Best 12-inch skillet lids

Top pick: a plain 12-inch tempered glass lid with a stainless rim. It fits most 12-inch skillets, lets you watch food without lifting it, and works on any pan material — the best all-rounder for everyday cooking.

• Glass with a stainless rim — the safe default: see-through, easy to clean, fine in a moderate oven.
• Cast-iron skillet lid — for Lodge/FINEX-style pans and oven-to-table braising; heavy, and it hides the food.
• Stainless lid — for induction and high heat, and for a snug fit on one specific pan.
• Universal lid — if you want one lid to cover several pans of different sizes.

Check the inner diameter of your skillet before buying; a 12-inch pan often takes a slightly smaller lid.