How to Open an Envelope Without Breaking the Seal

You can easily open and reseal an envelope in just minutes.

You may, for legitimate reasons, have to dig into an already sealed envelope without making it look like it's been attacked by a pack of wolves. Just be sure you have the right to access the contents of the envelope because tampering with mail that doesn't belong to you can have serious legal consequences, including jail time. The U.S. Postal Service cites that the U.S. Postal Inspection Agency made more than 7,000 arrests in 2009, more than half related to mail theft. If it's your own mail you're messing with, then it's no big deal. You can quickly open and reseal most envelopes in a matter of minutes, possibly saving yourself a stamp or a trip to the store.

Things You'll Need

• Electric kettle or teapot
• Oven mitts
• Knife

Instructions

1. 

   An electric kettle will get the job done quickly.

   Fill the kettle or teapot halfway with water.

2. 

   Waiting for the water to boil is the hardest part.

   Plug the kettle in if you are using an electric kettle and bring the water to a boil. If you are using a teapot, place it on the stovetop and bring it to a boil.

3. 

   Oven mitts reduce your risk of injury.

   Put on a pair of heat-resistant oven mitts. Hold the envelope with the sealed flap facing down, 3 inches above the steam flow, and slowly move it back and forth lengthwise for five to 10 seconds.

4. 

   A smooth-edged knife works best to reduce the risk of tearing.

   Remove the envelope from the flow of steam and take off the oven mitts. Gently slide the knife under the sealed flap; it should pull up easily. Work the envelope open while the glue is still soft. If the seal does not lift up easily, repeat Steps 3 and 4.

5. 

   Resealed and ready to go

   Don your oven mitts again and place the envelope back over the steam in the same manner you did to open it. Press the flap closed and continue pressing it back together over the steam until it sticks back together.

Tips & Warnings

• To avoid saturating the envelope, do not hold it over the steam too long.

• Never fill the kettle or teapot to the top, or splashes of water may soak the envelope.

• Avoid putting your face, arms or body in direct contact with the steam, which can cause severe and painful burns or blisters.

References

• Cornell University Law School: U.S. Code Title 18, Part I, Chapter 83, Section 1708: Theft or Receipt of Stolen Mail Matter Gen­erally
• U.S. Postal Inspection Service:

Resources

• U.S. Postal Service