A stand mixer is a long-term kitchen investment. The difference between one that lasts 3 years and one that lasts 15 usually comes down to one thing: how well it’s maintained. Here’s everything you need to do — and what to avoid — to keep your mixer performing like new.
After Every Use: The Non-Negotiables
1. Remove and clean attachments immediately
Dough, batter, and cream dry hard very quickly — particularly in the crevices of the dough hook and the wire loops of the whisk. Remove all attachments immediately after use and rinse under warm water before anything sets. On Aucma 7.4QT and 8QT models, all attachments are fully dishwasher safe.
2. Clean the bowl
Wash the stainless steel bowl with warm soapy water, or place in the dishwasher if your model supports it. Dry thoroughly before storing — residual moisture can cause water spots over time.
3. Wipe the motor head and body
Use a damp (not wet) cloth to wipe the exterior of the motor head and body. Pay particular attention to the area around the attachment hub. Never submerge the motor head in water.
4. Clean the attachment hub
The hub is a common place for dried dough to accumulate. After removing the attachment, clean with a dry brush or slightly damp cotton bud. Dried buildup here can make attachments harder to insert and remove over time.
Critical: Never put the motor head or base unit in water or in the dishwasher. Water ingress into the motor or electronics causes permanent, irreparable damage not covered by warranty.
Weekly Maintenance (For Frequent Bakers)
- Check and clean the bowl attachment locking pins — dried batter can make the bowl harder to lock/unlock.
- Inspect the hinge mechanism for flour or batter accumulation around the pivot point; clean with a dry brush.
Monthly Preventative Care
- Clean suction cup feet — remove any grease film to restore their grip on the countertop.
- Inspect attachments for wear — check for coating deterioration and bent or broken whisk wires.
How to Store a Stand Mixer
- Ensure the motor head is fully lowered and locked before storing.
- Store attachments in the bowl rather than loose in a drawer to prevent damage.
- Keep the power cord loosely coiled — tight wrapping fatigues the cable over time.
- Store in a dry location — humidity is the enemy of any appliance with metal components.
- Place a cloth over the mixer for extended storage to keep dust out of the hub.
What NOT to Do
- Don’t overfill the bowl — exceeding maximum capacity strains the motor and can cause permanent damage.
- Don’t run continuously for more than 10 minutes — allow 2–3 minutes of rest between sessions for very long tasks.
- Don’t use the dough hook at high speeds — keep dough tasks to Speeds 1–3 maximum.
- Don’t leave wet attachments on the machine — water in the hub causes surface corrosion over time.
- Don’t use abrasive cleaners on the body or bowl — scratches are irreversible.
📖 Related: Why Is My Stand Mixer So Loud? Causes & Fixes
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you clean a stand mixer? Remove all attachments and the bowl and wash separately. Wipe the motor head with a damp cloth — never submerge it. Clean the attachment hub with a dry brush. Dry everything thoroughly before reassembling.
How long should a stand mixer last? A well-maintained stand mixer with quality copper motor construction should last 10–15 years or more with regular home use.
Should you oil a stand mixer? The gear system is factory-lubricated and sealed — you should not need to add oil during normal use. If you notice grinding, contact the manufacturer rather than attempting to add lubricant yourself.
Can you put stand mixer attachments in the dishwasher? On Aucma 7.4QT and 8QT models, all three attachments are fully dishwasher safe. Always check your specific model’s documentation to confirm.