Given the need to not cross-contaminate between vegan, vegetarian, and meat pans, pika cleans its pans a bit differently than you might be used to. The correct cleaning procedure for our cast-iron pans is as follows:
Yes, this will somewhat ruin the seasoning, but it won't actually ruin the pan. (https://lifehacker.com/go-ahead-and-use-soap-to-clean-your-cast-iron-pan-1658416503) DO NOT USE STEEL WOOL. IT IS ABRASIVE AF AND WILL RUIN THE SEASONING. However, you do need to remove all particulates before proceeding. If that means you need to use something more abrasive than the sponge, then do that :(. Be as gentle as you can.
Leaving it wet or in the sink will ruin the pan -- it'll rust. PLEASE DON'T DO THIS.
Put some vegetable oil on a paper towel and rub it around the pan to re-season.
Be super careful with this. If you get too much smoke it will set off the fire alarm and then everyone will be sad. After thoroughly oiling the surface, you should put it in the oven and wait for it to START to smoke. Then immediately take it out and the surface will have a different less shiny but not dull sheen.