How to Clean a Stand Mixer

A quality stand mixer can last for years, saving you time and energy in the kitchen. However, between mixing cake batter, cookie dough, bread dough and more, it will undoubtedly get dirty. Everything from doughy fingerprints to mixture splatters and more are problematic.

Cleaning your stand mixer is important, but it should be done with care to avoid damage. So, how do you clean a stand mixer?

Why Is It Important to Clean My Stand Mixer Regularly?

A dirty kitchen stand mixer is more than an eyesore. You might not see small food particles inside the hardworking parts of your mixer, but rest assured they’re there.

These particles can breed bacteria, which can impact your health. More than that, the buildup will eventually impact how well your stand mixer works.

It can result in overheating, and the motor may burn out. By regularly cleaning your mixer, you can get more life and better functionality out of it.

A Quick Cleaning Routine for Your Stand Mixer

Cleaning your stand mixer requires a superficial cleaning as well as a deeper cleaning of the components.

While it sounds labor intensive, you can actually get the work done in a few minutes.

Unplug and Disassemble the Mixer

Before cleaning the stand mixer, it’s critical to unplug the cord. This will prevent unfortunate and serious electrical shocks.

The mixer’s removable parts, such as the bowl plate and the attachments, should be removed. Doing so allows you to more thoroughly clean them and the small crevices they conceal.

Clean Removable Parts

Your mixer’s removable parts could have hardened dough or batter on them as well as bacteria.

Remove the grime using a scrubber or cleaning brush. It’s often easier to remove hardened grime if you soak the removable parts in soapy water first before cleaning them. Typically, the mixing bowl is dishwasher safe.

Wipe Down the Mixer Body

The mixer body should be cleaned with care to avoid getting excess water in the motor. First, wipe down the mixer body with a lightly damp cloth. Apply extra pressure to remove large clumps that are more difficult to get off.

For debris on the mixer’s ventilation shaft, use a dry toothbrush or a toothpick with great care. Wipe off any freed debris using a dry cloth.

Clean the Attachment Hub

The attachment hub can be one of the dirtiest places on a stand mixer. Use a cloth or sponge dipped in hot, soapy water to remove loose and hard, dried food remnants. If necessary, use the toothbrush or a small scrubber to free the remnants with greater friction. Then, use a damp, clean cloth to wipe away the soapy water and food residue.

Polish and Dry Everything

The stand mixer should be completely dry before reassembling it. Use a dry cloth for drying and polishing.

Some of the smaller spaces and nooks may be difficult to reach with the towel. Air dry the stand mixer after wiping it down to ensure all areas are free of moisture.

Reassemble and Store Properly

Once the kitchen stand mixer is dry, you’re ready to reassemble the parts. Then, place it in a clean, dry space to prevent it from getting dirty between uses. Some people use a cover to protect their mixer from dust and other airborne debris.

FAQs

How often should I clean my stand mixer?

The stand mixer’s removable parts should be cleaned after every use. If you see food remnants, remove these with a wet cloth. It’s easier to remove the remnants when they haven’t had time to dry. A deeper cleaning is needed after every three to five uses.

What’s the best way to clean stuck-on batter or dough?

Stuck-on batter or dough is stubborn, but you can most easily remove it after the food remnants are re-moistened.

Use a damp toothbrush or scrubber as well as soapy, water for easier cleaning. If the mess remains, use a toothpick to chip away at the mess.

What should I do if my mixer still smells or feels greasy?

If your mixer smells bad or feels slippery after cleaning it, additional effort is required. Repeat the cleaning steps, but use diluted white vinegar instead of soapy water. Diluted white vinegar is a grease-fighting agent, and it is better at stripping bacterial growth off of the mixer.

Properly caring for your many kitchen gadgets and other items takes more time away from other more enjoyable activities, like baking sweet treats for your family and friends. With Cleanzen’s customizable regular cleaning services and deep cleaning services, it’s easy to stay on top of your chores without a major time commitment. Book a cleaning service today.