Abstract: A lid lifter arranged for releasing and removing the lid from a self-sealing reclosable container, such as a NORPAK bucket, is comprised of an elongate arcuate bar which is configured for tightly fitting between the paired parallel flanges which encircle such buckets near their upper ends. An elastic fastener interconnects the ends of the bar and fits around the container to secure the bar thereto. An L-shaped fulcrum plate extending outwardly and upwardly from joinder to the bar has a medial opening arranged for loosely receiving a lever which has a rectangular pad attached to its inner end. The opening is located so that the pad fits under the rim of the bucket lid in a manner to lift a portion of it simultaneously outwardly and upwardly when the lever is pivoted in the opening, thereby releasing the lid from the container and lifting it so that it wil not become reclosed when the lifter is removed.