Extend the Life of Your KitchenAid® Stand Mixer

Regular maintenance keeps your mixer running smoothly, prevents costly repairs, and helps it last for decades. Here are our top recommended tips:Daily / After Every Use

• Wipe it down immediately — Use a damp cloth to clean the head, base, and bowl after each use. Dried food residue can harden and cause issues.
• Hand-wash attachments — Never put the dough hook, beater, or whisk in the dishwasher. Hand-wash and dry thoroughly to prevent rust.
• Check for loose parts — Make sure the attachment hub, planetary shaft, and screws are tight.

Weekly / Monthly

• Clean under the head — Tilt the mixer head back and wipe away any flour or debris that collects underneath.
• Inspect the cord and plug — Look for fraying or damage. Never use a damaged power cord.
• Lubricate the planetary shaft — A tiny drop of food-grade mineral oil on the shaft (where the attachments connect) prevents sticking.

Every 6–12 Months (or After Heavy Use)

• Deep clean & re-grease — This is the #1 most important maintenance step. Old grease hardens over time and causes the motor to strain, leading to gear wear and the dreaded “burning smell.”
• Check the grease condition — If it looks dark, dry, or you hear grinding noises, it’s time for professional re-greasing.
• Inspect gears and bearings — Early replacement prevents bigger (and more expensive) failures.

Pro Tips from Your Local Repair Shop

• Avoid overloading — Don’t exceed the recommended capacity (especially with heavy dough). Use speed 2 for kneading.
• Use the right speed — Start on low and gradually increase. Never run the mixer on high when using the dough hook.
• Dough hook- never run over speed #2 when using the dough hook. Operating at higher speeds can cause premature wear or failure of the dough hook and motor.
• Store properly — Keep your mixer in a dry place with good airflow. Cover it with a dust cover when not in use.
• Replace worn feet — Slippery or missing feet cause the mixer to “walk” across the counter and put stress on internal parts.

Need professional maintenance?
Bring your mixer to Rochester Mixer Repair