My friend swore you could put a hot pan under cold water to cool it fast

I was making dinner last night and had a cast iron skillet that was still really hot. My friend, who was over, told me to just run it under the tap to cool it off quick so I could wash it. I always heard that was a bad idea, but he was so sure. I did it anyway, and the pan made a loud ping sound and a tiny crack appeared on the side. It happened right after the water hit it. I looked it up, and it turns out the sudden temperature change can warp or crack cast iron, which is a total myth that it's safe. I felt pretty dumb for not trusting my gut. Now I have to figure out if this pan is still okay to use or if it's ruined. Has anyone else had a kitchen tool break from a myth they believed?

3 comments

3 Comments

stella_murray10d ago

My old lodge skillet cracked the same way from a cold sink rinse. The thermal shock is real, so I just let it cool on the burner for an hour now. That tiny crack might be okay for a while, but keep an eye on it.

jade_singh2d ago

That "tiny crack" could let bacteria grow in the seasoning, right?

iris57411d ago

My grandma's old skillet cracked the same way, so I just let pans cool on the stove now.