If you get a lodge cast iron pan (honestly I wouldn't buy any other, tremendous value for the price) they come pre-seasoned and you just use it.
If food starts sticking to it, spread a thin layer of oil on it and then oven cook at the highest temperature you have.
You shouldn't use soap on the pan, that will remove some oil. Most soap won't remove the seasoning, but maybe lots of soap and excessive brushing will and food will start sticking quicker!
Once you're done with the pan drop some hot water in it (ice cold water could crack the pan) and scrape off the food - which should come out nicely.
If that doesn't work or you left the pan dirty from the previous day, pour water and scrub a bit harder until smooth. Salt can help as well.
To make sure you dried it correctly, put it back on the stove and (optionally) rub some oil into it.
If food starts sticking to it, spread a thin layer of oil on it and then oven cook at the highest temperature you have.
You shouldn't use soap on the pan, that will remove some oil. Most soap won't remove the seasoning, but maybe lots of soap and excessive brushing will and food will start sticking quicker!
Once you're done with the pan drop some hot water in it (ice cold water could crack the pan) and scrape off the food - which should come out nicely. If that doesn't work or you left the pan dirty from the previous day, pour water and scrub a bit harder until smooth. Salt can help as well.
To make sure you dried it correctly, put it back on the stove and (optionally) rub some oil into it.