Is it necessary to use the zip tool for opening the bags? Can this system be comfortably used by people with arthritis in their hands?
1832297
I too have arthritis in my hands and I use the system quite comfortably. I love the waring pro. No you do not need to use the tool for opening bags it is the same as any zip lock bag. I have bought two more Waring Pros for Christmas gifts for family. You truly will enjoy this system. I seal everything food, cheeses , celery everything last so much longer fresh.
1832298
No, you don't use the zip tool to open the bags. You only need to use the zip tool to CLOSE the bags.
1832299
The zip tool is not used for opening the bags, only for closing. The bags have a fairly wide lip/edge to grab onto to open, which might help an arthritis sufferer open them successfully. Another option for opening might be to use a dull butter knife or something similar to break the seal. I would say that unless the arthritis is debilitating, these bags could be used successfully. It's really a great system. Good luck.
1696982
You can squish the air out, however, a vacuum will make the job faster and will give a better result. Ie: squashing out more air leaving the bag even smaller.
918947
Pretty easy, sometimes you need to squeeze between your fingers. Just like you do with bags for fruit at the local store. If its a cold winter night I'd suggest checking bag before heading out.
1305508
You don't have to open the bags. This product didn't work for me mice just ate everything I didn't even see one dead mouse, for me after using this product the mouse problems got worse. I ordered snap e mouse trap that was the best decision I made so far no more mouse. Good luck
903109
Well... I don't have arthritis, but the lids are definitely easy to put on--just push firmly and they pop on. I don't find them difficult to remove. Place a finger under the lid and pull up. I don't know the limits of your arthritis, but my mom had arthritis in her hands, and she was able to open some of the larger bowls in this series, so I THINK you'll be OK.
451595
I have not tested it but, there is a video on youtube that shows how to use the Foodsaver Handheld with ziploc bags.
1137994
I don't have arthritis, so it's difficult to answer this question. I can tell you the vacuum is easy to hold and maneuver. It is rather heavy to carry up and downstairs, and it's a pain to have to unwind the whole cord to use the hose, but this is the best vacuum I've ever owned.
487652
I have had no problems rolling it up. It might be challenging for someone with arthritis in their hands. Basically, you lay it out flat in the closed position, and then fold it in half in the long direction. You then roll it up tightly at this half-width, starting from the foot, keeping the bag folded and square as you go. At the top there is a built-in strap arrangement, using black cord, to hold the bag in its rolled-up position. It consists of a loop of cord on one side, fastened at each corner of the half-width of the bag, and a single cord with a plastic hook on it at the other side, centered on the half-width. The idea is to pull the middle of the loop around in one direction around the outside of the rolled-up bag, and then engage the hook in it from the other side. This creates a Y-shaped fastening that keeps the bag rolled up. It took me a few tries to figure out how this was supposed to work when I first got the bag, but it's not too hard to figure out. Pay attention to how it is rolled up when it arrives. The important thing is to roll the bag tightly and keep it square (even), rather than letting the bag edges slop out and roll up unevenly. keeping it tight makes it easier to fasten the cord. I know other people have complained about this arrangement in other reviews, but I don't have a problem with it. Alternatively a couple of short bungee cords would serve the same purpose of keeping the bag closed. I like the convenience of having the straps built in.
321071
I find the clips easy to open and I have lost a lot of strength in my hands due to age (no arthritis). I have had to buy all sorts of gadgets to assist me opening jar lids and even "hermetically sealed" packages, which I now cut open with kitchen shears..loss of strength in your hands can be quite disconserting! b.h.
1495239
You should be fine without thumb use. My daughter in law has rheumatoid arthritis and loves hers. Best Wishes.
1111530
Yes, they're easy to use. I whldnt think you'd have much issue. Of course, the stronger you are going to get more air out of the bag.
180910
I have only had mine for a short time and it's not too warm yet in Michigan, so haven't used it much. So far I'd say it is not easy to open. I think it would be a problem for an elderly person. It is fairly comfortable, but you really have to push to get it to recline. Maybe it will be better with use and some WD-40.
904486
It doesn't require a lot of pressure, but I probably wouldn't recommend it for anyone with arthritis...even my hand will get sore/tired after awhile. I also agree with Chris's analysis, but I do like it for quick jobs i.e. cat litter, but I have to use a regular vacuum for the whole house. And the mopping feature sucks.
816910
You need to remove the hose first. Then you will be able to open the compartment that hold the bag.
990992
I have arthritis, but not in my fingers. It takes a bit of strength to open the compartments.
1867383
No. Which I've come to appreciate. It does take thumb strength to open it up quickly. Very well made though.
1080009
I use a Velcro one. I don't have arthritis but I only have the use of one hand, so the pull-on braces are harder for me and the Velcros are easier. Hope this helps!