Experts have lifted the lid on the best way to open a stubborn jar – rubber gloves.
Consumer group Which? said they top hot water, cling film, tea towels and elastic bands when raw strength fails.
Rubber gloves provide a sturdy grip and cushion your hand against the metal lid.
But they must be clean and dry to stop slippages. Hacks including tapping the jar on a worktop or using the handles of scissors were tested with volunteers, including at least one with osteoarthritis.
Which? said: “A jar that won’t open is incredibly frustrating.
“There are a number of methods and products accompanied by claims they make it easy to open a stubborn jar. We’ve found out which ones actually work.”
The panel found £2 silicone jar openers are no better than the gloves while the £8 Brabantia Universal Opener can slightly damage lids.
Which? added: “The successful hacks we tried worked just as well as the most popular products you can buy, so there’s no need to splash out on a gadget.”
