Knowing how to clean a cast-iron skillet correctly is essential to its longevity and its everyday performance. Your two main goals: Avoid rust by keeping the skillet dry when not in use, and protect the pan’s seasoning layer so it stays nonstick. (Yes, despite popular belief, a little soap is fine if you remember to reseason your cast-iron skillet as needed.) Start by drying with an absorbent dishcloth, then set the cast-iron skillet on the stovetop over low heat for a few minutes until there’s no trace of moisture. Watch a video on how to clean a cast-iron skillet