STIR Stand Mixer 35518

bella STIR XL Stand Mixer 35518

The bella STIR 6qt Tilt-Head Stand Mixer is a household kitchen appliance designed for mixing batters, whipping ingredients, kneading dough, and preparing a variety of baking mixtures. It features a 6-quart stainless steel mixing bowl, a tilt-head design, 12 adjustable speeds, and four interchangeable mixing attachments.

The stand mixer includes a flat beater, balloon whisk, dough hook, and pastry beater with a silicone edge. Each attachment is designed for different mixing tasks, from whipping egg whites and cream to combining cake batter and kneading bread dough.

The mixer has a head tilt button for accessing the bowl and changing attachments, a splash shield with a filler opening, and non-skid feet for stability. Its speed control dial provides settings from 1 to 12, along with a (0) OFF position.

Product Overview

The bella STIR XL 6qt Stand Mixer combines a tilting mixer head with interchangeable attachments for everyday food preparation and baking.

The stainless steel bowl locks onto the mixing bowl base, while the selected attachment connects to the shaft underneath the mixer head.

The splash shield fits around the attachment area and includes a filler opening for adding small ingredients or liquids while mixing.

Main Features

• 6-quart stainless steel mixing bowl: Features a handle for easier handling.
• Tilt-head design: Allows the mixer head to be raised for installing attachments and accessing the bowl.
• 12 mixing speeds: Provides speed settings from 1 to 12.
• Flat beater: Used for normal and heavier mixing tasks.
• Balloon whisk: Incorporates air into eggs, cream, frosting, and other light mixtures.
• Dough hook: Mixes and kneads bread, pizza, pastry, and pasta dough.
• Pastry beater: Features a silicone edge for mixing normal to heavy mixtures.
• Splash shield: Helps contain ingredients during mixing.
• Filler opening: Allows liquids and small ingredients to be added during operation.
• Head tilt button: Releases the mixer head for raising or lowering.
• Non-skid feet: Help reduce movement on the countertop.
• Silicone spatula: Provided for handling and scraping mixtures.
• Thermal motor protection: Shuts down the motor when the protection system is activated.
• Dishwasher-safe components: The bowl, splash shield, and four mixing attachments can be cleaned on the top dishwasher rack.

What’s Included

The bella STIR stand mixer includes the main appliance and mixing accessories.

Parts and Components

The stand mixer contains a motorized head, speed controls, bowl support, and removable accessories.

Tilt-Head Mechanism

The tilt-head mechanism allows the mixer head to move upward for attachment installation and bowl access.

Pressing the head tilt button releases the head.

When lowering the head, press the tilt button while bringing the head down until it locks into its working position.

Caution: Keep fingers away from the hinge area to prevent injury.

Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl

The 6-quart stainless steel bowl fits into the mixing bowl base.

To secure it, insert the bowl into the base and rotate it clockwise until locked.

Important: The manual instructs users not to fill the bowl more than halfway and separately specifies a maximum of 10 cups. Follow these stated mixing limits.

Splash Shield

The splash shield helps reduce spills during mixing.

It includes an opening for adding liquids and small ingredients while the mixer is running.

Non-Skid Feet

The non-skid feet help the appliance grip a clean countertop.

If the mixer moves during operation, the troubleshooting instructions recommend reducing speed, decreasing the ingredient quantity, and checking that the countertop is clean.

Technical Specifications

Important Safety Instructions

The bella STIR stand mixer contains moving attachments and electrical components. Incorrect operation can cause personal injury, electric shock, or appliance damage.

Electrical Safety

• Read all instructions before using the appliance.
• Connect the stand mixer only to a 120V AC electrical outlet.
• Never immerse the motor body, plug, or power cord in water or another liquid.
• Check that the speed control dial is at (0) OFF before connecting the power cord.
• Always switch the mixer off before installing or removing accessories.
• Unplug the appliance before cleaning.
• Unplug the mixer when it is not in use.
• Disconnect power by holding the plug, not by pulling the cord.
• Do not use the appliance if its power cord or plug is damaged.
• Do not operate a mixer that has malfunctioned or been damaged.
• Contact Consumer Service if the appliance requires service.

Warning: Do not attempt to repair the mixer yourself. Unauthorized repair may void the warranty.

Moving Attachment Safety

• Keep hands away from moving attachments.
• Keep hair and clothing clear of the mixing area.
• Do not allow spatulas or other utensils to contact moving attachments.
• Never attempt to bypass the appliance’s safety mechanisms.
• Switch the mixer off and unplug it before removing an attachment.
• Remove attachments before cleaning.
• Keep fingers away from the tilt-head hinge.

Mixing Bowl Safety

• Use only the mixing bowl supplied with the stand mixer.
• Make sure the bowl is securely locked onto the base before operating.
• Center the splash shield over the bowl.
• Do not overfill the bowl.
• Do not fill the bowl more than halfway.
• Follow the manual’s stated maximum of 10 cups.

An incorrectly fitted bowl can cause spills, property damage, or damage to the appliance.

Child Safety

The stand mixer must not be operated by children.

Keep the appliance and its power cord out of children’s reach.

Close supervision is required when using the mixer near children, and children must not be allowed to play with it.

People with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or insufficient experience, must receive close supervision and safe-use instructions from a responsible person.

Placement and Heat Safety

• Place the stand mixer on a stable countertop.
• Never operate it in an unstable position.
• Do not use the appliance outdoors.
• Keep the cord away from hot surfaces.
• Do not let the cord hang over the countertop edge.
• Do not place the mixer near a hot gas or electric burner.
• Do not put the appliance in a heated oven.
• Use the appliance only for its intended household purpose.

A heat-resistant trivet or cutting board beneath the appliance is recommended to help prevent possible countertop heat damage.

If the Mixer Falls Into Water

If the appliance falls or becomes immersed in water:

1. Disconnect electrical power immediately.
2. Do not reach into the water.
3. Do not use the appliance after it has fallen into or been immersed in water.

Polarized Plug and Power Cord Instructions

Polarized Plug

The appliance uses a polarized plug with one blade wider than the other.

The plug is designed to fit into a polarized outlet in only one direction.

If it does not fit:

1. Remove the plug.
2. Reverse its orientation.
3. Try inserting it again.
4. If the plug still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician.

Do not modify the plug.

Extension Cord Precautions

The mixer has a short power cord to reduce entanglement and tripping risks.

If a longer detachable cord or extension cord is used:

• Its electrical rating must be at least equal to the rating of the appliance.
• For a grounded appliance, use a grounding-type three-wire extension cord.
• Keep longer cords from hanging over tables or counters where children could pull them or someone could trip.

Electrical Circuit

An overloaded electrical circuit may prevent the mixer from operating properly.

The manual recommends operating the mixer on an electrical circuit separate from other appliances.

Before First Use

Wash the removable mixing components before the initial mixing session.

Initial Preparation

1. Check that the speed control dial is set to (0) OFF.
2. Unplug the stand mixer.
3. Remove the mixing bowl and attachments.
4. Wash the bowl and attachments in warm, soapy water.
5. Rinse them thoroughly.
6. Dry the cleaned components.
7. Place the mixer on a stable countertop.
8. Prepare the required ingredients and select the appropriate attachment.

The mixer is ready for assembly after the cleaned components have dried.

How to Assemble the Stand Mixer

The mixer must be assembled with its bowl, splash shield, and selected attachment securely fitted.

Step 1: Raise the Mixer Head

1. Make sure the mixer is switched off and unplugged.
2. Press the head tilt button firmly.
3. Lift the mixer head into its raised position.

Caution: Do not place fingers in the hinge area.

Step 2: Install the Mixing Bowl

1. Position the stainless steel bowl over the mixing bowl base.
2. Insert the bottom of the bowl into the bowl rest.
3. Turn the bowl clockwise.
4. Continue turning until it locks securely into place.

Step 3: Add Ingredients

Add the ingredients required for the selected mixture.

Do not exceed the bowl filling limits stated in the safety instructions.

Step 4: Attach the Splash Shield

1. Hold the splash shield using its filler opening.
2. Position the shield around the attachment area.
3. Fit its opening over the locking pin on the mixer head.
4. Rotate the shield clockwise.
5. Continue until it locks securely into place.

Step 5: Install a Mixing Attachment

1. Select the required flat beater, balloon whisk, dough hook, or pastry beater.
2. Position the attachment beneath the attachment shaft.
3. Push the attachment upward onto the shaft.
4. Turn it counterclockwise.
5. Continue until the attachment locks securely.

Step 6: Lower the Mixer Head

1. Press the head tilt button.
2. Carefully lower the mixer head toward the bowl.
3. Continue until the head locks securely into its working position.

The stand mixer is now assembled and ready for operation.

How to Use the bella STIR Stand Mixer

The stand mixer provides 12 adjustable speeds.

Always begin at a low speed and increase gradually according to the mixture’s consistency.

Step 1: Check the Assembly

Before connecting power, confirm that:

• The speed control dial is at (0) OFF.
• The mixing bowl is locked.
• The selected attachment is secured.
• The splash shield is attached.
• The mixer head is locked in its operating position.

Step 2: Connect Power

Plug the appliance into a 120V AC electrical outlet.

Step 3: Start Mixing

Turn the speed control dial from 0 toward the low-speed settings, beginning at Speed 1.

The manual describes progressing through low speeds, including Speed 4, before increasing further as needed.

Step 4: Adjust Mixing Speed

Increase the speed gradually according to the food being prepared.

Use the Mixing Guide to select suitable speeds for each attachment.

Step 5: Stop Mixing

When mixing is complete:

1. Turn the speed control dial counterclockwise to (0) OFF.
2. Unplug the stand mixer.
3. Press the head tilt button.
4. Raise the mixer head.

Step 6: Remove the Mixing Attachment

1. Make sure the appliance is unplugged.
2. Push the attachment upward into the mixer head.
3. Turn the attachment clockwise to unlock it.
4. Pull the attachment straight down from the shaft.

Step 7: Remove the Splash Shield

Grasp the splash shield and rotate it counterclockwise to unlock it.

Remove it from the mixer head.

Mixing Speed Guide

The 12-speed control system allows different attachments to operate at speeds suited to their mixing tasks.

The following ranges are specified in the manual.

General Speed Selection

Begin mixing at Speed 1.

Gradually increase the speed until the desired consistency is achieved.

For mixtures with high liquid content, keep the speed low until the mixture thickens to reduce splashing.

Flat Beater Instructions

The flat beater is intended for normal to heavy mixing tasks.

Suitable Foods

• Cakes.
• Cookies.
• Biscuits.
• Creamed frostings.
• Mashed potatoes.
• Pie pastry.
• Instant pudding.
• Mousse.

Recommended Speed

The mixing guide lists Speeds 1–6 for stirring with the flat beater.

For folding cake mixtures using the flat beater or pastry beater, the guide lists Speeds 1–8.

Flat Beater Mixing Tips

• Bring butter or margarine to room temperature when making thick batters.
• Add ingredients one at a time.
• Mix each ingredient thoroughly before adding the next.
• Add flour one cup at a time.
• Adjust the mixing speed as needed if the mixture creates resistance.

Balloon Whisk Instructions

The balloon whisk is designed to incorporate air into light mixtures.

Suitable Foods

• Sponge cakes.
• Egg whites.
• Whole eggs.
• Egg yolks.
• Mayonnaise.
• Heavy cream.
• Whipped cream.
• Boiled frostings.
• Other frosting mixtures.

Recommended Speed

The mixing guide specifies Speeds 8–12 for creaming, beating, and whipping.

Egg Whipping Quantities

Balloon Whisk Precautions

Do not use the balloon whisk for heavy mixtures such as:

• Bread dough.
• Fudge.
• Mashed potatoes.

Use the flat beater, pastry beater, or dough hook for the appropriate heavy mixing tasks.

Dough Hook Instructions

The dough hook is intended for mixing and kneading yeast dough and related mixtures.

Suitable Foods

• Bread.
• Bread rolls.
• Pizza dough.
• Shortcrust pastry.
• Pasta.
• Other supported dough mixtures.

Recommended Speed

Use Speeds 1–3 when kneading with the dough hook.

Maximum Flour Quantity

For bread or pizza dough, use a maximum of five cups of flour.

Dough Hook Mixing Tips

1. Select the dough hook.
2. Lock it onto the attachment shaft.
3. Add the ingredients to the mixing bowl.
4. Begin mixing at a low speed.
5. Add flour one cup at a time.
6. Stop the mixer periodically to scrape down the bowl.
7. Continue kneading according to the required consistency.

Always switch off and unplug the mixer before placing a spatula or other utensil near the attachment.

Pastry Beater Instructions

The pastry beater includes a silicone edge and is intended for normal to heavy mixtures.

Suitable Foods

• Cake mixes.
• Cookies.
• Biscuits.
• Creamed frosting.
• Pie pastry.
• Medium-weight dough.
• Pancake batter.

Recommended Speed

The mixing guide lists Speeds 1–12 for mixing with the pastry beater.

For folding cake mixtures with either the flat beater or pastry beater, the guide lists Speeds 1–8.

Pastry Beater Mixing Tips

• Use room-temperature butter or margarine when preparing thick batters.
• Add ingredients one at a time.
• Mix thoroughly between additions.
• Add flour one cup at a time.
• If the mixer appears to struggle during mixing, adjust the speed upward as directed in the manual.

Do not exceed the stated bowl filling limit.

General Mixing Tips

The instruction manual provides several ways to improve mixing consistency.

Adding Dry and Liquid Ingredients

For many batters, including cakes and cookies, add ingredients in the following sequence:

1. One-third of the dry ingredients.
2. One-half of the liquid ingredients.
3. One-third of the dry ingredients.
4. The remaining half of the liquid ingredients.
5. The final one-third of the dry ingredients.

Mix slowly until the ingredients are blended.

Gradually increase speed when needed.

Adding Chocolate Chips, Nuts, and Raisins

Fold additional ingredients into the mixture during the final stages of mixing.

Examples include:

• Chocolate chips.
• Chocolate chunks.
• Nuts.
• Raisins.
• Fruit pieces.

The batter should be thick enough to reduce the chance of fruit or nuts sinking to the bottom of the baking pan.

Mixing Sticky or Fresh Fruit

Coating sticky or fresh fruit with flour or confectioners’ sugar may help distribute it more evenly throughout the batter.

Mixing Thin Batters

Use medium speeds when mixing thin batters.

For mixtures containing large amounts of liquid, begin at a lower speed to prevent splashing.

Increase speed after the mixture becomes thicker.

Adding Ingredients During Mixing

Use the filler opening in the splash shield to add liquids and small ingredients during operation.

Keep hands, hair, clothing, spatulas, and other utensils away from moving attachments.

Scraping the Mixing Bowl

Stop the stand mixer periodically to scrape mixture from the sides of the bowl.

Turn the dial to (0) OFF and unplug the appliance before placing a spatula inside the mixing area.

Refrigerating Mixtures

When a prepared mixture requires refrigeration, cover the bowl after processing.

Covering the mixture helps maintain its structure and reduces absorption of odors from the refrigerator.

Manual Thermal Protector

The bella STIR stand mixer contains a manually resettable thermal protector.

This system protects the motor by shutting it down when the protection mechanism is activated.

How to Reset the Thermal Protector

If the motor shuts down during mixing:

1. Turn the speed control dial to (0) OFF.
2. Unplug the stand mixer.
3. Leave the appliance resting for approximately 30 minutes.
4. After the rest period, reconnect the power cord.
5. Turn the speed control dial to the required setting to resume mixing.

This reset procedure is different from the five-minute cooling instructions provided for a stalled motor or an obstructed attachment.

Cleaning Instructions

The mixing bowl, splash shield, and attachments can be cleaned separately from the motorized body.

Before Cleaning

1. Turn the speed control dial to (0) OFF.
2. Unplug the stand mixer.
3. Remove the mixing attachments.
4. Remove the splash shield.
5. Remove the mixing bowl.

Dishwasher-Safe Components

The following parts are safe for cleaning on the top rack of a dishwasher.

Cleaning the Mixer Body

1. Disconnect the power cord.
2. Wipe the mixer head using a damp cloth or sponge.
3. Wipe the motor base and exterior body.
4. Dry all cleaned surfaces thoroughly.

Warning: Never immerse the motor base, power cord, or plug in water or any other liquid.

Cleaning Precautions

Do not use:

• Rough scouring pads.
• Abrasive cleansers.

These can damage the plastic or metal surfaces of the appliance.

Maintenance Instructions

The stand mixer requires limited routine maintenance.

Its removable mixing components should be cleaned after use, and the electrical cord and appliance body should be handled according to the safety instructions.

Maintenance Guide

Appliance Repairs

The stand mixer contains no user-serviceable internal parts.

Do not attempt to repair the appliance yourself.

If the product requires servicing, contact a qualified appliance repair technician or Consumer Service.

Storage Instructions

Store the stand mixer after it has been switched off, unplugged, and cleaned.

How to Store the Mixer

1. Turn the speed control dial to (0) OFF.
2. Unplug the appliance.
3. Clean the bowl, splash shield, and attachments.
4. Clean and dry the exterior.
5. Store the mixer in its original box or in a clean, dry place.

Power Cord Storage

• Do not store the mixer while it is hot.
• Never store it while plugged in.
• Do not wrap the cord tightly around the appliance.
• Avoid placing stress on the cord, particularly where it enters the motor base.

Excessive stress on the power cord may cause fraying or breakage.

Troubleshooting Guide

The following troubleshooting information covers the operating problems and corrective actions described in the instruction manual.

Utensil Caught in Mixing Attachment

If a utensil becomes caught in the rotating attachment:

1. Immediately turn the speed control dial to (0) OFF.
2. Unplug the appliance.
3. Clear the obstruction.
4. Allow the motor to cool for five minutes before continuing.

Warning: Do not attempt to remove an obstruction while the mixer is operating or connected to electrical power.

Stand Mixer Motor Stalls

If the motor stalls during mixing:

1. Turn the dial to (0) OFF immediately.
2. Unplug the mixer.
3. Reduce the amount of mixture in the bowl.
4. Allow the motor to cool for five minutes.
5. Resume mixing.

Do not overfill the mixing bowl.

Ingredients Are Not Mixing Properly

If food remains unevenly mixed:

• Place liquid ingredients in the bowl before dry ingredients.
• Stop the stand mixer periodically to scrape the bowl.
• Increase the mixing speed as needed.

Use the attachment and speed setting appropriate for the food being prepared.

Food Splattering During Mixing

Splattering may occur when mixing thin or liquid-heavy ingredients at high speeds.

How to Reduce Splattering

1. Begin mixing at a low speed.
2. Allow the mixture to thicken.
3. Increase speed gradually.
4. Check that the splash shield is properly attached.

Stand Mixer Moving on the Countertop

If the mixer moves across the countertop while operating:

1. Reduce the mixing speed.
2. Reduce the quantity of ingredients in the bowl.
3. Check that the countertop is clean.
4. Allow the non-skid feet to grip the surface properly.

The mixer must always be operated on a stable surface.

Stand Mixer Stops Working During Mixing

If the appliance stops working unexpectedly, the thermal protection system may have activated.

Reset Procedure

1. Turn the speed control dial to (0) OFF.
2. Unplug the stand mixer.
3. Allow it to rest for approximately 30 minutes.
4. Reconnect the power cord.
5. Turn the speed control dial to the desired setting.

If the appliance continues to malfunction, stop using it and contact Consumer Service.

Warranty Information

The bella STIR 6qt Stand Mixer includes a limited warranty provided by Sensio Inc., doing business as Made by Gather.

The warranty covers qualifying mechanical defects in materials and workmanship for two years from the date of delivery.

Non-mechanical parts are covered for 90 days.

Warranty Coverage

What the Warranty Covers

During the applicable warranty period, Sensio may repair or replace a product found to have a covered defect or issue a refund.

The remedy is determined by Sensio.

Warranty Exclusions

The warranty does not cover normal wear or damage caused by:

• Negligent use.
• Incorrect voltage or current.
• Improper routine maintenance.
• Use contrary to the operating instructions.
• Unauthorized disassembly.
• Unauthorized repairs or alterations.
• Natural events such as fire, flood, hurricane, or tornado.

The warranty also includes limitations on incidental and consequential damages. Legal rights and applicable restrictions may vary by jurisdiction.

How to Request Warranty Service

1. Contact Customer Service at 1-866-832-4843.
2. Describe the problem.
3. Follow the instructions from the service representative.
4. If the problem cannot be resolved by telephone, obtain a case number.
5. Follow the product return instructions.

Returning the Product for Warranty Service

If a return is required, attach a tag containing:

• Customer name.
• Customer address.
• Daytime telephone number.
• Warranty case number.
• Description of the problem.

Include a copy of the original sales receipt.

Package the product carefully and send it to the return address provided by Sensio with shipping and insurance prepaid.

Sensio does not accept responsibility for products while they are in transit to its Customer Service Center.

Customer Support Information

Customer service for the bella STIR stand mixer is provided by Sensio Inc. dba Made by Gather.

Product Registration

Product registration is available through https://bellakitchenware.com.

When to Contact Customer Service

Contact Consumer Service if the mixer has a damaged cord or plug, develops a malfunction, requires professional repair, or needs warranty assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use the bella STIR 6qt Stand Mixer?

Lock the stainless steel bowl into the mixer base, add ingredients, attach the splash shield, and secure the required mixing attachment. Lower and lock the mixer head, plug the appliance into a 120V AC outlet, and begin mixing at Speed 1. Increase speed gradually as needed. Turn the dial to (0) OFF and unplug the mixer when finished.

How many speeds does the bella STIR stand mixer have?

The bella STIR stand mixer has 12 mixing speeds, plus a (0) OFF position. The manual recommends Speeds 1–3 for kneading with the dough hook, Speeds 1–6 for stirring with the flat beater, and Speeds 8–12 for whipping with the balloon whisk.

How do I attach and remove the mixing attachments?

To install an attachment, raise the mixer head, push the attachment onto the shaft, and turn it counterclockwise until locked. To remove it, switch off and unplug the mixer, raise the head, push the attachment upward, turn it clockwise to unlock, and pull it downward.

Can the bella STIR 6qt Stand Mixer make bread dough?

Yes. The dough hook is designed for mixing and kneading bread, rolls, pizza dough, pastry, and pasta. Use Speeds 1–3 when kneading. For bread or pizza dough, the manual specifies a maximum of five cups of flour.

Why did my bella stand mixer stop working?

The motor may have activated its thermal protection system. Turn the speed dial to (0) OFF, unplug the mixer, and let it rest for approximately 30 minutes. Reconnect power and select the required speed. If the mixer continues to malfunction, stop using it and contact Consumer Service.

Are the bella stand mixer attachments dishwasher-safe?

Yes. The stainless steel mixing bowl, splash shield, flat beater, pastry beater, balloon whisk, and dough hook are dishwasher-safe on the top rack. The motor base and mixer body must only be wiped with a damp cloth or sponge and dried thoroughly.

How much dough can the bella 6qt stand mixer handle?

The manual specifies a maximum of five cups of flour when preparing bread or pizza dough. Its safety instructions also say not to fill the mixing bowl more than halfway and give a maximum of 10 cups. These mixing limits should be followed.

What is the warranty on the bella STIR stand mixer?

The bella STIR stand mixer has a two-year limited warranty for qualifying mechanical defects and 90-day coverage for non-mechanical parts. The warranty applies to the original retail purchaser from the initial delivery date and requires proof of purchase. For assistance, contact 1-866-832-4843 or help@bellakitchenware.com.