experience the convenience of opening a container, bottle, or jar.
In the following, we’ve compiled a list of jar openers, each having specific properties and features. We’ve also written a couple of pointers to remember when selecting a jar opener. Using this reference, you can choose the right jar opener for your needs.
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I. Our Top Picks for Jar Openers
Products & Features | Image & Price |
---|---|
1. Our #1 Pick: EZ Off Under Cabinet Jar Opener | |
2. Runner-Up: Hamilton Beach 76800 Open Ease Automatic Jar Opener | |
3. Kichwit Jar Opener Stainless Steel | |
4. OXO Good Grips Jar Opener | |
5. The G Grip Under Cabinet Opener | |
6. MEYUEWAL Jar Opener Multi Function with Silicone Handle | |
7. Kuhn Rikon Gripper Opener for Jar and Bottle | |
8. Swing-A-Way Comfort Grip Jar Opener | |
9. Brix JarKey Original Easy Jar Key Opener | |
10. Leifheit Extra Wide Stainless Steel Lid and Jar Opener | |
11. Robo Twist Electric Automatic Jar Opener |
II. What to Look for When Buying a Jar Opener?
Jar openers can reduce one’s chances of acquiring injuries and help one open a jar conveniently. However, they’re not the same as each other, as manufacturers design theirs differently, trying to improve their openers’ benefits. In the following, let’s talk about the things to check when comparing the different openers available.
Operation mode
You’ll find jar openers in different operation modes, including battery-powered, manual, and electric operated models.
The most basic of all is the manual opener, which comes with a gripping handle. It relies on a leverage mechanism that is used to un-lid a jar. You can count on it for hard to open lids, especially if you don’t mind doing it manually. It might be for you if you’re looking to save on electricity and battery. In this case, you don’t need to replace any battery.
But then, it might not be for those looking for commercial use jar openers because you might have to use them constantly. On the other hand, battery-operated ones can be for those not looking to add to their electricity bill.
Finally, you might want the electric-powered opener if you’re using it for commercial purposes in which you need more often. However, it will not run without a power supply.
Jars to open
There are openers specifically design for opening a specific jar or bottle type, but others are versatile to open different types. But then, take note that some openers have specific height and diameter range limits.
For example, if you’d opt for an opener to un-lid glass jars, you might not be able to open plastic jars or bottles with certain diameter range requirements might not be for you. For satisfaction, you must check the specifications on the types of jars that you can open with the jar opener you want to buy.
Quality and durability
These features have to do with the heavy-duty performance of the lid opener, which will be subject to high-stress levels. That’s why you need to check on the design material used in the construction of the opener. If possible, you might want to opt for those with a combination of materials, including stainless steel and plastic. But while plastic-only openers might seem more affordable, they might not last if frequently used.
Nevertheless, it will pay off to choose strong and quality materials, even if it’s plastic, ensuring it will last long to deliver the performance/torque it needs to un-lid your bottles/jars. For better results, you might want to spend more on a stainless-steel opener. It can last long and does not rust.
Size
You must also check on the size of the jar opener you’re buying to ensure that it will fit your kitchen or countertop space. Thus, you should check its exact size and determine if it can fit the space you allot for it. Also, size matters if you’re planning to transport it from one place to another.
Weight
Heavy openers can be inconvenient to use for people with health issues, including arthritis. In addition, they might find it hard to operate a heavy jar opener. So if you’re giving a jar opener as a gift for a senior parent or someone with weak hands, you might want to check for lightweight jar openers.
III. The 11 Best Jar Openers
1. EZ Off Under Cabinet Jar Opener
Do you have a loved one that has weak hands? Would you like to make their life easier? If you have a senior parent or a family member suffering from chronic pain, you might want to have this EZ jar opener in your kitchen. Under the cabinet, the opener is perfect for people with hand pain or weak hands to open a jar or a bottle.
One of the things I liked about the opener is that it can easily store under the cupboard or a cabinet. It will not take much space in your kitchen, so you can forget that you have it. Besides, this model also opens all lid sizes effortlessly, holding any lid and opening it quickly. Whether the lid is childproof or factory-sealed, it can work well.
However, it can be tricky to use for first-timers, but it will not take a long time to become familiar with it. So check it out for a versatile, durable, and quality jar opener.
Pros
- Space-saving under the cabinet model
- Easy operation
- Ideal for people with weak grips
- Opens all lid sizes
- Quick installation
Cons
- Can be tricky to use for the first time
2. Hamilton Beach 76800 Open Ease Automatic Jar Opener
The Hamilton Beach 76800 is very easy to use because it’s an automatic opener that doesn’t require much effort on your end. One of the things remarkable is its easy push-button opening, matching users who might really find it hard to un-lid jars. Especially if your senior parent is living alone, this opener makes an excellent gift that will improve their lives. In addition, it is easy to store and can fit even a small space. You can also hide it away in a drawer when not in use. Finally, there is also no too tall jar for it.
Despite the ease of use, some people, especially seniors, might struggle to open pre-packaged ingredients not available in a can. But then, I find it one of the most valuable choices around for its design, build, and performance. I will certainly recommend it for anyone looking for a heavy-duty kitchen gadget.
Pros
- Push-button opening
- Compact and easy to store
- Versatile for a wide range of jars
- Heavy-duty performance
- Clear instructions
Cons
- People with weak hands might not open a jar quickly with this jar opener.
3. Kichwit Jar Opener Stainless Steel
This Kichwit jar opener is another consideration for its performance and convenience. The bottle opener is not hard to operate because it can open lids and bottles effortlessly. Also, the bottle opener is with features, including rust resistance. In this case, you don’t need to deal with the frustration of replacing it soon. Thanks to that, it is made with stainless steel, known for keeping its original appearance for a long time without developing any rust or corroding.
This model can open lid diameters between one and 3.7 inches in diameter, making it versatile for a wider range of applications. Finally, it can last for a long time because it’s made of a hard plastic and stainless-steel combination.
However, it’s not suitable for large lids but small and medium lids only. But overall, kudos to its performance and design. I liked its easy operation and rust resistance, which are essential for user satisfaction.
Pros
- Includes a keychain
- Compact and space-saving
- Ideal as a gift
- Rust-resistant stainless steel
- Easy twist opening
Cons
- Only for small and medium lids
4. OXO Good Grips Jar Opener
The OXO brand is trusted for versatile jar openers, making the opening of jars with varying sizes easier than before. The jar opener is designed with a base pad, keeping the opener in place while you’re opening it. This element in the design reduces hand straining and force in opening the jar. I am also impressed by its stainless-steel teeth grip, making it even more convenient to open a lid.
Now, you or your loved ones do not need to ask for help for hard to un-lid jars. This tool is a handy solution around for ease of bottle or jar opening. Check it out for yourself.
On the cons, this gadget is not totally dishwasher-safe because its base pad needs hand washing. But, overall, this jar opener is one of the highly recommended items in the category for its n0n-slip grip and compact size and design.
Pros
- Affordable and durable
- Non-slip grip
- Sharp stainless-steel teeth grip
- Easy operation
- Designed with a base pad
Cons
- Not totally dishwasher safe
5. The G Grip Under Cabinet Opener
The Grip is one of the leaders among lid opener manufacturers. It’s been around since 1977 and, from then, has provided customers with peace of mind and satisfaction with the quality and easy-to-use lid openers. It is also compact and space-saving to keep it in the cupboard or under the cabinet when not in use.
I also liked that this item can open a wide range of lids from small to large, improving its functionality and performance. If you have a senior parent or someone with arthritic hands at home, you might also want this kitchen gadget to make jar opening easier for them.
On the cons, this item might not be the most durable around for its quite flimsy parts. But overall, you will love this gripping opener that can open even large lids. It also offers quick installation and operation.
Pros
- Space-saving and high-performance
- Quick installation
- Effortless opening of lids
- Ideal for seniors and weak hands
- Can open even large lids
Cons
- Not the most durable pick around
6. MEYUEWAL Jar Opener Multi-Function with Silicone Handle
This can opener does more than what you can expect from it. The MEYUEWAL opener is a 5-in-1 can opener that you can use in opening a wide range of lid sizes. The multi-function opener can open different bottle tops, caps, and bean cans. It is designed with two pieces of bottle openers, and that is what makes it an ideal choice for busy kitchens.
Another thing to look forward to choosing this product is its ergonomics, a feature improving ease of use and performance. For example, this model has a firm grip between the lid and opener, and the nonslip handles can ensure injury prevention.
However, there were reports about it not coming with instructions, but this product is overall a top-rated category. It is versatile and offers a wide range of applications not to find in other products. Finally, I liked its portability and lightweight design that improves performance.
Pros
- 5-in-1 opener
- Skid-proof design to stay in place
- Easy operation and opening
- Can remove more lids and caps
- Lightweight and compact
Cons
- No instructions based on some reports
7. Kuhn Rikon Gripper Opener for Jar and Bottle
If you’re looking for a lightweight and compact gripper opener for your home, you should check out this item. Based on the research we’ve compiled, we found out that it’s a top-rated product for many consumers worldwide, and we checked why.
To reduce straining in jar opening, you should include this item on your list because it can reduce strain on your part. One thing that makes it possible is its excellent leverage effect. I would also like to recommend it for convenience in opening grooved and smooth-sided caps. Moreover, I find it useful that it’s easy to store, so I can hide it away under the cabinet when not in use.
However, it’s not dishwasher safe. As a result, it might turn off some people looking for ease of cleaning up. But then, I believe it’s not much of a problem if you’d check the benefits that this item can offer, including quality materials and heavy-duty performance.
Pros
- Reduces strain
- Clear instructions
- Works on grooved or smooth caps
- Promotes easy jar opening
- Ideal as a gift to seniors and people with arthritic hands
Cons
- Not dishwasher-safe
8. Swing-A-Way Comfort Grip Jar Opener
This jar opener is another top-of-the-line product not to miss when comparing different jar openers available. One thing about this item is that it is comfortable to grip, and there is no hassle at all using it. Also, the Swing-A-Way opener is durable and heavy-duty, making it suitable for busy kitchens, too.
I also liked that it has a comfortable grip to ensure better handling. The handles are also good, even for people with small hands.
However, it might not be suitable for large lids, though. Still, it is an excellent choice because of its all-steel construction. It can also open jars quickly, making it useful for seniors and people suffering from hand pain.
Pros
- All-steel construction
- Easy and smooth operation
- Can open jars easily
- Quick to clean
- Can open different lid sizes
Cons
- It might not be suitable for large lids
9. Brix JarKey Original Easy Jar Key Opener
The jar pop gadget shouldn’t be missed when shopping around for an excellent jar opener that performs and stays at top peak condition for a longer time. Plus, it is a sweet gift for someone with weak grips or a senior, so you might want to consider it if you’re finding a similar product that works in the same manner.
It feels and looks quite flimsy, though, but still is the number one choice for people looking for a lightweight and portable jar opener. You can take it with your outdoor trips because you can easily put it in your backpack and picnic basket. This item is also easy to use and has a simple design, ideal for people with carpal tunnel or arthritis.
Pros
- Easy to use even on vacuum-sealed jars
- Durable and made of robust materials
- Wide diameter range
- Compact and lightweight
- Promotes easy storage
Cons
- Feels flimsy
10. Leifheit Extra Wide Stainless Steel Lid and Jar Opener
The Leifheit 03131 black and silver lid opener is another top-of-the-line item available for its reliability and performance because it can open different lid sizes. It is a reliable jar opener that works perfectly to open stubborn vacuum-sealed or child-proof jars. I also liked that it’s made of quality materials, yet it’s not expensive.
However, it’s not for people with small hands, though, as it can be too wide to operate for them. But, overall, this kitchen utensil is one of the best choices around for bottles, jars, and tubes. Thanks to its easy and ergonomic design, it can also make it easier to pop open different jars.
Pros
- Rust-proof stainless-steel material
- Multifunctional opener
- Wide-set handles
- Wide gripping teeth
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Not for small hands
11. Robo Twist Electric Automatic Jar Opener
Are you looking for an automatic opener to reduce the hassle of opening different kinds of jars? Check out the Robo Twist 1014. It is one of the most popular openers available now because it is easy to adjust. That said, you can change its settings to fit the size of the jar that you want to open. So, if you think of it, this item made it to what you might be looking for in performance, not just strength.
It is tricky to use for first-timers, but then, it can offer a firm grip around any lid and is easy to operate. This item is also lightweight and compact and one of the easiest to use. Check out if these features sound cool for you.
Pros
- One of the easiest to use around
- Compact and lightweight
- Versatile to open different jar
- Easy to operate
- Can offer a firm grip around any lids
Cons
- It can be tricky to use the first time
IV. FAQs
What is a jar opener, and how does it work?
A jar opener is a simple kitchen gadget or device that works with a gripper to un-lid jars and containers. However, they do not have the same diameter range and height capacities, so you need to compare your options on these products before adding them to the cart to meet your expectations. But in many cases, it is easy to use that you only need to place it on the lid and in the correct size, allowing you to turn it around to open the sale. For some, you might have to pull the seal with the lid opener. But then, its workings can vary from one model to another. Check for specific instructions based on what you bought.
What are the different types of jar openers?
The different types of jar openers include battery-operated, electric-operated, and manual openers. They also vary in design that you can compare and check using our reviews earlier. Some are made of plastic; others are made of carbon steel or stainless steel, or a combination.
How to use a jar opener?
Just as mentioned, it varies from model to model. Generally, though, you just need to twist to open the jar. Hold the opener by its handle, and wedge its teeth grip onto the lid before twisting open. Again, check the instruction manual or online guides for specific directions based on the item’s model you bought.
How to make a jar opener?
You don’t have to make one because this simple machine is available at affordable prices. Also, it can be quite dangerous to improvise on this gadget, for it might cause an injury for a mistake in design and composition. But if you’re willing to spend the time on a DIY project, I found this tutorial useful.
How to open a jar without a jar opener?
There are several ways to open a lid without a jar opener, and a few include breaking the vacuum seal and running the lid under hot water. You can also wrap the lid in a rubber glove or a dishtowel. You can try these tricks to open a lid if you don’t have a jar opener. But of course, it is still best to use a jar opener that can promote ease of use and reduce straining. It is also valuable if you have a senior parent or someone with weak hands.
Where to buy a jar opener?
You can find these jar openers in many places, including online shops and marketplaces. Popular options include eBay and Amazon. Alternatively, you can check them out on the manufacturers’ websites, too. But if you liked to see the product’s actual size and features, you can also go to home depot and improvement stores in your community. You can also visit Walmart and other places selling kitchen tools and gadgets. Nevertheless, you will not run out of choices in finding an excellent jar opener for your needs.
V. Conclusion
The best jar openers are some of the latest product innovations to have in your kitchen. Especially if you have a senior parent or a family member with chronic pain, arthritic or weak hands, or another condition, you should invest in this kitchen tool. It is a must-have that can reduce the stress that they must put on their palm. They’re convenient and reliable that they can last long. More so, they’re effective and safe to open any sealed containers, whether glass or plastic. Use our buying guide for the most recommended jar openers available to get started in the selection process. Then, buy a multi-function jar opener today!