KitchenAid appliances are well-known and beloved by every cook and baker. Their stand mixers are high-tech and efficient and look great on all kitchen countertops. With a reasonable one-time investment, they last for years and give you good value in exchange.
Changing their attachments is very simple. So, if you want to know how to remove paddle from KitchenAid mixer, you will be pleased to know it would barely take a minute. Here’s how you should proceed.
Steps to Remove Paddle from KitchenAid Mixer
KitchenAid mixers come with different attachments, such as dough hooks, wire whips, flat beaters, etc. You need to take them off the shaft to interchange and clean. Check out the steps down below.
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Step 1: Turn off Your Mixer
Locate the speeder on the left side of the appliance and turn it all the way down. It would make a clicking sound when it reaches the “off” position.
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Step 2: Lower the Bowl
For some expensive KitchenAid mixers, you have to lower the bowl using a release lever. To do that, you need to twist the lever back and down.
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Step 3: Tilt Back the Head
For this step, you need to unlock the head with one hand and use the other to tilt it back. There is a locking mechanism to stop the head from lowering again.
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Step 4: Remove the Paddle
Hold the paddle near the beater shaft and press it upward to push the spring back. Rotate it counterclockwise and then pull the paddle off the hook.
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Step 5: Clean
Using a damp cloth, preferably one drenched in warm water, gently wipe down the machine and around the shaft to clean off any gunk or food spills. This step is essential to increase the longevity of your precious mixer.
And there you go, quick and easy.
What to Do If Your Paddles Are Stuck?
Paddles can sometimes be difficult to remove if they get oxidized, expands due to heat, or have hardened food particles stuck. If you notice this problem, here are two methods you can follow.
Method 1: Apply Heat
You can apply heat using hot water. This method is the easiest and the most effective between the two. The step-by-step guide is given below:
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Step 1: Unplug Your Machine
Since you will be working with water, you need to ensure your machine is switched off and unplugged. The plug should be wrapped and tucked away from accidental water slips.
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Step 2: Wrap the Shaft with a Hot Towel
Soak the towel in hot water for a few minutes and wring out the excess. Press it against the shaft for the metal to expand and allow more free room to move.
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Step 3: Wiggle the Paddle
Gently try to pry off the paddle off the beater. Use sufficient pressure but not too much to accidentally damage any part. If needed, apply some torque as well. Repeat step 2 with hotter water if required before proceeding to step 3 again.
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Step 4: Clean Your Tools
Once you have successfully managed to separate them, use warm soapy water to remove any corrosion or hard particles. Wipe it dry before storing.
Method 2: Oiling
This method is best if your machine has started to rust. You can use it on its own as a follow-up to method 1.
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Step 1: Clean the Area Around the Paddle and Hook
Take a dry and clean kitchen towel and remove any debris from around the hook. Cleaning beforehand will ensure you have fewer cleanup to deal with afterward.
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Step 2: Apply Oil
Almost all oils would work here. Put in a generous amount using a basting brush or cotton ball to reach all corners and edges. Let it sit for a while for better penetration and for the particles to soften. Wiggle the paddle, and if it still seems stuck, apply more oil as necessary.
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Step 3: Remove and Clean
Hopefully, your beater will come off after a couple of attempts. With the help of warm soapy water and a sharp skewer, scrape off any particles that might have caused this problem. Clean and dry it properly to prevent rusting in the future.
Do not use too much force if your paddle seems stuck. Take it to a professional if both these methods fail. To avoid such problems, you need to properly clean and wash your attachments after every use, oil and store them.
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Final Words
KitchenAid mixers are great investments and will give you many years of service. But you need to perform regular maintenance to keep it in its best condition. And if you want to be proactive, it is best to know how to remove paddle from KitchenAid mixer beforehand, especially if they are stuck.
In this way, you will not make a wrong move and ruin your prized possession.