Buzz
Using steam to open an envelope is an age-old technique. It's remarkably simple, and when done with care, the envelope can be opened and sealed again with minimal evidence. However, it's essential to note that using this method for unauthorized access to mail is illegal. There are legitimate reasons you might need to steam open an envelope, though. For instance, if envelopes are sealed tightly or if you've accidentally mixed up letters or cards. There are several methods to open an envelope discreetly and retain its original appearance.
Procedures
Using Steam from the Stove
Boil a pot of water. You don't need much water; about an inch and a half in the pot should suffice. Place it on the heat. Using too much water will prolong the boiling process, while too little will evaporate too quickly. While waiting for the water to boil, prepare your envelope.
Suspend the envelope over the boiling water. Position the side of the envelope with the opening flap facing downwards towards the water. Locate a spot where you can gently slide your thumb under the flap. A good area is at either end of the flap, as some envelopes lack adhesive there.
Apply gentle, consistent pressure on the flap. Be careful not to tear the paper. Once the envelope becomes hot, damp, and flexible from the steam, the adhesive will melt, allowing the envelope to open.
- Avoid exposing the paper to steam for too long, as it may become soggy, revealing your actions. Hold the envelope over the steam for approximately 15 seconds before attempting to open it, returning it to the steam if it remains stuck.
- Consider using a skewer instead of your thumb or finger to lift the flap. This method offers better control, particularly if you insert the skewer vertically under one end of the flap and rotate it along the length of the flap.
Using a Kettle to Steam Open
Boil plenty of water in the kettle. Instead of using a stove, opt for a kettle. This approach typically generates a larger volume of hotter steam. It also reduces the risk of scorching the envelope edges, especially with a gas stove.
Hold the envelope slightly away from the spout. Ensure it is not too close, and aim for even steam distribution across the seal. Inserting a spoon into the kettle's spout can help control the steam's direction. If the envelope appears excessively wet, move it away and exercise patience to avoid wrinkling, which could expose your actions.
- Due to the intense steam from a kettle, consider wearing an oven glove or similar protection for the hand holding the envelope.
Gently open the envelope.
After removing it from the steam, wait a few seconds. Then, similar to the stove method, carefully slide a flat blade under the seal to release it. Take care not to tear the envelope. If it doesn't open easily, give it more time in the steam and try again.
Using an Iron
Fill your iron with water and plug it in. Another method to steam open an envelope, with less steam, is to use a clothes iron. It operates similarly but can be neater and simpler than using a kettle or stove. Heat your iron as if you were ironing clothes and prepare your sealed envelope.
Prepare a suitable surface for the envelope. Ensure the surface is clean and free from anything that could mark the envelope. Choose a surface that can withstand the heat of the iron without burning or scorching, such as an ironing board. Position the envelope with the opening flap facing up towards the iron.
Iron the envelope. Set the iron to a medium-low temperature and glide it gently back and forth over the envelope, applying light pressure. The heat from the iron will melt the adhesive securing the envelope's flap. Using a higher iron temperature will expedite the melting process, but be cautious of burning or scorching the envelope. Take your time and avoid rushing.
Use a flat blade to break the seal. Similar to other steaming methods, once the glue is melted, gently slide a blunt knife under the flap to open the envelope. Avoid using a sharp knife to minimize the risk of tearing or damaging the envelope. If it's still sticking, don't force it open; instead, give it more time in the heat.
Resealing the Envelope
Allow the envelope to dry. If you're attempting to steam open an envelope, you may want to know how to reseal it. Let the glue cooled and regain its stickiness.
Moisten the glue and seal it normally. Start by licking the adhesive strips and closing the envelope as usual. The glue should have regained its tackiness, allowing you to press it closed.
- Keep in mind that you might need to hold the strip down a bit longer than usual to ensure it sticks.
Reseal using steam. Another method to reseal the envelope is by briefly exposing the adhesive side of the flap to steam again. Bring your water to a boil and hold the envelope over the boiling water for about twenty seconds.
Press the adhesive strip gently back into place. While holding the envelope over the steam, use your finger to smooth down the sticky strip. Be cautious not to fold or let too much steam saturate the envelope.
Remove from the steam and keep it shut. Take the envelope out of the steam and place it on a flat surface. Apply pressure to the adhesive strip and hold it closed for about thirty seconds, or place a heavy object like a book on top. Soon, it should be resealed and ready to use.
- If it doesn't fully seal on the first attempt, return it to the steam briefly and lightly press it together. Avoid rubbing the envelope, as it may tear when damp.
Apply a small amount of glue. If other methods fail, don't worry! You can use some Elmer's glue, but ensure that you spread it evenly to resemble a regular envelope. Avoid leaving visible glue marks or soggy patches. A thin, even layer should suffice.
Tips
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Remember, discretion is key. Be discreet and avoid performing this task around individuals you don't want to know about it. Also, ensure the open envelope isn't left where it could be seen before being resealed. Use your judgment.
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Avoid leaving a pot of boiling water unattended. Not only is it hazardous, but it's also suspicious. Either discard the water and store the pot away, or utilize it for cooking. There's no need to waste water unnecessarily.
Warnings
- Unauthorized opening of someone else's mail is a serious offense. The information provided here is solely for educational purposes.
Things You'll Need
- A pot of water
- A stove
- A kettle (optional)
- An iron (optional)
- A freezer and freezer bag or container (optional)
- Elmer's glue (optional)
