How to Keep Well in Wartime - WWII Health & Hygiene Reproduction
Military Clothing Size Guide (Click to Expand)
Military clothing sizes are listed as Height / Chest (for jackets and smocks) or Height / Waist (for trousers).
Example: 180/96 fits someone around 5'11" tall with a 38" chest.
| NATO Size (Label) | Approx Height | Chest / Waist (in) | Generic Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| 160 / 88 | 5'3"–5'5" | 34–35" | Small (S) |
| 170 / 88 | 5'7"–5'9" | 34–35" | Small (S) |
| 170 / 96 | 5'7"–5'9" | 37–38" | Medium (M) |
| 180 / 96 | 5'10"–5'11" | 37–38" | Medium (M) |
| 180 / 104 | 5'10"–5'11" | 40–41" | Large (L) |
| 190 / 96 | 6'2" | 37–38" | Medium (M) Tall |
| 190 / 104 | 6'2" | 40–41" | Large (L) Tall |
| 180 / 112 | 5'11" | 43–44" | X-Large (XL) |
| 190 / 112 | 6'2" | 43–44" | X-Large (XL) Tall |
| 200 / 120 | 6'4"+ | 46–48" | 2X-Large (2XL) |
⚙️ Sizing Tips
- The first number is your height in cm.
- The second number is your chest or waist in cm.
- Military gear is usually cut roomy for layering and movement.
- If you’re between sizes, go down for a closer fit or up for layering.
- Example: 5'11" tall with 40" chest → 180/104 (Large).
This reproduction is a faithful replica of the "How to Keep Well in Wartime" booklet issued by the Ministry of Health during the Second World War. As a practical resource for a nation under the strain of rationing and the Blitz, this booklet provided factual guidance on maintaining physical and mental health. It serves as a no-nonsense record of the government’s efforts to ensure the British public remained fit for service and industry despite the deprivations of total war.
Product Specifications & Features
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Official Instructional Content: Contains the original wartime advice on nutrition, sleep, hygiene, and the prevention of common illnesses.
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Period-Correct Format: A compact, staple-bound booklet designed to mirror the size and paper quality of the original government-issue publications.
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Service-Issue Quality: Printed on durable, era-appropriate paper stock that replicates the feel of 1940s official stationery.
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Historical Accuracy: Preserves the original typesetting and the direct, authoritative tone used by the Ministry of Health to bolster national resilience.
Key Historical Insights
This booklet serves as a primary-source archive of Home Front life and public health strategy:
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Nutrition Under Rationing: Guidance on how to maintain a balanced diet using limited ingredients and "Dig for Victory" produce.
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Physical Resilience: Advice on staying healthy during long hours in factories or the cold conditions of air-raid shelters.
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Infection Control: Practical steps for preventing the spread of disease in crowded urban environments and communal living spaces.
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Mental Fortitude: Insights into the era’s approach to managing stress and "nerves" under the constant threat of bombardment.
Realistic Use Cases
In keeping with our army surplus UK standards for functional historical gear, this booklet is intended for:
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Historical Reenactment: A period-correct accessory for those portraying Home Front civilians, Red Cross workers, or ARP personnel.
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Educational Instruction: A tactile tool for schools and museums to demonstrate the domestic challenges of WWII beyond the battlefield.
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Living History Displays: Ideal for set dressing in "Wartime Kitchen" or "Shelter Life" exhibits to show the public the actual advice given to their ancestors.
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Research & Reference: A factual resource for those interested in the history of public health and government propaganda during the 1940s.
Condition Note: This is a high-quality modern reproduction. It is designed for active use and study, providing a realistic look and feel where an original 85-year-old document would be far too fragile for regular handling.
Domestic Shipping
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We send out the majority of orders the same day of receiving upto 1pm
We also offer an express shipping service which ensures your delivery is prioritised for delivery as quick as possible and usually delivered the next working day.
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Rest of the World, we have availability with all the major carriers and each is nominated dependant on the best service for the receivers destination.
If you can not get an automated shipping quote please contact us for a spot shipping quote.
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You have 7 calendar days to contact us and arrange for the item to be returned which will be received by us no longer than 30 days from initial order. To be eligible for a return, your item must be unused (if applicable) and in the same condition that you received it. Your item must be in the original packaging (if applicable).
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