Last Updated on January 26, 2026 by Susanna Zuyeva
Our Top Picks
After testing these jar openers for two weeks, here are my top choices:
Best Overall: HUMANFUN 5-in-1 Multi-Function Jar Opener – The most versatile option I tested. Works on everything from pickle jars to soda bottles.
Best Value: Otstar Black and Red Jar Opener – Under $8 and gets the job done. Perfect if you want something simple.
Best Premium: Otstar 6-in-1 Set with Gripper Pad – Comes with extra tools like a corkscrew. Great if you need multiple openers.
Our Expertise
I’m a home cook who also helps my 78-year-old mother with her daily tasks. She has arthritis in both hands. Opening jars became so hard for her that she stopped buying her favorite pickles and jams.
I decided to test different jar openers to find ones that actually work. I didn’t just open one jar and call it done. I tested each opener on 15 different containers over two weeks.
I opened pickle jars, peanut butter, spaghetti sauce, medicine bottles, and soda cans. I tested them when my hands were dry and when they were wet from washing dishes.
This guide shares what I learned. I’ll tell you what works and what doesn’t.
Why You Need a Good Jar Opener
Let me be honest. I never thought I needed a jar opener. I could twist any lid with my bare hands.
Then I watched my mom struggle. She couldn’t open her medicine bottle. She had to wait for me to visit.
That’s when I realized how important these tools are.
If you have arthritis, weak grip strength, or hand pain, a jar opener changes everything. You don’t have to ask for help. You don’t have to skip foods you love.
These tools give you back your independence.
What I Looked for When Testing
I wanted jar openers that actually work. Not tools that look good but fail when you need them.
Here’s what I tested:
Grip strength – Does it grip the lid firmly?
Ease of use – Can someone with weak hands use it?
Size range – Does it fit different lid sizes?
Build quality – Will it last more than a few uses?
Comfort – Does it hurt your hands?
Storage – Can you store it easily in a kitchen drawer?
I gave each opener a real-world test. No special conditions. Just normal kitchen use.
The 3 Best Jar Openers I Tested
Let me share my detailed findings on each product.
1. HUMANFUN 5-in-1 Multi-Function Jar Opener Set
My Rating: 9.5/10
This set became my favorite during testing. It comes with three pieces that handle almost any opening task.
Product Features
The set includes a 4-in-1 jar opener, a 5-in-1 bottle opener, and a rubber gripper pad.
The jar opener has multiple circular openings. Each opening fits a different lid size. The handle is long and easy to grip.
The bottle opener has five different functions. It opens bottle caps, soda cans, and pull-tab containers.
The rubber pad helps you grip smooth lids. It’s textured on both sides.
All pieces are made from durable plastic with rubber grips. They come in blue, green, or red.
What I Like
The long handles give you great leverage. I didn’t need to use much strength.
The non-slip rubber works even when wet. I tested this after washing dishes. My hands were damp, but the opener still gripped the lid.
It opens so many different containers. From tiny medicine bottles to large pickle jars.
The set is lightweight. My mom can use it without her hands getting tired.
Storage is easy. There’s a hole in each tool. You can hang them on hooks.
Why It’s Better
Most jar openers only do one thing. This set does everything.
I compared it to a basic single-function opener. The basic one only opened medium-sized jars. The HUMANFUN set opened 14 out of 15 containers I tested.
The rubber pad is a game-changer. When the circular openers couldn’t fit a lid, I used the pad. It worked every time.
The 5-in-1 bottle opener saved me so much frustration. Opening soda cans with the pull tab became easy. No more broken nails.
How It Performed
I started with a stubborn pickle jar. The lid was vacuum-sealed and super tight.
I placed the circular opening over the lid. I turned it clockwise. The lid broke free in two seconds.
Next, I tried a small medicine bottle. The lid was tiny and smooth. The smallest circular opening fit perfectly. Easy twist. Done.
I tested it on a spaghetti sauce jar that had been in my fridge for a week. Those lids get stuck from dried sauce. The opener gripped it firmly and twisted it off.
The bottle opener performed just as well. I used it on soda cans, beer bottles, and even cat food cans. Each task took seconds.
My mom tried it on her arthritis medication bottle. She smiled when the lid came off easily. That’s when I knew this was the winner.
How I Clean It
Cleaning is simple. I rinse the tools under warm water. If there’s sticky residue, I use a little dish soap.
The rubber parts clean easily. They don’t absorb stains or odors.
I let them air dry on the counter. They dry in minutes.
Once a week, I wipe them down with a damp cloth. That keeps them looking new.
Testing Results
Jars opened successfully: 14 out of 15
Ease of use rating: 9.5/10
Durability after two weeks: No wear or damage
Best for: People who need one tool for multiple tasks
The only jar it struggled with was an oversized industrial-sized mayo jar. The lid was too big for the largest opening. But honestly, I rarely use containers that large.
2. Otstar 6-in-1 Jar Opener & Bottle Opener Set
My Rating: 9/10
This set impressed me with its premium build quality. It feels more solid than other openers I tested.
Product Features
The set includes a 6-in-1 jar opener, a 5-in-1 bottle opener, a silicone gripper pad, and a waiter’s corkscrew.
The jar opener has eight circular openings. They range from 1 to 3 inches in diameter. There’s also a mouth-shaped hook for breaking vacuum seals on large jars.
The bottle opener handles five different tasks. It opens bottle caps, soda cans, and pull-tab lids.
The silicone gripper pad is square-shaped. It provides excellent grip on smooth lids.
The corkscrew uses a classic design. It has a two-stage cork lifter.
Everything comes in blue and grey colors. The materials are high-quality plastic and silicone.
What I Like
The eight different circular openings cover more sizes than other openers. I found the right fit for every jar I tested.
The mouth-shaped hook is clever. It breaks the vacuum seal on stuck lids. Once the seal breaks, the lid twists off easily.
The silicone gripper pad is thicker than standard pads. It doesn’t slip around.
I love that it includes a corkscrew. I tested it on a wine bottle. Worked perfectly.
The anti-slip rubber lining is top-notch. Even the smoothest lids couldn’t escape its grip.
Why It’s Better
The lever-action mechanism is brilliant. It multiplies your strength. My mom used minimal effort to open a tight jar.
The build quality beats cheaper models. After two weeks of daily use, it still looks brand new.
The silicone gripper pad doubles as a hot pad. I used it to grab a hot pot lid. Super handy.
The 2-year warranty gives me peace of mind. Most jar openers don’t come with warranties.
How It Performed
I tested it on a honey jar first. Honey jars get incredibly sticky. The lid was crusted with dried honey.
I fitted the circular opening over the lid. One twist and it opened. No slipping.
Next up was a new jar of peanut butter. Those vacuum seals are tough. I used the mouth-shaped hook to break the seal. Then I twisted the lid off with the circular opening.
The bottle opener worked great on soda cans. The pull-tab lifter saved my fingernails.
I tested the corkscrew on a bottle of wine. It pierced the cork smoothly. The two-stage lifter made pulling the cork easy.
My mom tried it on her prescription bottles. She opened five different bottles without asking for help.
How I Clean It
I wash it with warm soapy water after each use. The smooth plastic surface wipes clean easily.
The silicone gripper pad needs extra attention. I scrub it gently with a soft brush to remove any grease.
I rinse everything thoroughly and let it air dry.
The corkscrew wipes clean with a damp cloth. I dry it immediately to prevent rust on the metal parts.
Testing Results
Jars opened successfully: 15 out of 15
Ease of use rating: 9/10
Durability after two weeks: Excellent, no signs of wear
Best for: People who want premium quality and extra tools
This set opened every single jar I tested. The extra corkscrew makes it worth the slightly higher price.
3. Otstar Black and Red Jar Opener
My Rating: 8.5/10
This is the budget-friendly option. Don’t let the low price fool you. It works really well.
Product Features
This is a single tool with multiple functions. It has eight circular openings for different lid sizes.
There’s a mouth-shaped hook on top. It breaks vacuum seals on large lids.
A straight hook on the side opens ring-pull cans.
The handle is long for good leverage. The surface has indentations for a non-slip grip.
It’s made from food-grade plastic with rubber lining. Available in black and red or blue and grey.
The size is compact. It fits in any kitchen drawer.
What I Like
The price is unbeatable. Under $8 and it does the job.
It’s super lightweight. My mom carries it from the kitchen to her room.
The rubber lining provides a firm grip. I tested it on slippery glass jars. No problems.
Both sides of the opener work. You can flip it over for different lid sizes.
The indentations on the handle help your hand stay in place. Even when my hands were sweaty, I maintained a good grip.
Why It’s Better
For the price, nothing beats it. I compared it to a $15 opener from a local store. This one performed just as well.
It’s simpler than multi-piece sets. Some people prefer one tool instead of three or four pieces.
The compact size is perfect for small kitchens. It doesn’t take up much space.
The straight hook for ring-pull cans is something other openers don’t have. I used it on cat food cans. Worked perfectly.
How It Performed
I tested it on a stubborn jar of pasta sauce. The lid had been stuck for days.
I chose the right circular opening. Fitted it over the lid. Turned it clockwise. The lid opened on the first try.
Next, I tried a small jam jar. The lid was sticky from spilled jam. The opener gripped it firmly. No slipping.
I tested the mouth-shaped hook on a large mayo jar. I used it to break the vacuum seal. Then I used the circular opening to twist off the lid.
The ring-pull hook opened my cat’s food cans. This feature saved my fingernails.
My mom tested it on her vitamin bottles. She opened three different bottles without struggle.
It does require some strength to grip the lids tightly. If you turn it without gripping firmly, it might slip. Once I learned to grip harder, it worked every time.
How I Clean It
I rinse it under warm water after use. If there’s sticky residue, I add a drop of dish soap.
I scrub the rubber lining with a soft sponge. This removes any grease or food particles.
I shake off excess water and let it air dry.
Once a week, I give it a deep clean with soapy water. I make sure to clean between the indentations on the handle.
Testing Results
Jars opened successfully: 13 out of 15
Ease of use rating: 8.5/10
Durability after two weeks: Good, minor scuffing on the plastic
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want something simple
This opener struggled with very large jars and very small medicine bottles. But for standard kitchen jars, it’s excellent.
How to Choose the Right Jar Opener
Let me share what I learned about choosing a jar opener.
Consider Your Grip Strength
If you have very weak hands, get an opener with long handles. The HUMANFUN set has the longest handles I tested.
If you have moderate strength, the Otstar Black and Red model works fine.
Think About What You Open Most
Do you mostly open pickle jars and pasta sauce? Any of these three openers will work.
Do you also open soda cans and bottles? Get a set with a bottle opener included.
Do you drink wine? The Otstar 6-in-1 set includes a corkscrew.
Check the Size Range
Look at what you have in your kitchen right now. Check your jar sizes.
If you have mostly standard jars, any opener works. If you have very large or very small containers, get an opener with more size options.
Budget Matters
All three openers I tested are affordable. But prices vary.
The Black and Red Otstar costs under $8. The HUMANFUN set costs around $10. The Otstar 6-in-1 set costs around $12.
The price difference is small. I recommend getting the best one for your needs instead of just the cheapest.
Tips for Using Jar Openers
Here’s what I learned during my testing.
Choose the Right Size Opening
Don’t force a small opening onto a large lid. It won’t grip properly.
Test different openings until you find the right fit. The lid should sit snugly in the circular opening.
Turn in the Right Direction
Most lids open counterclockwise. But when you’re using a jar opener, you turn the opener clockwise. This turns the lid counterclockwise.
It feels backward at first. After a few tries, it becomes natural.
Grip Firmly
The opener needs to grip the lid tightly. If it’s loose, it will slip.
Use one hand to hold the jar steady. Use your other hand to turn the opener.
Break the Seal First
If a jar is vacuum-sealed, break the seal first. Use the hook tool to pry under the lid edge. You’ll hear a pop when the seal breaks.
Then use the circular opening to twist off the lid.
Keep It Dry
Wet openers can slip. Dry your hands and the opener before use.
If the lid is wet, wipe it dry first.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I made these mistakes during my first tests. Learn from my errors.
Using Too Small an Opening
I tried to use a small opening on a large lid. It didn’t work. The opener just spun around without gripping.
Always use an opening that fits the lid properly.
Not Gripping the Jar
I tried to open a jar with one hand. The jar spun around with the lid.
Hold the jar firmly with one hand. Turn the opener with the other.
Giving Up Too Fast
Some lids are really stuck. I almost gave up on a honey jar.
But I repositioned the opener and tried again. It worked on the second try.
Don’t give up if it doesn’t work immediately. Adjust your grip and try again.
Forcing It
I tried to force an opener onto a lid that was too big. The plastic started to bend.
If it doesn’t fit, don’t force it. Try a different opening or use the gripper pad.
How I Tested These Products
I want to be clear about my testing process.
I bought all three openers with my own money. Nobody paid me to review them.
I tested each opener on the same 15 containers:
- Large pickle jar
- Small jam jar
- Peanut butter jar
- Pasta sauce jar
- Honey jar
- Mayo jar
- Soda bottle
- Beer bottle
- Cat food can
- Medicine bottle
- Vitamin bottle
- Salsa jar
- Olive jar
- Mustard jar
- Juice bottle
I used each opener multiple times on each container. I tested them when my hands were dry and when they were wet.
I asked my mom to test them too. Her feedback was important because she has arthritis.
I used them for two weeks straight. I wanted to see if they would break or wear out.
I cleaned them after each use to test how easy they are to maintain.
Which One Should You Buy?
Here’s my honest recommendation.
Buy the HUMANFUN 5-in-1 set if you want the best overall value. It opens the most containers. It comes with multiple pieces. It’s durable and easy to use.
Buy the Otstar 6-in-1 set if you want premium quality. It has the best build quality. The extra corkscrew is useful. It comes with a warranty.
Buy the Otstar Black and Red opener if you’re on a tight budget. It’s the cheapest option that still works well. It’s simple and effective.
All three are good choices. You can’t go wrong with any of them.
My Final Thoughts
Testing these jar openers changed how I think about kitchen tools.
These aren’t just gadgets. They’re independence tools. They let people with weak hands do things for themselves.
My mom doesn’t have to wait for me to visit anymore. She can open her medicine bottles. She can enjoy her favorite pickles again.
That’s worth more than the $8 to $12 these cost.
If you or someone you love struggles with jars, get one of these openers. They work. They’re affordable. They make life easier.
I’ll keep using the HUMANFUN set in my kitchen. I bought the Otstar Black and Red model for my mom’s kitchen. She loves it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do jar openers work for people with severe arthritis?
Yes, they do. My mom has severe arthritis and she uses these daily. The long handles give you leverage. You don’t need strong grip strength. Just choose an opener with ergonomic handles.
Can I use these on child-proof medicine bottles?
Some medicine bottles have special caps. These openers work on the regular screw-top bottles. For child-proof caps, you need to press down first, then twist. The opener helps with the twisting part.
Will the rubber parts wear out?
I used these for two weeks straight. The rubber still looks new. They’re made from durable materials. With normal use, they should last for years.
Can left-handed people use these openers?
Yes. I tested them with both hands. They work the same way for left-handed and right-handed people. The grip is comfortable either way.
Do I need to buy all the pieces or just one?
It depends on your needs. If you only open standard jars, one opener is enough. If you open bottles, cans, and jars, get a set with multiple pieces.
Are these safe to use?
Yes. They’re much safer than using knives to pry lids open. I used to stab jar lids with a knife. These openers are the safer option. No sharp edges. No risk of slipping and cutting yourself.
Can I wash these in the dishwasher?
The instructions say hand-wash only. I wash mine by hand. It takes 30 seconds. Hand washing makes them last longer.