The Lighthearted Outrage Over Putting a Cast Iron Skillet in the Dishwasher

The internet has a knack for turning everyday actions into viral sensations, and the latest example comes from an image that has cast iron aficionados in an uproar. The image in question, titled "where are you upvotes now?", captures a moment designed to provoke strong emotions among kitchen enthusiasts, particularly those who revere the proper care of cast iron skillets.

The image showcases the inside of a dishwasher, where various kitchen items are being washed. Most prominently featured in the center is a cast iron skillet, its dark, matte black surface standing out against the brightly colored yellow and blue bowls beside it. Accompanying this visual is text that reads: "I want to make some strangers on the internet unreasonably mad today, but first I need to put my cast iron skillet in the dishwasher."

What makes this image so provocative is the well-known advice that cast iron skillets should never be cleaned in a dishwasher. The high heat and harsh detergents can strip away the skillet's seasoning, a layer of polymerized oil that protects the metal and enhances its non-stick properties. This has led to a flurry of comments from users who are both amused and outraged by the audacity of the post.

One user remarked, "Not gonna hurt the cast iron, just ruin the seasoning which can be easily remedied," while another humorously added, "It's your skillet. Do whatever you want with it." Other comments included, "DON'T CLOSE IT YET! My car's air filter is dishwasher safe; let me toss it in too," and "I won't get mad, it's not me who has to deal with possible rust or a foul-tasting soap residue."

The post even drew the attention of those who appreciate the humor in the situation. "Upvoted for making me feel something. Even if that feeling is outrage lol," one user commented, capturing the mixed emotions that the image evokes. Another user quipped, "Unseasonably mad," playing on the importance of seasoning in cast iron care.

Some users offered practical advice amidst the chaos. "I scrub mine with a chain mail cloth and warm soapy water. Then dry on the burner and add some oil. The dishwasher is overkill but do what you like," one user suggested. Another added, "As long as you don’t run the dishwasher, it should be fine."

Interestingly, the post also sparked a debate on cookware preferences. "Don't get me wrong, I use cast iron because it's versatile. I like being able to go from the stovetop directly into the oven, or vice-versa. But some people f***ing worship their cast iron. You know what professional cooks actually use? Carbon steel," one commenter shared.

The humor and controversy surrounding this image highlight how seemingly trivial actions can elicit strong reactions online. While some users found the post infuriating, others appreciated the light-hearted provocation. As one user aptly put it, "How dare you make me up vote this."

The image of a cast iron skillet in a dishwasher serves as a reminder of the passionate communities that exist around even the most mundane aspects of daily life. Whether you're a cast iron purist or a casual cook, this post is a testament to the power of the internet to bring people together—if only to argue about the best way to wash a skillet.