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wikiHow to Pop a Water Bottle Manually

Two Methods:Bottle twistStep and openCommunity Q&A

This simple procedure creates a loud pop as the plastic cap flies off the bottle. It's a fun thing to do with used plastic water bottles, or when you are bored and want to add some spice to life for your friends or coworkers. This "bottle popping" will attract attention of friends and family.

Bottle twist

  1. 1
    Get an empty plastic water bottle, preferably an Ozarka water bottle, or around that size (preferably the cheapest bottle there is). Go to your local grocery store and pick up some store-brand bottled water, those usually work well. The reason for this is bottles from Aquafina, Dasani, and other name brands have thicker plastic, making Step 2 harder.
  2. 2
    Twist the bottle in the center or at the top of the bottom third of the bottle.
  3. 3
    Once you have twisted it as far as you can, carefully twist the cap loose, but not fully, and, holding the bottle securely, slide the cap around slowly with one finger until it pops off loudly.

Step and open

  1. 1
    Find a suitable plastic water bottle. Empty it of water and securely close the cap.
  2. 2
    Step on the bottle.
  3. 3
    Open the bottle cap slightly. Watch it fly away.

Community Q&A

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This video will also provide instructions on how to do it.


  • The length of the flight varies with bottle size and pressure put on it form inside the bottle; however, it is often between 15 and 20 feet, or more. Have fun!
  • Make sure you hold the bottle firmly twisted while twisting off the cap, because if not held, it will untwist and ruin the pop.
  • Twist the cap very slowly when you are ready. You will know when to give a jerk with your finger and get the cap off.


  • Do not point at people or animals. This is dangerous and will result in injury.
  • It also tends to be very unsafe to do this in an enclosed space, as the cap can ricochet off of walls and other surfaces

Things You'll Need

  • Cheap water bottle with thin plastic

Article Info

Categories: Container Tricks

In other languages:

Español: hacer estallar una botella de agua con las manos


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