How Medieval Knights Maintained Their Shiny Armor

Once a common question brought up, the fanciful imagery of medieval knights in gleaming armor often sparks curiosity. Did these knights truly have armor as shiny and polished as today's stainless steel? What methods did they use to keep their armor so pristine?

Did Medieval Knights Have Shiny Armor?

Firstly, it requires evidence that medieval knights indeed maintained shiny armor. Logical reasoning suggests knights, given their role, would not prefer armor that rusts repeatedly. Instead, they would use it to their advantage by ensuring it remained clean and polished.

However, a deeper look reveals that not all knights wore shiny armor consistently. For instance, the Black Prince, known for wearing black armor, did not seek a gleaming appearance.

According to historical accounts and common practice, the responsibility for shiny armor lay with servants and squires. They were in charge of maintaining the armor's appearance and were often ordered to make it shine before important events, such as lunch.

The Role of Servants and Squires

The notion that only knights themselves polished their armor is a misconception. Servants and, more specifically, squires were tasked with the responsibility of regular polishing. This was necessary to prevent rust and to maintain the armor's natural shine.

Some armor was even painted to prevent corrosion, providing an alternative to regular polishing. However, many knights chose to keep their armor shiny and polished, as it was an essential aspect of their appearance and status.

The Polishing Process

The process of polishing armor involved a rigorous, and at times, unconventional method. Historical accounts detail the use of urine, aged until it had a strong ammonia scent, mixed with sand. This mixture served as an effective cleaning solution for the armor.

The sand provided a natural abrasive effect, while the ammonia removed grease and fat, helping to clean and preserve the armor. Pages, the most junior of the servants, were often assigned this task, ensuring the armor was clean and well-maintained before battles or important events.

Additionally, regular use and periodic cleaning with wet cloths and specialized cleaning solutions helped maintain the armor's shine. Even in times of peace, knights would have their squires polish and maintain their armor to ensure it remained in excellent condition.

Conclusion

In summary, maintaining shiny armor in medieval times was a collaborative effort involving knights, squires, and servants. The key to vibrant armor lay in regular cleaning, polishing, and occasionally using natural and unconventional methods like urine and sand. By understanding these practices, we can better appreciate the dedication and craftsmanship that went into maintaining such an essential part of a knight's regalia and equipment.