Can openers come in different categories, and as time goes on, we see new products from manufacturers. The whole point of innovation is making life simpler and more convenient — and it should actually work that way. Using the right can opener will save you from headaches, especially when you’re rushing to get dinner on the table, whether you go with a manual or electric model.

When it comes to using a can opener, you need to know how to operate it properly. This is especially true if you’re using one of the best electric can opener models available. Here’s how to use different types of can openers, including electric ones.

Manual can opener— Knowing the parts of a can opener is important. If you look at a typical can opener, it might look pretty simple . But you should understand how each part works. It has several components you should familiarize yourself with. The main parts are the levers that grip the can opener body and the cutting wheel. With the manual type, you have to turn the wheel yourself to cut through the can lid.

Electric can opener— there are many can openers to choose from, and finding the best electric can opener makes kitchen tasks much easier. If you don’t know how to use it, start by reading the instruction manual and double-check that you’re doing everything correctly. When you buy one, I recommend asking the store clerk about the product details so you can use your electric can opener without any problems. Here’s how to operate an electric can opener.

1. Lift the cutter head— position the can properly before cutting the top. This step is important for making clean cuts without messing up the canned food inside. You want to make sure that no metal shavings fall into the can while you’re opening it.

2. Press it down— once you have the can in position, press down to start opening the can. This makes the process faster since the opener will start rotating automatically.

3. Magnet and catch— now the electric can opener grabs the can lid with its magnet, and you can lift the lever slightly to get the right setting for opening the can top.