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From the Bench
Looking for the reason why your KitchenAid mixer is leaking oil? Or about that odd noise every now and then? Grinding, Clicking, Whining. Can't get the bowl height adjusted correctly? Check below for answers to these questions and more.
Is your beater scraping the bowl? Is it leaving excess unincorparted ingredients? This week is about adjusting the bowl height. Read on.
Let's be honest: your KitchenAid has seen some things. Cookie dough marathons. That one Thanksgiving where it groaned through triple-batch mashed potatoes. A mysterious grinding noise you've been "meaning to look into" since spring.
Well, consider this your friendly whisk to the ribs. Baking season is barreling toward us, and a mixer on its last legs is not the sous chef you want when the whole family's counting on your pie crust.
That's where The Mixer Menders come in. We're the local fix-it crew for stand mixers — KitchenAid and beyond — and we take repairs seriously without taking ourselves too seriously. Grinding gears? Slipping speeds? Cord looking a little... crispy? We'll sort it out, and we can even upgrade you to a safer 3-prong cord while we're in there.
Here's the batter-beating beauty of it: we're not tied to one shop. We've got multiple drop-off points around the area, plus remote pickups 1-2 times a month, so getting your mixer to us doesn't mean rearranging your whole week. Whether you catch us at a drop point or we swing by, we're there when you need us — not just when it's convenient for us.
Don't wait until you're elbow-deep in flour to discover your mixer's checked out. Get ahead of the rush now, while there's still time before the ovens start working overtime.
A little bonus from the owner's own kitchen. Tim, the guy behind The Mixer Menders, bakes too. And Tim will be the first to tell you: when your brain moves faster than your dishwasher, one bowl just doesn't cut it. ADHD and a single mixing bowl are not a match made in heaven — you need options, and you need them now, not after a mid-recipe scramble through the cabinets.
So Tim stocks up. Which means we stock up. Need a new/used stainless steel bowl and/or new coated or stainless steel attachments? Got 'em. Ceramic bowl for that farmhouse aesthetic? Got it. Glass bowl so you can watch the magic happen? Got it. Prefer something classic and wooden? We've got a few of those too.
Whatever your bowl situation calls for, we've probably already got it sitting on a shelf, waiting for a new kitchen to call home. No matter the need or the want, we've got you covered.
Your mixer fixed. Your bowl game upgraded. Your holidays saved. That's the whole recipe.
The Mixer Menders — we mend, you bake.
A KitchenAid mixer should not automatically be replaced because it is old, noisy, leaking, or no longer operating correctly. These mixers were built with serviceable components and can provide decades of dependable use when properly operated and maintained.
Repair may be the better choice when the mixer has been reliable, its housing is in good condition, replacement parts remain available, or the machine has sentimental value. Replacement may make more sense when there is severe structural damage, extensive corrosion, unavailable parts, or repair costs approach the price of a suitable new mixer.
You can help extend your mixer’s life at home by following a few simple practices:
Stay within the recommended capacity for your model.
Use lower speeds when mixing or kneading heavy dough.
Make sure the bowl and attachments are properly secured.
Keep the mixer clean and dry.
Wipe spills away before they enter openings or controls.
Inspect the power cord and plug for visible damage.
Allow the mixer to cool if it becomes unusually hot.
Stop using it if you notice grinding, knocking, burning odors, smoke, or unexpected speed changes.
Store it in a clean, dry location.
Before recommending repair or replacement, The Mixer Menders will inspect your mixer inside and out. Depending on the model, we examine:
Motor and motor brushes
Gears and transmission components
Bearings, bushings, and shafts
Planetary assembly
Speed-control components
Wiring, switches, cord, and plug
Attachment hub and drive components
Bowl-locking components
Beater-to-bowl clearance
Housing, frame, and fasteners
Signs of overheating, wear, corrosion, or previous improper repairs
During service, the grease, seals, and gaskets are replaced.
Before discarding a trusted mixer, let The Mixer Menders inspect it. A professional repair or rebuild may give it many more years of reliable service at less than the cost of new.
8.21.26
For more than a century, KitchenAid and Hobart stand mixers have earned a reputation that few household appliances can match. Since the introduction of the first Hobart stand mixer in 1919, these machines have become fixtures in home kitchens, bakeries, and commercial operations because they were built with durability, serviceability, and performance in mind.
Unlike many modern appliances designed for replacement (otherwise known as planned obsolescence), these stand mixers were engineered to be maintained and repaired. Their robust gear-driven systems, metal housings, and timeless designs allow them to continue performing decade after decade when properly cared for. It is not uncommon to find mixers that are 20, 30, or even 50 years old still working hard in the kitchen. And not just for baking, either.
A key factor in that longevity is regular maintenance. Over time, grease breaks down, seals wear, and gaskets can lose their effectiveness. Routine service helps prevent unnecessary wear on internal components and keeps the mixer operating smoothly and efficiently. Much like changing the oil in a vehicle, preventive maintenance can significantly extend the life of a stand mixer.
At The Mixer Menders, we believe quality repairs start with quality components. That's why we use OEM parts, seals, and gaskets whenever possible, along with premium food-grade grease specifically recommended for stand mixer applications. Using the correct materials helps ensure proper performance, reliability, and food safety.
When maintained correctly, a KitchenAid or Hobart stand mixer can continue serving generation after generation. That's a recipe for longevity that's hard to beat. After all, a well-maintained mixer is the secret ingredient that helps every kitchen rise to the occasion.
Why Maintenance is Important
Kitchen appliances are no exception. Plastic gears, sealed components, proprietary electronics, and limited parts availability can turn a minor issue into a costly replacement. Fortunately, many KitchenAid stand mixers — especially older models — remain highly serviceable and repair-friendly when properly maintained. According to KitchenAid Product Help, proper operation, routine inspection, and maintenance can help preserve performance and reduce wear over time.
One of the most important maintenance items for a stand mixer is grease service. The food-grade grease inside the gearbox can separate or dry out over the years, particularly if the mixer sits unused for extended periods. Routine cleaning, lubrication, and inspection of gears and fasteners can prevent larger failures later.
The same philosophy applies to coffee makers, blenders, food processors, and other countertop appliances. Keeping vents clear, avoiding motor overload, and checking cords for damage can significantly extend appliance life. The National Fire Protection Association also recommends regularly inspecting electrical appliances and power cords for safety.
At The Mixer Menders, we believe repair and maintenance help fight unnecessary waste while keeping trusted appliances working for years to come.
“The Dime Test: Fix Your KitchenAid Mixer in 60 Seconds”
If your KitchenAid stand mixer is leaving ingredients unmixed at the bottom—or making a scraping noise—you may just need a quick adjustment. The dime test is a simple, reliable way to set the correct beater-to-bowl clearance, which directly impacts mixing performance, motor load, and long-term durability.
Place a dime in the bottom of your mixing bowl. Attach the flat beater and run the mixer on Speed 1.
✔️ Correct setting: the dime moves slightly (about 1/4 inch per rotation)
❌ Too low: the dime moves aggressively or the beater hits the bowl
❌ Too high: the dime doesn’t move at all
This quick test ensures your mixer is calibrated for optimal performance.
The gap between the beater and the bowl controls how efficiently ingredients are mixed:
Too high → ingredients sit at the bottom and don’t incorporate
Too low → scraping, noise, and premature wear on internal gears
Just right → smooth mixing, better results, and longer mixer life
Proper adjustment reduces strain on the transmission and helps prevent costly repairs.
Unplug the mixer
Tilt the head back
Locate the adjustment screw under the head hinge
Turn:
Clockwise = lowers beater
Counterclockwise = raises beater
Lower the head and repeat the dime test
Unplug the mixer
Lower the bowl
Locate the adjustment screw near the lift arms
Turn:
Clockwise = raises bowl
Counterclockwise = lowers bowl
Raise the bowl and repeat the dime test
Check your beater height periodically—especially after mixing heavy doughs. A properly adjusted mixer not only performs better but also protects internal components from unnecessary wear.
Need help or a professional tune-up? The Mixer Menders are ready to get your KitchenAid running like new.
03/16/2026
A guide from The Mixer Menders
KitchenAid stand mixers are known for their versatility, and one of the easiest ways to personalize your mixer is by choosing the right mixing bowl. Today there are several bowl materials available, including stainless steel, glass, ceramic, and even handcrafted wooden bowls. Each type offers its own advantages depending on how you bake and cook.
If you are deciding which bowl belongs on your mixer, it helps to understand how each material performs in everyday kitchen use.
Before jumping in, I should mention that I own and regularly use wooden, stainless steel, ceramic, and glass bowls. Over time I’ve learned that each one has its strengths depending on the recipe—from hearty sourdough to soft snickerdoodle cookies to cake batter and just about everything else you can mix in a stand mixer. BUT, I will also say that while the wooden bowl adds a touch of warmth to the decor, I have only used it once so far.
Hopefully the blog below gives you a clearer picture of the different mixer bowls and helps you decide which ones belong in your kitchen as you continue your journey toward becoming the baker extraordinaire we all know you can be.
Stainless steel is the most common bowl used with stand mixers and is the standard choice in many professional kitchens. It is durable, relatively lightweight, and designed to handle everything from light cake batter to dense bread dough.
One of the biggest advantages of stainless steel is its durability. The material resists cracking, chipping, and staining, and it can withstand years of heavy mixing. Stainless bowls are also lighter than glass or ceramic options, making them easier to handle when working with large batches.
Another benefit is how well stainless steel handles temperature changes. The bowl quickly adapts to ingredient temperatures, which can be helpful when whipping cream or egg whites. For many bakers, stainless steel bowls are the dependable workhorse of the mixer world. They can TAKE A BEATING AND KEEP ON BEATING, making them the true BREAD AND BUTTER of stand mixer bowls.
Glass bowls offer something stainless steel cannot: full visibility during mixing. Many glass stand mixer bowls include measurement markings, allowing ingredients to be added directly into the bowl with greater accuracy.
Because the bowl is transparent, it is easier to monitor the mixing process and spot ingredients that may be clinging to the sides. Bakers who like to watch their recipes come together often appreciate being able to see every stage of the mixing process.
Glass bowls are heavier than stainless steel and should be handled with care, but they provide a clean, polished look that many kitchens appreciate. For those who enjoy keeping an eye on their batter before it is HALF BAKED, a glass bowl can be a very practical option.
Ceramic bowls have become popular because they combine functionality with style. These bowls are typically thicker and heavier than stainless or glass options and are often available in decorative finishes that add personality to a mixer.
The heavier construction helps ceramic bowls retain temperature well, which can be useful for certain baking tasks. They also resist staining and odors, making them suitable for a wide variety of recipes.
Many bakers enjoy ceramic bowls simply because they make the mixer stand out on the countertop. When form meets function this well, it is easy to see why ceramic bowls continue to RISE TO THE OCCASION in modern kitchens.
Wooden bowls are a more unique option and are usually produced by specialty makers rather than large manufacturers. Crafted from hardwoods such as walnut or maple, these bowls highlight natural materials and traditional craftsmanship.
Each wooden bowl has its own grain pattern and character, which makes it appealing to those who enjoy artisan kitchen tools. The natural material also adds warmth and visual interest to the mixer, making it feel less like an appliance and more like a centerpiece.
Although wooden bowls are often chosen for their appearance, they also represent a connection to traditional baking tools. In a kitchen that values craftsmanship and natural materials, a wooden bowl can really ADD SOME FLAVOR TO THE MIX.
The best bowl ultimately depends on how a mixer is used in the kitchen. Stainless steel remains the most durable and versatile choice for everyday mixing and heavy dough work. Glass bowls appeal to bakers who want visibility and measurement markings during preparation. Ceramic bowls combine performance with decorative style, while wooden bowls offer a unique handcrafted aesthetic.
Many home bakers end up using more than one type of bowl depending on the recipe. After all, selecting the right bowl is just another way to WHISK YOUR MIXER TO ITS FULL POTENTIAL.
Taking care of your mixer bowls will help them last for many years and maintain their appearance and performance.
Stainless steel bowls are generally the easiest to maintain and can tolerate frequent washing and everyday use without much concern. Glass bowls should be handled carefully to prevent accidental impact or chipping, particularly around the rim and base. Ceramic bowls benefit from gentle handling as well, especially those with decorative finishes that you may want to preserve.
Wooden bowls require the most attention because natural materials can react to moisture and temperature changes. Proper cleaning and drying help maintain the integrity of the wood and preserve the unique character of each bowl.
With a little care and attention, each of these bowls can remain a reliable partner in the kitchen for years of mixing, whipping, and kneading.
A stand mixer is built to last for decades, and the bowl you choose can influence how enjoyable it is to use. Whether you prefer the durability of stainless steel, the clarity of glass, the beauty of ceramic, or the craftsmanship of wood, each option brings something valuable to the kitchen.
And when it comes to keeping your mixer running smoothly, The Mixer Menders are always here to help. Because when your mixer is performing the way it should, every recipe has the chance to turn out BATTER THAN EXPECTED.
03/07/2026
Why is my KitchenAid Stand Mixer leaking oil?
KitchenAid stand mixers are built to last for decades, but one issue owners often notice over time is oil or dark grease leaking from the mixer head or planetary area. In most cases, this indicates that the internal gearbox grease has aged and begun to separate.
Inside every stand mixer is a transmission filled with food-grade grease that lubricates the gear train transferring power from the motor to the planetary drive. As this grease ages, the oil component can separate from the thickener and migrate through the mixer housing, creating the familiar symptom of a KitchenAid mixer leaking oil.
Several factors contribute to grease breakdown:
age of the grease
heat generated by the motor and gearbox
long periods of inactivity
heavy dough loads
repeated temperature changes in kitchen environments
When the lubricant separates, the transmission is no longer receiving optimal lubrication. This can affect several internal components.
Gears rely on consistent lubrication to prevent excessive wear and heat buildup. When grease deteriorates, increased friction can accelerate gear wear and create noise or vibration.
Bearings and shafts depend on stable lubrication films. As grease breaks down, friction can increase, placing additional stress on rotating components and shortening their service life.
Seals also age along with the grease. Over time they can harden or lose elasticity, allowing oil seepage to occur and reducing the ability of the gearbox to retain lubrication.
In many cases, the leaking oil eventually migrates past the motor/transmission seal and through the mixer housing. While the transmission is separate from the motor, excessive seepage can eventually reach internal motor components.
Stand mixers used for food preparation require food-grade lubricant specifically formulated for mixer gearboxes. This type of grease is designed to withstand the operating loads, temperatures, and rotational forces present inside a stand mixer while also meeting food-safety standards.
Using the correct grease is important for several reasons:
Food safety compliance if trace amounts migrate toward the planetary area
Proper viscosity and shear stability for mixer gear trains
Protection against gear wear and bearing stress
Resistance to oil separation and breakdown over time
Using improper or general-purpose grease can lead to premature lubricant separation, inadequate protection of gears and bearings, and increased seepage.
Because leaking oil typically indicates aging grease, all seals should be replaced during a grease service. Servicing the lubricant without addressing worn seals can allow seepage to return prematurely.
During a grease service, The Mixer Menders performs a complete inspection of the entire mixer, evaluating the condition of the gears, seals, bearings, shafts, and related components. If any deficiencies are identified, clear communication is provided so owners understand the condition of their mixer and any recommended service.
A KitchenAid mixer leaking oil is often simply a sign that the internal grease has reached the end of its service life. Addressing the grease and seals together helps protect the gearbox and motor, allowing these durable mixers to continue operating reliably for many years.
