Clean the bowl, beaters, and flat mixing paddle after every use

The removable parts of your KitchenAid stand mixer—the stainless steel bowl, wire whip, flat mixing paddle, and dough hook—go into the dishwasher or wash by hand with warm soapy water. Rinse them thoroughly and dry them before storing. Do this right after mixing, while any batter or dough is still soft and hasn't dried on.

Never submerge the mixer head itself or the motor base in water. The motor housing and internal gears will be damaged if water gets inside. The bowl and all removable attachments are safe in the dishwasher on the top rack, though hand washing extends their life if you have the time.

Key Takeaways

  • Remove and wash the bowl, beaters, and paddles when ready after use—dried batter is much harder to remove later.
  • Never submerge the mixer head or base in water; wipe the outside with a damp cloth only.
  • Use a damp cloth or soft brush to clean the crevices where the bowl locks into the base, where flour and sugar collect.
  • Wipe down the power cord and plug with a dry cloth, and store the mixer in a dry spot away from steam or splashing water.

Wipe the mixer head and base with a damp cloth

The motor housing, head, and base should never be immersed in water. Instead, unplug the mixer and use a damp cloth to wipe away any flour, sugar, or batter splatters on the outside surfaces. Pay attention to the seams and crevices where the bowl locks in—flour and sugar settle there and can harden over time.

For stubborn dried spots, dampen the cloth a bit more and let it sit on the spot for a minute before wiping. If you need to clean inside the bowl-locking mechanism, use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to gently dislodge debris. Dry everything with a clean cloth when you're done.

Clean the bowl-locking collar and base crevices

The collar that holds the bowl in place and the space between the head and base collect flour, sugar, and batter over time. These spots are straightforward to miss but will accumulate grit if left alone. Use a damp cloth or a soft-bristled brush to clean around the locking collar and in the grooves where the bowl sits.

If you see hardened batter or dough in these areas, dampen a cloth and let it soften for a minute, then brush gently. Do not use a hard scraper or metal brush, which can scratch the finish or damage the locking mechanism. A soft cloth and a little patience work better.

Handle the power cord and plug safely

The power cord and plug should never come into contact with water. Wipe the cord with a dry cloth if it has flour dust on it. If the plug gets wet, unplug the mixer when ready and let both the cord and plug dry completely before plugging it back in—at least a few hours in a dry spot.

Check the cord regularly for cracks or damage. If you see any, do not use the mixer until the cord is replaced. A damaged cord is a fire and shock hazard.

Store the mixer in a dry location

Keep your KitchenAid stand mixer on a dry countertop or in a cabinet away from the sink, dishwasher, or any source of steam or splashing water. Moisture that seeps into the motor housing over time will corrode the internal components and shorten the mixer's life.

If you store the mixer in a cabinet, make sure the space is well-ventilated and not damp. Basements and under-sink cabinets are poor choices. A dry kitchen counter or a cabinet above the counter is ideal. Store the bowl, beaters, and paddles in a clean, dry spot nearby so they are ready to use.

What to do if the mixer gets wet inside

If water somehow enters the motor housing—for example, if someone accidentally sprays the head with a sink sprayer—unplug the mixer when ready and do not use it. Leave it unplugged in a warm, dry spot for at least 24 hours to allow any internal moisture to evaporate. After that time, plug it in and run it briefly on low speed to check that it works normally.

If the mixer makes unusual sounds, smells like burning, or does not run smoothly after drying, the internal components may have been damaged. In that case, contact KitchenAid customer service or take the mixer to an authorized repair center. Trying to use a wet mixer risks electrical damage or injury.

Maintain the mixer's finish over time

The stainless steel or painted finish on your mixer will stay looking new longer if you wipe it down after each use. Use a soft, slightly damp cloth and dry it when ready afterward. For stainless steel, you can use a stainless steel cleaner or a small amount of mineral oil on a cloth to restore shine, but this is optional.

Avoid abrasive scrubbers, scouring powders, or harsh chemicals, which will scratch or dull the finish. A soft cloth and warm water are all you need for routine cleaning. If the finish gets scratched, it does not affect how the mixer works, but keeping it clean will help you spot any new damage early.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put the bowl in the dishwasher?

Yes. The stainless steel bowl, wire whip, flat paddle, and dough hook are all dishwasher-safe on the top rack. Hand washing them right after use keeps them looking newer longer, but the dishwasher is safe and convenient.

What if batter has dried hard on the bowl or beaters?

Soak the part in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes to soften the dried batter, then wash as usual. A soft brush or sponge will remove the softened batter without scratching the stainless steel. Do not use a metal scraper or scouring pad.

Is it okay to wipe the mixer head with a wet cloth?

Yes, a damp cloth is fine for the outside of the head and base. The key is to use a cloth that is damp, not dripping wet, and to dry the mixer thoroughly afterward. Never submerge the head or pour water on it.

How often should I deep-clean the mixer?

A wipe-down after each use is usually enough. If you use the mixer several times a week, do a more thorough cleaning of the crevices and locking collar once a month to prevent buildup. A soft brush and damp cloth take only a few minutes.

What should I do if the mixer smells like burning plastic?

Unplug the mixer when ready and let it cool for at least an hour. A burning smell usually means the motor is overheating or there is internal damage. Do not use it again until you have contacted KitchenAid or had it inspected by a repair technician.