The KitchenAid stand mixer is a workhorse in countless kitchens, tackling everything from bread dough to delicate meringue. But like any hardworking appliance, it needs regular care to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Here’s how to clean your KitchenAid mixer properly, whether you’re a casual baker or a culinary pro.
Understanding Your KitchenAid Mixer
Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s helpful to understand the different parts of your mixer:
- Body (Motor Housing): This is the main part of the mixer containing the motor.
- Mixing Bowl: The bowl where ingredients are combined.
- Attachments: These include the flat beater, wire whip, dough hook, and any other accessories you may have.
- Beater Shaft: The part where the attachments connect to the mixer.
Basic Cleaning: After Every Use of KitchenAid Mixer
The key to maintaining a sparkling mixer is cleaning it after every use. Here’s the routine:
- Unplug: Always start by unplugging the mixer from the electrical outlet.
- Disassemble: Remove the bowl and attachments.
- Bowl and Attachments: Wash these in warm, soapy water. Most KitchenAid bowls and attachments are dishwasher-safe (top rack only), but check your manual to be sure. The wire whip is usually hand-wash only.
- Wipe Down: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the mixer body, paying attention to any splatters or spills. Never submerge the mixer body in water.
- Beater Shaft: Don’t forget to wipe down the beater shaft, as dough and batter can build up here.
- Dry: Dry all parts thoroughly before reassembling.
Deep Cleaning: A Periodic Refresh
Even with regular cleaning, your mixer will benefit from a deeper cleaning every few months (or more often if you use it frequently).
- Unplug and Disassemble: As with basic cleaning, unplug the mixer and remove all removable parts.
- Drip Ring: The drip ring is the small ring at the base of the beater shaft. It’s designed to catch spills, but it can also trap food particles. To remove it, you may need a screwdriver. Soak it in soapy water and scrub it clean.
- Beater Shaft: Remove any caked-on batter from the beater shaft with a damp cloth or toothbrush.
- Body: Wipe down the mixer’s body thoroughly, paying extra attention to the area around the tilt-head lever (if applicable) and the base of the mixer where crumbs tend to collect.
Troubleshooting
- Stuck-on Dough: If stubborn dough is stuck to any parts, let them soak in warm water for a few minutes to soften it.
- Discoloration: Stainless steel bowls can sometimes develop discoloration from certain ingredients. A paste of baking soda and water can often help remove these stains.
- Grease: If you notice grease around the drip ring, this may be normal lubrication from the motor. Wipe it away with a cloth, but don’t try to remove all of it, as some lubrication is necessary.
Safety First
- Always unplug your mixer before cleaning.
- Never submerge the mixer body in water.
- Be careful when cleaning around the beater shaft – the metal parts can be sharp.
- Don’t use harsh cleaning chemicals, as they can damage the finish of your mixer.
Related: Do I need to clean blender after every use?
Keeping Your Mixer in Top Shape
By following these cleaning tips and giving your KitchenAid mixer a little TLC, you’ll ensure it continues to be a reliable and efficient culinary companion for years.
