Lauren Bradbury
Lauren Bradbury started writing for Ideal Home's House Manual section back in 2023 as a freelance writer, writing about everything you need to make a house a home - from cleaning tips and DIY hacks to energy-saving guides and decluttering methods. After building up a wealth of information on the practical side of running a home, she joined the team permanently as Content Editor for House Manual in January 2025. When she's not writing how-to guides and handy features, Lauren is constantly updating many of our home appliance buying guides and is now the Ideal Home Certified Expert in Training on Vacuums, having spent over 50 hours testing different vacuum models - as well as the latest releases in the world of dehumidifiers, electric heaters, air purifiers, and more. In doing this, Lauren is able to assess everything a consumer may want to know about the essential household products that make life so much easier. Before joining the Ideal Home team, Lauren graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing from the University of Chichester. She then dipped her toe into the world of content writing, primarily focusing on home content. After years of agency work, she decided to take the plunge and become a full-time freelancer for online publications, including Real Homes and Ideal Home. It was during this time that she also took an interest in transforming her bland Victorian terrace into a cosy home with the help of affordable DIYs and considered styling.
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 we 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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I tried the 5 most common ways to get pet hair out of carpet – here's which ones worked and which ones aren't worth it
I put different tools to the test against my fluffy cocker spaniel
By Lauren Bradbury
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How we test vacuums for pet hair at Ideal Home — the exact methodology
Our pet vacuum review process puts bestselling and newly launched vacuums through their paces, and this is how we do it
By Lauren Bradbury
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Interval cleaning will help you work smarter to keep your home clean - here's how to do it
This cleaning method will take the hassle out of hosting this Christmas
By Lauren Bradbury
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Does the Christmas tree boiling water hack work? Why experts are warning us to dodge this popular trick
It works, but it's risky
By Lauren Bradbury
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Why is my poinsettia dropping leaves? 5 common causes and how to rescue your plant
Wondering why your poinsettia is shedding its leaves? We asked the experts...
By Lauren Bradbury
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Ooni pizza oven deals – where to find the best discounts on our tried-and-tested favourites
Save big with these Ooni pizza oven deals, including the Ooni Fyra, Koda, and multi-fuel Karu outdoor ovens
By Amy Lockwood
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Does the wattage of a vacuum cleaner matter? Experts reveal whether these numbers can affect its performance
This is what your vacuum cleaner’s wattage really means for its performance
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to make your guest room feel like a hotel – 10 ways to elevate your spare room for a luxurious feel
This is how to create a five-star experience for your overnight guests
By Lauren Bradbury
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The Japanese cleaning principle of Kiyomeru will turn cleaning into a mindful ritual - here's how
If you think cleaning is a chore, Kiyomeru is for you
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to tell how much suction a vacuum cleaner has - and how the newer models are flipping the script on everything we thought we knew about suction
This is what those numbers really mean
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to choose a vacuum cleaner - 7 questions you should ask yourself before parting with your money
Everything you need to know to make an informed decision for you and your home
By Lauren Bradbury
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Can I plant bulbs in December? Yes, but experts reveal the one thing that could work against you
It’s a little late, but you can still get away with planting bulbs in December
By Lauren Bradbury
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Bird box winter care - 6 things wildlife experts are urging gardeners to do now to keep birds safe and warm
When was the last time you gave your bird box some TLC?
By Lauren Bradbury
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5 tips for using a vacuum cleaner more efficiently - little-known hacks to speed up cleaning and get the most out of your machine
Make your vacuum work harder so you don’t have to
By Lauren Bradbury
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Plants to prune in December – 5 trees, shrubs and fruits that need trimming before next spring
Give your plants some TLC this winter
By Lauren Bradbury
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Experts warn you should never vacuum Christmas tree needles - it poses serious risks, but there’s a safer £1 alternative that works in seconds
Are you vacuuming your Christmas tree needles? Experts urge you to stop what you’re doing immediately
By Lauren Bradbury
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I had an energy expert give my home a full MOT - they uncovered problems I didn’t even know I had
The OVO Home Health Report promises tailored energy-saving tips for your home - so I tried it out
By Lauren Bradbury
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Ceramic heater vs fan heater - there’s a clear winner if you want to heat your home on a budget this winter
Who wins the battle of the portable heaters?
By Lauren Bradbury
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I tested the ‘one-touch’ decluttering method in my living room - it was so quick and easy
The one-touch decluttering method is perfect for those who struggle with decision fatigue and overwhelm
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to clean a washing machine with vinegar and baking soda - make the most of these natural cleaning agents in 6 easy steps
Vinegar and baking soda are the ultimate cleaning duo
By Lauren Bradbury
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I’ve spent the past three years living with a dog that sheds - over that time, I’ve perfected exactly how to vacuum pet hair
There’s a big difference between vacuuming and vacuuming pet hair
By Lauren Bradbury
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Hosting this Christmas? Habitat’s bestselling folding chair is reduced by 20% right now - but you’ll have to act fast, as the deal ends tomorrow
Don't wait to ensure all of your guests have a seat this Christmas
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to winterise an outdoor tap - 5 steps you must follow to prevent freezing and burst pipes, according to experts
Knowing how to winterise an outdoor tap can save your bacon
By Lauren Bradbury
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5 things I wish I knew before buying a heated airer so you don’t waste your money on the wrong one like I did
If you're shopping a heated airer in the Black Friday sales, here are a few things to consider
By Lauren Bradbury