How to Open a Difficult Jar

Sealed shut!
Sealed shut!


Following these steps, even arthritic or small hands can open a jar with ease. Jars are under a vacuum; if you break the vacuum and let air in then they are much easier to open.

Steps   [edit]

  1. Take a teaspoon and put the point of the spoon under the edge of the jar.
  2. Push down with the spoon so the back of the bowl of the spoon is against the jar. The seal should break, you may hear a 'pop' sound.
  3. Screw jar lid open.

Alternate Method   [edit]

  1. Wrap the jar with a cloth, leaving the edge of the metal lid exposed.
  2. Holding the jar at 45 degrees to the horizontal, strike the side of the lid against a hard surface. For example, do this n the floor, at intervals all around its circumference. If this is not feasible, try using the back of a table knife to strike the corner of the metal lid.
  3. Find something to grip the jar with. Use a damp cloth or wear some rubber gloves when trying to open it.
  4. Place your palm on the top of the lid and apply pressure, then twist it round with your whole hand.
  5. Keep a firm grip on the jar. This is because you don't want the insides all over the table/floor.


Tips   [edit]

  • Sometimes the spoon won't work and you can use an old fashioned soda bottle (beer bottle) opener to break the seal.
  • Using a dish towel or a rubber gripper will also help you get a good grip to open the jar.
  • If the spoon just won't work, try a hitting around the lid of the jar with a butter knife.
  • Try running hot water over the lid before opening.
  • The problem is often caused by a partial vacuum inside the jar, leading to air pressure preventing the lid being removed. This vacuum is made worse by refrigerating the jar, so try to open the jar before refrigerating.
  • There are a lot of tools and machines that open jars for you! Browse the Internet or look through a cooking shop to find one!