We are big fans of cast iron in this house. Inherited a skillet from my mom and have picked up various others over the years. The cast iron skillet and my garlic press are my most essential kitchen tools. My brother and I have a long running debate about how best to “season” a cast iron skillet. He insists that a skillet should never touch soap. I, on the other hand, wash mine with soap suds, rinse, dry the skillet on the stove, and then very lightly oil it with olive oil. What is your view/technique?
I wash mine with soap all the time. The seasoning is polymerized meaning soap isn't going to touch it. I dry on the stove and apply a coating of veggie oil while still hot (and the pores are open). Pretty much all mine is newer lodge which I took abrasives to to get a glass like finish on the iron before I seasoned them. They work perfectly.