If you do use a polish, choose one formulated only for violins, such as the Hill or Supersensitive brands. Never use a furniture polish on your violin as they contain oils that build up on the varnish. If rosin and dirt have built up very heavily, you may need to bring it to us for a complete cleaning. The only place for your violin, viola, cello or bow when you are not playing is in a closed case. Always be aware of what is going on around you.
Serious damage can happen because a music stand hits part of an instrument.
Especially vulnerable is the soft spruce top. The edges can chip and break with more ease than the harder maple back. The varnish on your instrument does a great deal more than add beauty to the bare white wood. It protects it and adds to the sound. If bare wood is exposed, either because of wear or damage, it is important to have an experienced violin repairperson add color and varnish to those areas.