So have you decided to buy a stand mixer? Congratulations! You have made the right decision. A stand mixer is one of the most important kitchen appliances. It is an all in one device, meaning it can do multiple things including blending, mixing, kneading, and whipping. Additionally, a stand mixer is much more powerful than a standard food mixer and can easily mix heavier ingredients at varying speeds for optimum results. However, the stand mixer that you purchase will determine the quality of results you will get when preparing food in your kitchen. If you want to get excellent results, you need to purchase a high-quality stand mixer. In this article, we will give you tips on what to look for when buying a stand mixer.
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Consider Size and Weight
One of the most important things to consider when buying a stand mixer its size and weight. It is important to buy a stand mixer that is compact and sturdy. The last thing you want is buying a stand mixer that wobbles vigorously while operating. You need to buy a mixer that is heavy enough so that it does not bounce on the counter while operating. Generally, a good mixer should weigh around 20 pounds. This weight is good enough to enable the mixer to do its job without wobbling, especially when mixing thick ingredients. When you buy a stand mixer that is lighter than 20 pounds, then you have to keep an eye on it every time it is operating because it may bounce on the counter and fall down.
It is also important to consider the stand mixer size. Some important factors to consider when buying a stand mixer include how much you are hoping to make on the mixer and your kitchen space. Choose a mixer that meets your individual mixing needs and can comfortably fit in your kitchen. For instance, if you are hoping to bake for a large group of people and have a large kitchen space, then you should buy a large capacity stand mixer.
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Consider Motor Power
Another crucial factor to consider when buying a stand mixer is the motor power. Generally, the more powerful the motor is, the easier and wider the range of the ingredients the mixer can handle. If you are planning to mixer tougher ingredients, you should choose a stand mixer that is equipped with a powerful motor to crush the ingredients with ease. The general guideline when it comes to motor power is to choose the more powerful stand mixer in your budget range.
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Consider Features
Stand mixers come with their own unique set of features. There are some features that are common in all stand mixers while others vary depending on the model you choose. When buying a stand mixer, ensure that it has all features that are important to you. For instance, if you are planning to prepare dough frequently, you should buy a stand mixer that has a powerful motor and multiple speed settings.
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Consider Attachments
The attachments that the stand mixer is equipped with will determine your overall experience when using this kitchen appliance. Certain attachments are supplied as basic, such as the blade and bowl. However, some attachments vary depending on the model you purchase. For instance, some stand mixers come with additional attachments such as a dough hook, balloon whisk, splash guard, a flat beater, and much more. Before you make your final decision, check if the affordable stand mixer has all attachments that are crucial for you. For instance, if you are planning to knead dough frequently, you should choose a stand mixer that comes dough hook and flat beater.
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Consider Ease of Cleaning
Unlike hand mixers that have fewer attachments, stand mixers have more attachments, meaning you will end up with many different pieces to clean after use. Therefore, when choosing a stand mixer, it is important to consider its ease of cleaning. One of the best ways to know if the stand mixer is easy to clean is if the stand mixer is dishwasher safe. If the stand mixer is dishwasher safe, it means that you can easily toss its attachments on your dishwasher for quick cleaning, thus making your cleaning easier and stress-free. Some stand mixer also comes with special cleaning brushes for easy cleaning of parts that cannot be washed by a machine such as a mixer bowl. If you don’t want to have a hard time when it comes to cleaning, choose a stand mixer that is easy to clean.
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Consider Noise Level
Generally, stand mixers are loud. However, some models are noisier than others. If you are sensitive to noisy appliances, you should buy a stand mixer that is quieter. Most brands today are striving to make their stand mixers more efficient and quieter. However, most models on the market are quite loud. Before you make your final decision, read customer reviews, and choose a stand mixer that customers recommend as being quieter.
In conclusion, the stand mixer that you choose matters a lot because it determines the quality of results you will get. When shopping for a cheap stand mixer, choose one that is equipped with all the crucial features that are important for you.
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