How to Steam Open an Envelope

The bill is sealed in the stamped envelope and ready to go, but the check is still on the desk! Now is the time to locate the tea kettle and steam open that envelope. Of course, this method is for personal mail only. You don't want a mail tampering charge levied for opening someone else's mail. Conviction leads to a fine or imprisonment for up to 7 years!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tea kettle
• Tongs
• Sharp kitchen knife
• Glue

1. Pour 2 cups of cold water into a steam kettle.

2. Set the kettle on the stove burner and set the temperature to high.

3. Get your sharp knife ready. A long blade is best for sliding under the envelope.

4. Grab a pair of tongs. These must have protective handles because the steam is hot. Wooden tongs or those with plastic handles are recommended.

5. Wait until the water boils and steam is rising through the spout.

6. Hold the backside of the envelope downward with the tongs.

7. Slowly move the glue side of the envelope back and forth over the steam. Keep the envelope at least 3 inches away.

8. Watch closely for too much steam hitting the glue and paper. Back the envelope away when it changes shape because of excess moisture. Turn off the stove.

9. Pull the envelope away from the steam and gently place the knife inside at the corner of the glued area.

10. Keep the sharp edge to the glue and slowly slide it through the melted glue. Not too fast, else the envelope could tear.

11. Let the envelope cool off then re-glue with any household kind and reseal. Not much glue is needed. If any glue does spread beyond the envelope, use a moist paper tower to dab it up.