Hand mixers and stand mixers are the two basic kinds of kitchen mixers that are available nowadays. Although different, they function on the same concept: a set of beaters powered by gears that run on mechanical energy that is converted from the electricity supplied to it. The ways in which you plan to use your mixer will determine which of the two types you should purchase.
If you’re looking to make an economical purchase and prefer a smaller sized machine, then you should consider hand mixers. You can even opt for those that use batteries. Assuming you’ll only be dealing with small amounts and baking items such as cakes, brownies or cookies, then this kind of mixer is suitable for you. This is provided you are only doing basic whipping and nothing too fancy.
For those who plan to use their mixer fairly often, stand mixers would be a good choice. As compared to a hand mixer, it has a bulkier build and its motor has a greater capacity, especially for handling larger quantities. If you’re working on recipes where ingredients need to be added in one by one, it is very useful. This kind of mixer is suitable for more complicated baking feats such as bread making and you should consider it if you intend to work on these kind of recipes. These mixers typically come with the mixing bowl also, and you can buy other attachments as add-ons. It will consequently increase the number of things that can be done with the mixer concerned.
When it comes to the issue of finding a good mixer for yourself, the basis for your decision remains the same, whether you get a stand mixer or a hand held one.
It’s important to be aware of which good brands are currently available in the market. Do all the necessary research you need to find out what are the outstanding features that these brands have that set them above the rest. Even though they may be more expensively priced, it may be worthwhile choosing to buy products from these brands since they are probably more durable and reliable than others.
You should be certain of what weight and size you’d like for your mixer. Don’t forget to take note of whether the mixer you’re considering can fit well into your kitchen. The one that you finally purchase should be able to be stored without too much fuss, given the amount of space you have allotted for it.
Just as important for you to consider is the issue of performance. Look at how much wattage and speed settings the mixer you’re considering has. You can expect a range of three to fifteen speeds for most stand mixers. If the mixer has more speeds, then you are able to control it better; that is, it would be more flexible. How much capacity the mixer can handle is also another issue. In some cases, a stand mixer may be sold with mixing bowls of different sizes. Take time to examine how the mixer’s beater style and motion is like by asking for a demonstration. Mixers can also come with various types of controls such as dials, push buttons, switches, slide controls or touchpads with digital display. If having a timer feature is crucial for you, you might need to look out for that too. However, hunting for a product that is can be handled easily is more important than some of these other features.
Once you have purchased the mixer of your choice, ensure that you take steps to take good care of it. It is advisable to wash the beaters by hand, unless they are made of stainless steel. Do check whether the materials that your mixer is made of will get discoloured when cleaned with detergents. For stand mixers, wipe the base of the machine with a damp cloth after use. Be careful not to let water seep into the motor of the mixer, otherwise it may get spoiled. For hand mixers, make sure to inspect the batteries periodically. Keep the mixer away from the stove or other sources of direct heat to lengthen its lifetime. Avoid overloading the mixer too, whenever you use it.
No kitchen is complete without the presence of a mixer. If you have yet to own one, you really should make it a point to go out and buy it. All the efforts you put into the decision of which is the best one for you will definitely pay off in the end. You can look forward to countless good memories in the kitchen, only if you remember to look after your mixer to keep it functioning at optimal performance.
