You can use a bowl instead of a jar as long as all of the can opener’s moving parts fit inside it. Vinegar’s acidity helps to break down built up rust and gunk. White vinegar is sometimes called distilled vinegar.
If your can opener is so dirty or rusty that the moving parts don’t work well, then you’ll have to soak it longer. Try leaving it overnight so the vinegar can really work at the gunk. [3] X Research source
Depending on the can opener type, you may have to open it up to reach the gears. If rust is built up outside the moving parts, scrub here as well.
Soap scum can attract dirt and cause rusting, so make sure to rinse the can opener well.
If the cloth can’t reach into the gears, then blow hard into them to push off any hidden moisture.
Different models may have different methods for detaching the bracket. Check the instruction manual for your can opener for the correct process. If your can opener bracket is not detachable, you can still clean the gears with a toothbrush and white vinegar.
If your can opener was so rusted or dirty that the gears wouldn’t move, then leave it soaking longer. Wait overnight so the grime loosens better. If your blade bracket isn’t removable, then skip to the next step.
If the blade bracket isn’t removable and hasn’t been soaking in vinegar, then you’ll have to scrub more. Really soak the toothbrush in vinegar and scrub hard from multiple different directions to work the grime off.
Soap scum can attract dirt and cause rust, so be sure to rinse the bracket well. Dry the bracket thoroughly. If the cloth can’t reach into the gears, then blow on them to push off any hidden moisture.
A stainless steel can opener may be a bit more expensive than other models, but it’s the best can opener to resist rusting.
Leave the can opener out on the countertop to dry, even after you’ve wiped it with a cloth. Moisture doesn’t evaporate as well inside drawers.
Hold the can opener with a rag or oven mitt while you do this. The metal could get very hot from the hair dryer.
