Steinway &  Sons uses lacquer to protect and finish the wooden surfaces of its instruments. This lacquer is specially formulated for Steinway pianos.

Polishing should be handled by a professional. Cleaning the piano should be done with a slightly dampened cheese cloth. For instruments of New York production, wipe the surface only in the direction the piano was originally polished. For instruments of Hamburg production, wipe in one direction. Never use a circular motion. Do not use solvents of any kind and keep all dampness away from the keybed and strings. Placing plants, vases, pictures, or any object on the piano may have a ruinous effect on the finish.