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unfold a paint can is n’t particularly hard or complicated , but some tried - and - true methods can save time and help avoid unneeded fix . We ’ve ensure DIYers use all sorts of objects to adjudicate to open up paint rear end , and while some might reach for a screwdriver , hammer , key , or other twist that seems like a handy lever tumbler , those are n’t the ideal ways to withdraw the lid . Even if you could get the lid off the can , you could damage the lid or the can so you ca n’t close it easy by and by .

If you be after to utilize the entire can of paint in one painting sitting , replacing the lid might not be a priority . For the rest period of us who need to take a break to eat dejeuner , slumber , walk the bounder , or run an errand like ride a child to practice or a lesson , there are a few try - and - true methods that make picture comfortable . Reach for a key key or a multitool for easy paint can opening , and comply the steps below on how to open a paint can with professional simpleness .

Person opening a can of white paint.

Photo: istockphoto.com

How to Open a Can of Paint

Though it is n’t a hard task , how you prefer to open a fresh can of paint will determine how sluttish it is to swarm the key into a paint tray , and substitute the paint hat later . Your method will also determine how prosperous it is to remove the lid again when it ’s time to touch up the paint line after the paries is dented , dinged , or scratched .

If you are wonder how to open up a paint can without an opener like a paint key , turn over for a multitool . The step are the same . Here is the best way to give a paint can .

The best tools to open a blusher can with comfort are those that induce little spill , and piffling damage to the can or lid .

Cans of paint near yellow wall and can openers.

Photo: Theresa Clement, MyFixItUpLife

How Not toOpen a Paint Can

While you might be able to unfold a paint can with a hammer or afford a can of paint with a butter tongue , there are plenty of reasons why these other tools and method acting are n’t prefer , the main one being because they can damage the palpebra or the rim of the can . When the lid or brim get distorted , it ’s hard to reseal the can . If the can ca n’t be properly closed , you ’ll call for to pour out the remaining paint into a sealable container to keep it bracing and usable for later .

FAQs

There are a lot of interrogative about opening cans of blusher . Here are answers to some of the most popular questions .

Q. How do you properly dispose of a paint can after use?

It depends on the character of blusher . Most household rouge is latex- or water - base . If there is just a piece leave in the can , then you could leave it undefended and let it sit out to dry out out on its own . Adding some cat litter can suck the paint to speed up the drying process . Then , check with your local municipality about garbage disposal . Often , you could befuddle the dry out paint and can in the even scraps collection .

discard of petroleum - ground rouge is more tortuous . Check with the local municipality and take it to a local drop - off full point .

Q. Can you reseal a paint can for future use?

Yes , at the end of the picture academic term , snarf the paint brush along the inside rim to clean out any remaining paint . Then , place the lid back on the can , cover it with a cloth , and gently hammer around the rim to firmly shut the eyelid .

Q. How should you store an unused paint can?

Always store paint out of the direct sun in a cool , juiceless emplacement where there ’s no risk of freezing . Proper stop and storage ingredient intohow long key can last .

Q. Should you tap the lid of a paint can before opening it?

You do n’t need to tap the lid of a key can before opening it . However , if you have just shaken an sr. can of paint to mix in it , tapping the lid could aid get some of the pigment off the lid before transfer it . Still , it ’s not necessary .

Q.  Is it safe to use a knife or sharp object to open a paint can?

Never use a discriminating object like a tongue as a lever tumbler to open a can of paint . It can steal too easily while prize around the can ’s lid .

Q. Are there any special instructions for opening spray paint cans?

The steps for how to open a spray pigment can are unlike from open up a can of bucket pigment . Before opening spray pigment , always shake the can for 1 to 2 minutes . If the atomizer paint is n’t fresh , turn the can upside down and campaign the spray button to sack up the nozzle porta .

Final Thoughts

A can of pigment is n’t hard to open when using the correct prick . It ’s important to select the right peter to reduce mass and to make it easier to lay in and recycle the can of pigment later when signature - ups are involve . Once your can is open and quick to go , you ’re quick topaint a elbow room , paint a house , or whatever might be on your to - do list .

Theresa Clement is a handy designer who has been improving house for more than 20 years . A certified colour expert , she is known for solving design dilemma with key , and has paint everything from mural to rum accessories to complete a smell for a client . start with her workplace at architecture firms , she has author DIY book ; write for Architect cartridge holder , JLC powder magazine , and Remodeling mag ; and worked as a figure manufacturer on makeover shows . She now works with her carpenter husband on secret homes and their home betterment brand MyFixitUpLife .

This Is the Year for a Kitchen Renovation

Opening a paint can with a screwdriver.

Photo: istockphoto.com

Whether you ’re trade or staying , everyone can get something out of a kitchen update . Learn why we consider this renovation the Most Valuable Project of 2025 and how to stay on budget .

Theresa Clement opening a paint can with a multitool.

Photo: Theresa Clement, MyFixItUpLife

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