Fleetwood's High-Finish Handle Polish
Object Information
- Type: Broomstick Care Product
- Owners: Harry Potter
- Maker: Fleetwood's (Brand)
Description and Appearance
Fleetwood's High-Finish Handle Polish is a magical substance used for the maintenance of broomstick handles. It is sold in a large jar and is a key component of the deluxe Broomstick Servicing Kit. The polish itself is one of several items in the handsome, leather-covered kit, which also includes a pair of silver-tipped Tail-Twig Clippers, a small brass compass for long journeys, and a copy of the Handbook of Do-It-Yourself Broomcare.
Magical Properties and Usage
As its name implies, the primary function of this polish is to give a broomstick's handle a superior, high-gloss finish. This is not merely cosmetic; proper maintenance of a racing broomstick like a Firebolt is essential for its performance and longevity. The polish cleans the handle and likely provides a protective layer against wear and environmental factors. It is applied by hand, and its use is part of a broader regimen of broomstick care recommended for serious Quidditch players and broomstick enthusiasts.
History
The polish is a commercially available product in the wizarding world during the 1990s. Hermione Granger purchased a Broomstick Servicing Kit containing the polish as a fourteenth birthday present for Harry Potter in the summer of 1994. This indicates it was readily available for purchase from magical retailers like those in Diagon Alley.
Role in the Story
Fleetwood's High-Finish Handle Polish first appears as a thoughtful gift from Hermione Granger to Harry Potter, demonstrating her attention to his interests, particularly his passion for Quidditch and his prized Firebolt. The object plays a small but significant role in showing Harry's preparation for the Triwizard Tournament. In the days leading up to the First Task, Harry spends an entire evening meticulously polishing his Firebolt with the Fleetwood's polish. This act of care highlights how much he values his broomstick and how he turns to his exceptional flying ability as a source of confidence when facing a dangerous and unknown challenge. The pristine condition of his broomstick is paramount as he prepares to face a dragon.
Behind the Scenes
There is no additional information about Fleetwood's High-Finish Handle Polish from J.K. Rowling's interviews, the Pottermore/Wizarding World website, or the film adaptations. Its existence is confined to the original novels, serving to build the detailed and mundane realities of the wizarding world.