Hidden Killers of the Post-War Home

In this episode of Dr Suzannah Lipscomb's hugely popular Hidden Killers strand, she explores the time when the British embraced modern design for the first time after years of austerity and self-denial. The look and feel of the post-war 1950s home – a 'modern' world of moulded plywood furniture, fibreglass, plastics and polyester – had its roots in the materials innovations of World War Two. In fact, no other war before or since has had such a profound effect on the technologies of our current life. This bright new era encompassed a host of social changes, including higher living standards and improved technologies but some changes came at a cost. From household chemistry sets, to highly flammable furniture, Dr Suzannah looks at life-threatening many post-war household items were. (Viasat)