Cleaning
Stand mixer cleaning
A stand mixer is an essential tool for any home baker or cooking enthusiast. However, as with any kitchen appliance, it is important to keep your mixer clean to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
A clean mixer not only operates more efficiently, but it also helps to prevent the buildup of food residue that can harbor bacteria and affect the quality of your baked goods.
In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to clean a stand mixer. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this guide will help you keep your stand mixer in tip-top shape and ensure that your baked goods always turn out perfectly.
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Why should you clean your stand mixer
It is important to clean a mixer for several reasons, including:
- Hygiene: Regular cleaning helps to prevent the buildup of food residue, which can harbor harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses.
- Food Quality: A clean mixer ensures that your baked goods and other dishes are free from any lingering flavors or odors that could impact the overall quality and taste.
- Performance: A clean mixer will perform better and more efficiently than a dirty one. This is because the mixer’s components, such as the beaters or whisk, can become clogged with residue over time, hindering their ability to work effectively.
- Durability: By keeping your mixer clean, you can help extend its lifespan and prevent unnecessary wear and tear on its components.
How often should you clean your stand mixer
To prevent any food residue from building up and ensure that your mixer is always ready for the next use, clean your mixer after each use.
Additionally, it is a good idea to perform a more thorough cleaning of your mixer every few months, which may involve disassembling the components and cleaning them more thoroughly.
How to clean your stand mixer: The process
Read manual
Different models of mixers may have different cleaning instructions or requirements. The manual will provide you with specific guidance on how to clean your particular mixer safely and effectively, and may also include warnings or precautions to follow to prevent damage to the appliance or injury to yourself.
“I always clean before the cleaning lady comes. If not, when I come home, I can’t find anything. Cleaning ladies are always hiding things you leave out.”
Celia Cruz
Gather supplies
Here are some supplies you might need to clean a mixer:
- Warm soapy water
- Dish soap
- Microfiber cloth
- Toothbrush or toothpick
- Baking soda
- Stainless steel cleaner
- Paper towel
- Small brush
- Q-tip
- Mild cleaner or all-purpose cleaner
- Vacuum cleaner (optional)
Unplug and remove attachments
Always unplug the appliance before removing the mixer attachments.
Clean mixer attachments
- Rinse the attachments under hot running water to remove any loose food debris.
- Fill a bowl with warm soapy water and add the attachments to the water. You can also add a few drops of dish soap to the water.
- Let the attachments soak for about 15-20 minutes to loosen any stuck-on food.
- Use a soft sponge or dishcloth to scrub the attachments gently, paying special attention to any crevices or hard-to-reach areas. Clean tough areas with baking soda.
- Dry the attachments with a clean towel or let it air dry.
Clean mixer bowl
- Remove any remaining ingredients from the bowl.
- Fill the bowl with warm soapy water.
- Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to wipe the inside of the bowl.
- For tough stains, mix baking soda and water to create a paste and apply it to the stain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it off.
- Rinse the bowl thoroughly with warm water.
- Dry the bowl completely with a clean towel or let it air dry.
Clean around the motor
- Get under the motor head. To clean areas under the motor head, tilt the motor head back and lock into place.
- Pay attention to build-up. Remove grime and residue from the rim on the back of the motor head casing, the lipped area underneath the motor head, the rim of the bowl clamping plate, and any exposed screws.
Clean the mixer exterior
- Wipe down the exterior of the mixer with a damp cloth to remove any loose dirt or debris. Be careful not to get water inside the appliance.
- Mix a solution of warm water and dish soap in a bowl.
- Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the soapy water, then wring out any excess liquid.
- Use the damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the exterior of the mixer, paying extra attention to any areas that are particularly dirty or greasy.
- For tough stains, you can use a non-abrasive cleaning solution specifically designed for kitchen appliances. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.
- After cleaning, rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water and wring out any excess liquid.
- Use the damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the exterior of the mixer again, this time with clean water to remove any soap residue.
- Dry the exterior of the mixer with a clean, dry cloth to prevent any water spots or streaks.
Clean the rest of the mixer
- To clean the mixer, start by cleaning the vents to remove dust and ensure proper airflow.
- Use a dry toothbrush or toothpick to remove hardened material from the ridges and vent holes.
- Clean the speed control knob and screws with a toothbrush or toothpick, then wipe them down with a damp cloth.
- Tilt the mixer’s head back to clean the underside, using a toothbrush for hard-to-reach areas.
- Clean the clamping plate and areas under the motor head and beater shaft with a Q-tip or small brush.
- Lay the mixer on its side to clean the non-slip foot pads, check the electrical cord for food debris, and remove crumbs and dust from the ventilation shaft.
How to maintain your stand mixer
Maintaining your mixer is important to ensure it functions properly and lasts for a long time. Here are some tips on how to maintain your mixer:
- Keep it clean: Regularly wipe down the exterior and interior of the mixer to remove any dirt, grime, or food residue. Clean the attachments and accessories after each use to prevent the buildup of food particles.
- Check for wear and tear: Regularly inspect your mixer for any signs of wear and tear. Look for cracks or chips in the plastic parts, frayed cords, or loose connections. If you notice any damage, stop using the mixer immediately and have it repaired.
- Lubricate the moving parts: Some mixers may require lubrication for the moving parts to operate smoothly. Consult the user manual for instructions on how to lubricate your mixer.
- Use it properly: Always use the mixer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t overload the mixer with too much dough or batter, and avoid mixing heavy ingredients for an extended period of time.
- Store it properly: When not in use, store the mixer in a dry and cool place. Keep the attachments and accessories in a separate container or bag to prevent damage or loss.
By following these tips, you can keep your mixer in good condition and prolong its lifespan.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cleaning your stand mixer is a quick and easy task that can help maintain its functionality and extend its lifespan. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your mixer remains clean and free of debris.
We hope this guide has been helpful, and thank you for reading!
If you have any questions or need help with house cleaning, please do not hesitate to contact us.
