5 Ways To Open Rigid Plastic Clamshell Packages Safely - WikiHow

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Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Open Rigid Plastic Clamshell Packages Safely PDF download Download Article Author Info

Last Updated: February 24, 2025 References

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  • Perforation Method
    • |
  • Can Opener Method
    • |
  • Knife, Box Cutter or Scissors Method
    • |
  • Commercial Products Method
    • |
  • Aviation Snips Method
    • |
  • Video
    • |
  • Q&A
    • |
  • Tips
    • |
  • Warnings
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wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 31 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 470,953 times. Learn more...

Those oversized, rigid 'clamshell' packages may help to secure items for shipping and cut down on shoplifting, but they can be a nightmare for consumers. There's even a term for the frustration they inspire: wrap rage.[1] In 2004, over 6,000 Americans went to the emergency room with injuries resulting from opening difficult packaging! Here's a rundown on how to preserve your hands and sanity when confronting a blister pack that has no apparent means of entry.

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 5:

Perforation Method

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  1. Step 1 Check the back of the package for an opening before you proceed. 1 Check the back of the package for an opening before you proceed. It's still pretty rare, but some manufacturers - in response to consumer complaints - are including slits, perforations, and other starting points for opening their clamshell packages on the back. Also look around the sides to see if there are any pop-together tabs that could simply pull apart.[2]
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Method 2 Method 2 of 5:

Can Opener Method

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  1. Step 1 Get a manual rotary can opener. 1 Get a manual rotary can opener.
  2. Step 2 Open the clamshell as if it were a can. 2 Open the clamshell as if it were a can. The sharp wheels of the can opener will cut the plastic without cutting your hands. It won't go around the corners, so just cut open one side. This will give you plenty of room to...[3]
  3. Step 3 Insert a knife between the two layers of plastic and cut all the way around. 3 Insert a knife between the two layers of plastic and cut all the way around. Since the blade is inside the package and pointing towards the center, it's much safer than trying to stab through the plastic and wedge the tip in between. With a decent knife, the remainder of the plastic should be easy to cut.[4]
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Method 3 Method 3 of 5:

Knife, Box Cutter or Scissors Method

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  1. Step 1 Recognize the dangers of using these sharp implements. 1 Recognize the dangers of using these sharp implements. People do cut themselves frequently, as mentioned in the introduction.
  2. Step 2 Cut carefully all... 2 Cut carefully all the way around the edge with the best scissors or box cutters that you can get your hands on, until the package easily opens. Do NOT cut across the middle of the package; you could cut through the instructions or a part of the product, and it's the most cumbersome way to go. Start on the right side of the package, cutting up and around the perimeter, if you are right-handed. If you are left handed, start on the left.[5]
    • Be willing to quickly admit it if your favorite scissors or knife aren't sharp enough to allow you to cut smoothly and safely. Your uncut hands will thank you later. Borrow or buy a can opener.
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Method 4 Method 4 of 5:

Commercial Products Method

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  1. Step 1 There are products sold specifically for opening clamshell packages but they are not always effective. 1 There are products sold specifically for opening clamshell packages but they are not always effective.[6]
Method 5 Method 5 of 5:

Aviation Snips Method

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  1. Step 1 If you can... 1 If you can get your hands on them, aviation snips (also referred to as tin snips) are designed for cutting thin metal and will work on rigid plastic as well. The compound hinge gives extra leverage and the blades are not too sharp.[7]
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Community Q&A

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  • Question Is it possible to do it with my bare hands? Louisa Louisa Community Answer I don't recommend it. Sometimes clamshell packaging can be forced open, but usually it's better for your nails (and sanity) to use scissors, can openers, or the other methods listed in the article. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 5 Helpful 10
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Video

Tips

  • Clean up after yourself: recycle the sharp plastic package rim(s) that you have sliced off, and stow your cutting tools appropriately. Thanks Helpful 33 Not Helpful 17
  • If you're tired of these packages, let manufacturers know. They're attractive to manufacturers because they're strong, lightweight, inexpensive, and they discourage shoplifting and returns of items. If the inconvenience or the environmental consequences of clamshell packages bug you, speak up! Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 0
  • Bend the corners so they break and rip them off. Thanks Helpful 9 Not Helpful 7
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

  • Most methods will still leave some sharp plastic corners, so be careful. Thanks Helpful 15 Not Helpful 3
  • Remember to put away your box cutters or heavy-duty shears after you are done with them, especially if you have, or host, children at your house. Thanks Helpful 8 Not Helpful 6
  • Stay focused on what you are doing. It shouldn't take long, but it ought to command your full attention. Rigid PVC packaging is capable of causing serious cuts. This is most likely to occur if you lose your patience or try to open clamshell packages while distracted by something else. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
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References

  1. ↑ https://www.thestar.com/news/insight/clamshell-packaging-is-an-often-dangerous-lesson-in-bad-design/article_5f9bbff4-1b7f-58fc-951b-ac2802544e4f.html
  2. ↑ https://www.moneytalksnews.com/how-to-open-plastic-packaging-without-injuring-yourself/
  3. ↑ https://www.thekitchn.com/can-opener-hack-clamshell-packaging-22923237
  4. ↑ https://www.thekitchn.com/can-opener-hack-clamshell-packaging-22923237
  5. ↑ https://youtu.be/ppOJkIB2f9w?t=70
  6. ↑ https://www.moneytalksnews.com/how-to-open-plastic-packaging-without-injuring-yourself/
  7. ↑ https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/2019/07/story-of-plastic-common-clamshell-packaging-recycling-nightmare/

About This Article

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 31 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 470,953 times. 115 votes - 60% Co-authors: 31 Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 470,953 Categories: Featured Articles | Stationery In other languages Italian Russian Spanish
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About This Article

115 votes - 60% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 31 Updated: February 24, 2025 Views: 470,953

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