To clean a stand mixer, unplug it, wash the bowl and attachments in warm soapy water or the dishwasher, and wipe the mixer head, body and attachment hub with a damp cloth. Never submerge the motor head. Clean spatters from the head and around the beater shaft after each use, and the mixer stays hygienic and works smoothly for years.
Unplug, wash the bowl and attachments (many are dishwasher-safe), and wipe the head, body and attachment hub with a damp cloth. Never submerge the motor head. Clean spatters around the beater shaft after each use.
Short Answer
Wash the bowl and attachments, wipe the mixer head and body with a damp cloth, and keep the motor out of water. Clean batter spatters from the head and beater shaft after each use to keep it hygienic.
How to Clean a Stand Mixer: Steps
- Unplug the mixer.
- Remove the bowl and attachments and wash them in warm soapy water, or the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe.
- Wipe the mixer head, body and the planetary area with a damp cloth.
- Clean around the beater shaft where batter collects.
- Wipe the attachment hub and its cover.
- Dry everything and reassemble.
Key Takeaway: The beater shaft and head are where batter hides. Wipe them after each use, since dried batter there is the main hygiene issue with stand mixers.
Which Parts Are Dishwasher-Safe?
| Part | Cleaning |
|---|---|
| Stainless bowl | Usually dishwasher-safe |
| Flat beater, dough hook (coated) | Hand-wash if coated; check the manual |
| Wire whisk | Often hand-wash recommended |
| Motor head and body | Wipe only, never submerge |
Cleaning the Attachment Hub
The front attachment hub collects dust and food. Wipe it and its cover regularly, and clean any attachments like the grinder or pasta roller per their instructions, since many are hand-wash only.
Removing Stuck Batter and Stains
For dried batter, a damp cloth and a little warm water soften it; a soft brush helps around the shaft. For a stained bowl, a baking soda paste or a vinegar rinse works. Dry fully to avoid water spots.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Submerging the motor head in water.
- Putting coated beaters in the dishwasher if the maker advises against it.
- Leaving batter to dry around the beater shaft.
- Cleaning while plugged in.
Safety Notes
- Always unplug before cleaning.
- Never put the motor head in water or the dishwasher.
- Handle the whisk and hooks carefully.
- Dry parts fully before reassembling.
FAQ
Can you put a stand mixer bowl in the dishwasher?
Most stainless steel stand mixer bowls are dishwasher-safe, but check the manual. Coated beaters and the wire whisk are often hand-wash only.
How do you clean a KitchenAid mixer head?
Wipe the head and body with a damp cloth; never submerge them. Clean batter from around the beater shaft and the attachment hub after each use.
Can you wash stand mixer beaters in the dishwasher?
It depends on the model. Stainless beaters are often dishwasher-safe, while coated beaters and the wire whisk are usually hand-wash. Check the manual.
Bottom Line
Clean a stand mixer by washing the bowl and attachments, wiping the head and body, and keeping the motor out of water. Clean the beater shaft after each use. To choose an easy-clean model, see our best stand mixers guide.
