Is it true that iron skillets don't have to washed after using?

Question

The instructions on mine say to scrub with a pad and running water then re-season. However I don't consider something washed unless some type of surfactant is used.

Answer 1

Washing a used pot, pan, skillet after use is not only wise, but smart. Unremoved food residue is an open invitation to contamination; when using the skillet for food food preparation in the future.

Caring for your cast iron is not all that hard.

Washing the skillet in hot water with detergent is the first step.  Then put it on the stove, turn on the burner and dry it thoroughly at hi heat.  Allow to cool thoroughly before handling. Finally, re-season by applying a light coating of olive oil, put in the oven and allow to heat season for about 3 hours @ 250 degrees.

I have Cast Iron pans, skillets, etc., that are about 50 yrs. old and still serving me well.

Answer 2

lol I am the same way but for the sake of my cast iron skillet i do not wash it per say I will run it under hot water and give a soft wipe with a clean rag. Washing it can cause it to rust

Answer 3

It's only true if the skillet has been "cured 1st.

http://makeover.about.com/od/quickdiypro...

If the skillet has been cured properly it should be "non-stick" when heated properly before adding food. If food does get stuck on the pan, you need to scrape off the residue with a metal spatula and scour with steel wool and wash with soap & water.