Lauren Bradbury
Lauren Bradbury is a freelance writer and major homes enthusiast. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing from the University of Chichester in 2016, before dipping her toe into the world of content writing. After years of agency work, writing everything from real-life stories to holiday round-ups, she decided to take the plunge and become a full-time freelancer in the online magazine world. Since then, she has become a regular contributor for Real Homes and Ideal Home, and become even more obsessed with everything interior and garden related. As a result, she’s in the process of transforming her old Victorian terraced house into an eclectic and modern home that hits visitors with personality as soon as they walk through the door.
Ideal Home Truths
Where’s your happy place?
My happy place is sitting in my living room with my dog by my side. Myself and my husband have painted the walls around five times since we moved in, but have finally settled on a sage green colour that has turned it into the cosy space I was really hoping for.
What’s your home addiction?
I just can’t get enough of candles and reed diffusers. Every room in my house smells different, which means I’m hit with a new smell everywhere I walk. For some reason, this just puts a smile on my face and really awakens my senses - especially when I’m working from home.
What is your next home project?
Since moving into my home in 2020, I’ve tried to avoid any major renovations, but my bathroom is in need of some serious TLC. Like many Victorian properties, the bathroom is on the ground floor and is extremely hard to ignore. So, I’m hoping to transform the old, white bathroom into a bright oasis that still acknowledges its Victorian roots.
Latest articles by Lauren Bradbury
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When to plant hyacinth bulbs for bold spring blooms – don't miss the planting window
This is the best time, according to experts
By Lauren Bradbury
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When to plant tulip bulbs for bright spring blooms – and avoid this common tulip disease
Time it right for beautiful, healthy blooms
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to dry clothes in winter - dry your washing indoors in just a few hours with these expert tips
Don’t let the bad weather put you off
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to sharpen lawn mower blades - and why you should complete this task before winter, according to experts
When was the last time you sharpened your blades?
By Lauren Bradbury
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The 6 best pizza oven accessories you need to enjoy your oven all year-round - even in winter
Pizza ovens aren’t just for summer…
By Lauren Bradbury
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When to prune berberis to keep this autumn favourite in perfect shape, according to experts
The exact time all depends on the type of berberis you have
By Lauren Bradbury
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The best household essentials and top-rated cleaning products - including bulk buys to save money all year round
Take advantage of these epic discounts on cleaning products and household essentials to cut down your trips to the supermarket
By Lauren Bradbury
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9 of the best window cleaning tools - everything you need to ditch the professionals and do it yourself
Your windows will look better than ever
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to prepare your decking for winter - top tips to prevent rotting and decay before the wind and rain sets in
Preparation is the key
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to store a lawn mower over winter - top tips to prevent corrosion and damage while it’s not in use
You may not be using your lawn mower over winter, but you still need to store it properly
By Lauren Bradbury
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What’s the most efficient way to heat a house? How to heat your home for less, according to experts
How to choose the correct system and make cost-effective changes during the winter
By Lauren Bradbury
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When to plant bulbs for spring – don't miss the window for stunning blooms next year
Time it right for long-lasting displays
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to clean a paint roller - remove water and oil-based paints with this expert guide
Cleaning a paint roller can be tricky... but it doesn't have to be
By Lauren Bradbury
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How long does grass seed last? Experts urge gardeners to check expiry dates before overseeding their lawns this autumn
Grass seed can quickly ‘go off’ if not stored correctly
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to clean metal garden furniture to remove rust, algae, and dirt
Restore your outdoor furniture in six simple steps
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to make laundry detergent from conkers - wash your clothes for free with Nancy Birtwhistle’s natural recipe
It’s conker season, after all!
By Lauren Bradbury
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Is pruning the same as cutting back? No, and choosing the wrong option could spell disaster for your plants
They may seem interchangeable, but they’re not the same…
By Lauren Bradbury
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What temperature should underfloor heating be set at? Experts reveal how to heat your home without damaging your flooring
This is the ideal temperature for a toasty home
By Lauren Bradbury
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When to plant winter pansies - Now's the prime time to fill your garden with colourful blooms for the colder months
Pansies will need a little headstart to grow big and bushy this winter
By Lauren Bradbury
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When to plant iris bulbs - the deadline is looming if you want to fill your garden with bulb or border irises next year
Autumn = Iris planting time
By Lauren Bradbury
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Are smart heating systems worth it? The pros and cons of upgrading your thermostat this winter
There are a few things to consider before investing in a smart heating system
By Lauren Bradbury
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Why is my Christmas cactus dropping leaves? How to save this festive favourite before it’s too late
If you spot the signs early, you’ll be able to save your Christmas cactus
By Lauren Bradbury
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Can I use washing-up liquid to clean walls before painting? This sugar soap alternative could be the key to a flawless finish
You might not have sugar soap lying around, but you’ll definitely have washing-up liquid…
By Lauren Bradbury
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Why is my paint bubbling while painting? Explains explain this bizarre phenomenon and how to fix it
It’s a common paint problem, but it could be a sign of something more sinister
By Lauren Bradbury