In general, there are two types of kitchen mixers: hand mixers and stand mixers. Both work on the same principal of a motor that converts the electricity channelled to it into mechanical energy to run gears controlling a set of beaters. Which type of mixer you should buy really depends on what you intend to use it for.
The cheaper option of the two mixers would be hand mixers, which are of a smaller stature. Some products of this sort are even run by batteries. If you only intend to make small quantities of cakes, brownies or cookies, then this is the best option for you. This is assuming that you will mostly be doing simple whipping tasks and not much more than that.
For frequent users, stand mixers are worth considering. Besides being larger in size, it also possesses a motor with greater power levels in comparison to a hand mixer. Not only is it better for handling larger quantities, it is easier to use for recipes where ingredients need to be added in gradually. For recipes that are more complex such as bread making, stand mixers are best. A mixing bowl should be included in the package whenever you buy this type of mixer. You may also like to consider getting extra attachments so that you can use your mixer to do more.
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.
Survey the market to discover the currently recommended brands out there. There are reasons why these brands stand out in the market and it would be helpful for you if you are able to identify what they are. Such products will undoubtedly be more steeply priced, yet they are still worth considering since it's better to get a mixer whose performance is dependable and can stand the test of time.
The weight and sizes of mixers may vary from one product to another, so you need to know what is ideal for your purposes. Take into consideration the amount of storage space you have in your kitchen as well when selecting the mixer. Make sure you have enough room to snugly house the mixer of your choice.
Performance-wise, you need to look at the wattage and the number of speed settings that the mixer has. Stand mixers can have anywhere between three to fifteen speeds. The more speeds that a mixer has, the more flexible it will be. You will then have more control on how it operates. Examine what kind of capacity the product can handle also. Some stand mixers come with several different bowl sizes. Ask for an opportunity to test run the product and observe what the beater style and motion is like. Take note what sort of controls the mixer has too - whether it has a dial, push buttons, switches, slide control or a touchpad with digital display. Check also for any timer features. Above all, have an eye out for products that are easy to operate.
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.
The cheaper option of the two mixers would be hand mixers, which are of a smaller stature. Some products of this sort are even run by batteries. If you only intend to make small quantities of cakes, brownies or cookies, then this is the best option for you. This is assuming that you will mostly be doing simple whipping tasks and not much more than that.
For frequent users, stand mixers are worth considering. Besides being larger in size, it also possesses a motor with greater power levels in comparison to a hand mixer. Not only is it better for handling larger quantities, it is easier to use for recipes where ingredients need to be added in gradually. For recipes that are more complex such as bread making, stand mixers are best. A mixing bowl should be included in the package whenever you buy this type of mixer. You may also like to consider getting extra attachments so that you can use your mixer to do more.
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.
Survey the market to discover the currently recommended brands out there. There are reasons why these brands stand out in the market and it would be helpful for you if you are able to identify what they are. Such products will undoubtedly be more steeply priced, yet they are still worth considering since it's better to get a mixer whose performance is dependable and can stand the test of time.
The weight and sizes of mixers may vary from one product to another, so you need to know what is ideal for your purposes. Take into consideration the amount of storage space you have in your kitchen as well when selecting the mixer. Make sure you have enough room to snugly house the mixer of your choice.
Performance-wise, you need to look at the wattage and the number of speed settings that the mixer has. Stand mixers can have anywhere between three to fifteen speeds. The more speeds that a mixer has, the more flexible it will be. You will then have more control on how it operates. Examine what kind of capacity the product can handle also. Some stand mixers come with several different bowl sizes. Ask for an opportunity to test run the product and observe what the beater style and motion is like. Take note what sort of controls the mixer has too - whether it has a dial, push buttons, switches, slide control or a touchpad with digital display. Check also for any timer features. Above all, have an eye out for products that are easy to operate.
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.
About the Author:
Melinda Kingsley is a mother of 3 children. She writes mixer reviews in her blog. You can find kitchen mixer reviews and best stand mixer reviews in her blog.