Wonderstuff

Jane takes a look at the ingredients used in the manufacture of personal hygiene items. She looks at soap and toothpaste before putting different home-made versions to the test.

Jane takes a look at the scientific processes that are used to help the effectiveness of biological washing powder and citrus degreasers.

Jane investigates how the formula for car anti-freeze was inspired by a tiny Antarctic insect, and learns about the purpose of the active ingredient in drain cleaner. She also explores the science behind mobile-phone batteries.

Jane has her own home scrutinized for germs in order to put antibacterial spray to the test, finds out how some mind-blowingly clever molecules in air freshener manage to combat dirt in mid air, and discovers the best wonderstuff on offer for the dirtiest of all household jobs - cleaning the loo.

Jane's investigates the stickiness of household essentials. She discovers the wonderstuff in super-strength glues, how paint manages to stick to the wall and, on the flip side, what's on non-stick frying pans that makes it the world's slipperiest substance.

Jane Moore investigates the science behind skincare products, including sunscreen that disguises the signs of ageing, a baking ingredient used in moisturisers, and a chemical in anti-perspirants that makes them different from deodorants.