Many people assume polishing a piano is like polishing furniture, but in fact most piano manufacturers and technicians recommend not polishing at all. Here’s why:
Why You Should Avoid Polishing a Piano
1. Risk of Damaging the Finish
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Many polishes contain silicones, oils, or waxes that can soften or cloud the lacquer/polyester finish.
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Over time, these residues can build up, making the surface sticky or uneven.
2. Future Repairs Become Difficult
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Silicone and oil seep into the wood and finish.
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If the piano ever needs refinishing, these contaminants can cause fish-eye defects (small craters in the new finish), making restoration very difficult.
3. No Real Protection
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Furniture polishes often claim to “feed the wood” or “protect the finish,” but piano finishes are sealed and don’t absorb oils.
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Polishes don’t prevent scratches; in fact, they can highlight fine scratches by filling them unevenly.
4. Risk of Internal Contamination
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Aerosol sprays or liquid polishes can drift inside the piano, contaminating the action, keys, or strings.
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This can cause sticking keys, sluggish action, or corrosion.
What to Do Instead
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Dust regularly with a soft, dry microfiber cloth.
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For fingerprints or smudges, use a slightly damp cloth (water only), then immediately dry with a clean cloth.
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Keep the piano away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity changes—these affect the finish more than dust ever will.
Piano polish usually does more harm than good. A clean, dry cloth is the safest way to keep your piano looking beautiful.
Reference:
Piano Technicians Guild – Basic Rules of Piano Care – https://www.ptg.org/ptgmain/piano/care/basic-rules
Yamaha – Care and Maintenance of a Piano – https://www.yamaha.com/en/musical_instrument_guide/piano/maintenance/
Why Waxing a Piano Can Be Problematic
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Modern finishes don’t need it: Most pianos today use polyester high-gloss or satin lacquer finishes. These are sealed surfaces that don’t benefit from wax—unlike antique wood furniture.
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Residue buildup: Wax can leave a cloudy film, attract dust, and make the surface sticky over time.
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Refinishing issues: Just like with polish, wax can seep into the finish. If the piano ever needs refinishing, the wax can cause defects (like “fish-eye” craters) in the new finish.
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Uneven appearance: Waxing can highlight scratches or create blotchy shine, especially on satin or matte finishes.
What Experts Suggest Instead
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Dry dusting: Use a soft microfiber cloth or feather duster regularly.
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Light cleaning: For fingerprints, a slightly damp cloth with plain water (then dry immediately) is safest.
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Consult the maker: Yamaha, for example, advises that before using any wax or polish, you should check with the dealer or manufacturer, since some products are not suitable for certain finishes.
When Wax Might Be Used
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On very old pianos with traditional shellac or French-polished finishes, a professional technician may occasionally use a specialty wax.
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This is rare and should only be done by someone experienced in piano restoration.
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