KitchenAid mixers are essentially the gold medals of the kitchen. They can be used for mixing cookie dough, grinding meat, and even making fresh, homemade pasta – with the right attachments, of course.
While these state-of-the-art appliances are undeniably versatile and reliable, they come with a price tag that some might think is outrageous. Why spend so much money on a kitchen gadget when it might not even last that long?
Well, let me stop you right there. KitchenAid mixers can easily last 10 to 15 years. With exceptional care, they can even last up to 30 years. So while the initial price may be steep, these are impressively long-lasting gadgets you won’t have to worry about buying again anytime soon.
Hey! I’m Michelle, a big fan of KitchenAid mixers (and the company’s other products, like the mixing bowls). I was curious to learn how long my KitchenAid mixer would truly last, and I’m here to share my findings.
Let’s talk about the KitchenAid mixer’s lifespan!
Contents
How Long Do KitchenAid Mixers Last?
KitchenAid mixers have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. However, plenty of users have claimed that their mixers have lasted much longer. With that in mind, proper care can easily extend the lifespan to up to 30 years (and beyond).
Of course, your KitchenAid mixer’s longevity will depend on three main factors: how often you use it, how well you take care of it, and what you use it for.
For example, someone who uses their KitchenAid mixer once a month can easily enjoy their mixer for 20 or more years. Someone who uses the mixer daily for strenuous projects may tap out at the ten-year mark.
Why Do KitchenAid Mixers Last So Long?
Ten years? Fifteen years? These are pretty impressive numbers. How do KitchenAid mixers last so long – much longer than less expensive, run-of-the-mill stand mixers? It’s all thanks to the high-quality materials used in making these made-in-the-USA mixers.
The exterior of KitchenAid mixers is crafted using a cast zinc alloy rather than plastic which is far more common among stand mixers. It’s painted with a baked enamel finish, ensuring it won’t succumb to chips and scratches anytime soon, too.
Not only does the zinc-alloy exterior ensure spectacular durability and stability, but it also keeps the interior electrical components safe while reducing hassling and excessive vibrations. This means you won’t have to worry about wires going haywire a few months after purchase.
Speaking of electrical components, KitchenAid mixers are designed with “Grade F” insulation to encapsulate further and keep wires protected. Paired with a powerful motor and strategically placed cooling fan, the interior is kept in pristine condition, even several years down the road.
With so much thought (and money) going into each KitchenAid mixer, it’s clear why these stand mixers rise above the competition – especially when it comes to longevity.
6 Tips to Make KitchenAid Mixer Last Longer
Even with regular use and minimal maintenance, your KitchenAid mixer should easily last to the ten-year mark. But if you want to get the most prolonged use from your KitchenAid mixer, you need to be proactive. Here are some top ways to extend the life of your mixer.
1. Read the Instruction Manual
KitchenAid mixers come with an instruction manual for a reason. While it may be tempting to pull it out of the box and get to work immediately, the better option is to read through the instruction manual to ensure you’re using it correctly.
2. Clean After Each Use
Like all your other kitchen tools, gadgets, pots, and pans, your KitchenAid mixer needs to be cleaned after each use.
Remove any attachments and hand wash as much as you can. Only use the dishwasher for dishwasher-safe items and accessories. Wipe down the machine regularly.
3. Use Compatible Attachments Only
One of the perks of going the KitchenAid route is that there are so many excellent attachments (over 40!). While opting for cheaper knockoffs might seem like a good idea, you may be doing your KitchenAid mixer a disservice. Only use compatible attachments.
4. Prevent Overheating
Although KitchenAid mixers are designed with a powerful fan and auto-shutoff to avoid overheating, that doesn’t mean you should take your mixer to the limits. Prevent overheating by giving your mixer frequent breaks and using slower speeds when possible.
5. Re-Grease Annually
Gears are essential for the operation of your KitchenAid mixer, but they can lose their grease over time. Re-grease your model annually to avoid potential problems. You can do it on your own or have it professionally done.
6. Get Professional Maintenance When Necessary
If your KitchenAid mixer starts having problems, such as a grease leak or worn-down gear system, it’s imperative to get it professionally maintained ASAP. This will cut down on further issues while also keeping your mixer in tip-top shape, extending its longevity.
FAQs
Now you’re equipped with two essential things: the answer to “How long do KitchenAid mixers last?” and, more importantly, how to make sure your KitchenAid mixer has the most extended lifespan possible. If you want to learn more, here are a few more questions to check out!
Do KitchenAid mixers need maintenance?
KitchenAid mixers are very durable and reliable, but they’re not immune to problems. While KitchenAid mixers don’t have too many significant issues, they still need maintenance now and then.
How long does a KitchenAid Artisan mixer last?
The KitchenAid Artisan mixer is said to last “forever” with proper care and maintenance. While it likely could, KitchenAid Artisan mixers have the same approximate lifespan – 10 to 15 years (or more).
Is there a lifetime warranty on KitchenAid mixers?
Unfortunately, the KitchenAid mixer warranty doesn’t exist. They come with a limited warranty, typically one or two years. That’s why it is recommended to use it regularly during the warrantied timeframe to discover any severe damages or problems that need replacing.
Can a KitchenAid mixer overheat?
A KitchenAid mixer can overheat, especially if you’re using it for an extensive amount of time and trying to mix a heavy dough or batter. Use the slow speed as much as possible and offer breaks for your mixer to avoid this issue.
KitchenAid Mixers Have Quite an Impressive Longevity
KitchenAid mixers can easily last 10 to 15 years, with many users claiming up to 30 years or more with proper care and maintenance. With that in mind, a KitchenAid mixer is a wonderful investment – and you will undoubtedly get your money’s worth from this appliance.
Do you own a KitchenAid mixer? How long have you had yours? Share in the comments
About Michelle
Susan
I owned a K-5 Kitchen Aid lift type stand mixer. I made 2 loaves of bread every week and mixed meatloaf regularly along with many other favorite meals and treats for over 13 years before it needed to be serviced. Then, the bushings had to be replaced. After that, my kitchen adventures slowed down. But, that durable mixer helped me make 4+wedding cakes and was still used weekly for another 17 years at which time I chose to retire that mixer. I wanted to buy another Kitchen Aid mixer because of the 30 years it reliably served me.
Michelle
Hey, Susan!
Wow, that’s awesome! Kitchen Aid mixers are definitely long-lasting and reliable.
JCloutier
I received my KitchenAid mixer as a wedding present from my parents. I’ve been married 29 and a half years and both the KitchenAid and the marriage still going strong. I have had to buy a new flat beater to replace one that started peeling, but that’s it!
Michelle
Hi!
So happy to hear that your mixer and marriage are both going strong!
LJ
My aunt bought our Kitchen Aid in 1968. She used it almost every day. I inherited it in 1991. My husband repacked it with food grade grease and warned me the brushes are close to worn out. That was 31 years ago and we still use it almost every day. My youngest son said” Mom, when you’re gone, I get the mixer, right?”
Michelle
Hi!
Aww, I love that! Super cool.
Barry
My late mother had a kitchen aid mixer as long as I can remember. When she died in 1985 I got it. It is still going strong and used regularly. For those not sharp with math, I have used it 37 years after mom used it at least 20 or so.
Michelle
Wow!
That’s amazing, Barry! Thanks for sharing.
Krista
We still use the one my mother got in 1975.
Kathy
I bought my KitchenAid stand mixer in 1976 when my daughters were 2 & 4. It has been used regularly and made tons of cookies, cakes, breads, I have the grinder attachment and have made my own ground meats and sausages. I love it. It was the best investment ever. 46 years old and still going! Knock on wood!
Michelle
Wow, 46 years and still going strong.
That’s great, Kathy!
Deb
I’ve had my kitchen aid mixer for 35 years. This year my husband is going to take it apart to grease it and possibly replace the gears. I love it. I bought one of the new larger mixers but didn’t like it as well as my old one so I returned it.
Michelle
Hey, Deb!
That’s a really long time! Awesome!!
Don
Where can you buy repair parts for the mixer
Michelle
Hi Don,
I’d check here: https://www.kitchenaidparts.com/ or get in contact with customer service.
Charles
I purchased my kitchenaid 30 years ago from Service Merchandise.
It is ant artisan in cobalt blue. Never an issue as of yet. I make my own pastries, breads and batters. I also grind my own sausage among many other routine chores. I do not use it every day but I have easily used my machine a thousand times.
I just purchased a 7 quart mixer w/a 500 watt motor. ( artisan is 300 watt.)
I made cookies the first day and later a pizza dough.
Not good. Trying both speeds, one and two, the mixer struggled horribly and finally stopped.
I’ve been making these pizza doughs for years with no trouble aside from the occasional flour over the side of the bowl.
( hence I purchased 7 quart for my Christmas present)
I’m not impressed. I hope to resolve. I will mention my experience in another post.
Michelle
Hi Charles,
Sorry to hear about that. Thank you for sharing!
Bonny
I’m 72. I purchased my KitchenAid stand mixer in 1981. I loved to bake so I was terribly excited about this purchase. I can testify that these mixers have incredible longevity. About 30 minutes ago I finished kneading the dough for two loaves of bread in that same mixer. I have gotten an incredible amount of use out of it. It now has a few scratches on it but works well and I hope it will last as long as I do. I don’t bake or even cook as much as I once did as I live alone but for the first 20 years I baked or used it daily. It’s really a work horse.
Michelle
Hi Bonny,
Wow! That’s great! So happy to hear it’s still working well for you.
Ron B Linden
My wife and I are currently using my mothers kitchen aid that she purchased in 1962 or 63
Michelle
Hi Ron,
Wow, that is very impressive! Thanks for sharing.
Sonja
I have my moms kitchenaid that dad bought for her in the late 60s or early 70s. It works well. When she wanted a different color, she gave it to my niece. I now have it back. One i bought maybe 10 years ago is not made the same. It shakes while using and the bolt that holds the top part together works it’s way out. Whirlpool does not make them the same as the originals.
Michelle
Hi Sonja,
Very cool! KitchenAids are definitely top-tier and long-lasting.
Tonja
Mine is 75th anniversary model. 1994. Works as good as day I bought. I use it at least 5 times a week. I made tons of bread and cookies. I will never own any other brand
Michelle
Hi Tonja,
Wow, that’s amazing! Thank you for sharing!
Jim Potter
I have my grandmother’s KitchenAid model K45, I use it regularly. She used nearly every day (she baked cakes for a local restaurant). I don’t know when she bought it. I’m guessing it’s 50 to 60 years old.
Michelle
Hi Jim,
Wow! That’s great! Thanks for sharing.
Sheila
Three Christmases ago I received a KitchenAid mixer and fell in love with it immediately. To me it isn’t a gadget, but a tool, the same as my KitchenAid range. That beautiful, purring, red machine is downright fun!
Michelle
Hi, Sheila,
I agree! KitchenAid mixers are wonderful.
Risa Orlik
When I moved to Nevada the summer of 2014, my Kitchen Aid Classic Stand Mixer was stored in my garage for about 6 months, then moved into my kitchen cupboard. It was some time after that, when I went to use it, that I found oil had leaked into the bowl as it sat in my cupboard. Not knowing what to do, I just put it back in the cupboard. Now I’m wondering if it is still usable and what I would need to do. Where is the nearest service center to Las Vegas, Nevada?
Michelle
Hi Risa,
I found these repair centers on Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Kitchenaid+Repair&find_loc=Las+Vegas%2C+NV
Hope this helps
Helen mcvicar
My kitchen aid mixer is nearly fifty years old it just died it had never needed repair in all those years I just ordered a new one unfortunately they are not built as good
Michelle
Hi, Helen!
Wow, 50 years, that’s great! Enjoy your new product!
Clayton
Hello Helen,
Helen your old mixer can easily be repaired if you still have it. I recently regreased, and updated the speed control on my 50 year old K5-A mixer to Solid State, installed a new set of brushes too. If I had to guess why your’s quit I would say your brushes are worn out and have lost contact with the armature. Let me know if you want help repairing it.