5 Things To Consider Before Buying A KitchenAid Stand Mixer
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One of the biggest kitchen investments one can make is a KitchenAid stand mixer. It's not just a fixture on our counters—it's a major flex. The iconic design now comes in countless colors and even features limited-edition bowls (like this chic wooden one launched in 2024).
Everybody—from novice bakers to experienced pastry chefs—loves their KitchenAid stand mixer. Investing in one for your own home is a culinary rite of passage. But since it'll set you back several hundred dollars, you want to make sure that you're buying the best model.
It's easy to get distracted by the adorable colors and exciting attachments, but there are a few things you should consider before you break out your credit card. The right model will vary from household to household, so we're rounding up everything you should consider before buying a KitchenAid stand mixer.
Check The Size Before You Buy
The best KitchenAid for your home is a personal decision. There are a few things worth considering about your baking habits before you buy—and one of the most important is the capacity.
KitchenAid offers different models with bowl sizes ranging from 3.5 to 8 quarts. If you tend to take on large baking projects, you may be better off with a larger capacity mixer. But, if you live in a smaller space and make treats one batch at a time, you can definitely opt for a smaller model.
Think About The Motor
Just how much horsepower do you need from your stand mixer? It comes down to what you like to make. Simple recipes for cakes, cookies, and frosting can be easily executed with any KitchenAid model. But if you’re looking to knead bread and pasta dough, some stand mixers are better than others.
The Artisan is one of the more popular models offered by KitchenAid. At a wattage of 325, however, it’s not designed for heavy duty baking projects. Bowl Lift-style models have a 500 watt motor that is better suited for more heavy-duty bakers.
Look Into The Attachments
A KitchenAid stand mixer does a lot more than just mixing. The brand offers a wide variety of attachments that tackle nearly every kitchen task. You can grind meat, churn ice cream, roll fresh pasta, and so much more.
The attachments don’t always come cheap, but think of it like this: an attachment is often smaller and more affordable than buying a separate appliance that accomplishes the same result. So you’re saving money and counter space.
Consider Buying A Refurbished Model
KitchenAid mixers have become family heirlooms for a reason—they’re pricey. The brand offers different financing options for buying a new stand mixer. But if you’re baking on a budget and want to buy a stand mixer, you should take a look at their refurbished options.
KitchenAid thoroughly tests and restores unused or lightly used models until they work just like a new mixer—at a fraction of the price. Depending on the one you buy, you can save up to $300.
Invest In Accessories
A stand mixer may be the “best kitchen aid,” but you can make it even better by investing in the right accessories. One that we think everybody should buy is the pouring shield that attaches to the rim of your bowl. It includes a helpful funnel to add ingredients and prevents spillage.
Planning on keeping your KitchenAid on the counter? It’s also worth buying the matching lid to protect your bowl from dust and splatters between uses. These upgrades are by no means mandatory, but they can make your stand mixer experience even more enjoyable.
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