Accidentally dropping your cast iron skillet doesn't necessarily mean it's ruined, but it can cause damage depending on the extent of the impact. Here's what you should do to assess the situation:
Check for Visible Damage: Inspect the skillet thoroughly for any visible signs of damage. Look for cracks, chips, or deep dents. If you notice severe structural damage, the skillet might be unsafe to use.
Assess the Cooking Surface: Check the cooking surface for any major scratches, gouges, or deformities. Small scratches might not be a big concern, but deep ones can affect the skillet's cooking performance.
Wobble Test: Place the skillet on a flat surface and do a wobble test. If it wobbles significantly, it might have become warped due to the impact.
Seasoning Inspection: If the seasoning on the skillet is severely damaged or flaking off, it may need to be re-seasoned.
Perform the Paper Towel Test: After cleaning the skillet, perform a paper towel test. Take a damp paper towel and wipe the inside surface of the skillet. If the paper towel comes away with any rust or discoloration, the impact may have compromised the seasoning and exposed the bare metal.
If you find minor issues like small scratches or cosmetic damage, your skillet should still be usable. However, if there are severe cracks, major warping, or other significant damage, it may be safer to replace the skillet.
In case of minor damage, you can continue using the skillet and take extra care when cooking and cleaning it. Re-season the skillet if needed to restore its non-stick properties and protect it from rust.
Remember, cast iron skillets are relatively resilient, and minor dings and scratches won't usually render them unusable. But always use your best judgment and ensure that the skillet is safe and functional before continuing to cook with it. If in doubt, consider seeking the advice of a professional or experienced cookware expert.