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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Does an air purifier cool a room? The experts have bad news for those looking to beat the heat this summer
There is an alternative to consider, though
By Lauren Bradbury
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The best mattress for side sleepers, plus more expert advice for sleeping comfortably
We asked various sleep experts what's the best mattress for side sleepers, which pillow to opt for, and how to sleep more comfortably on your side
By Lauren Bradbury
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This is how much it costs to replace gutters around a house - and how to spot when it's time to switch the old with the new
There are so many factors to consider
By Lauren Bradbury
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Why are my tomato leaves curling? 5 common reasons and what you can do to fix it, according to experts
Tomato leaf curl is more common than you’d think
By Lauren Bradbury
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Should you deadhead agapanthus? You can, but there’s another option you might want to consider beforehand
You can deadhead agapanthus, but that doesn’t mean you should
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to deadhead sweet peas in 3 easy steps to promote growth and prolong their blooming period
Keep this cottage garden favourite alive for longer
By Lauren Bradbury
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7 ways to reuse memory foam – how to breathe new life into your old mattress or mattress topper
Handy ways to repurpose memory foam
By Lauren Bradbury
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Everdure vs Weber - Does the classic American or the stylish Australian win the battle of the BBQ brands?
We’ve compared everything you need to know
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to install an outdoor hot water tap for cleaning your patio, washing the dog, or filling the paddling pool
Want hot water on tap? This is everything you need to know
By Lauren Bradbury
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How do you use a heated clothes airer effectively? Quick and easy tips to get the most out of this trusty appliance
If you look after your heated clothes airer, it’ll look after you
By Lauren Bradbury
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Can you leave a heated clothes airer on overnight? It’s possible, but only if you follow these expert-approved safety tips
You need to check a few things first
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to recycle a mattress - who can help and how much it’ll cost you
Everything you need to know about recycling a mattress
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to choose the right mattress size for you, your sleeping position, and your bedroom
Size does matter when you’re buying a new mattress
By Lauren Bradbury
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Painting over new plaster - How to do it and how long you have to wait before getting the paintbrushes out, according to experts
No, you can’t paint straight onto new plaster…
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to keep spiders off garden furniture - 5 ways to keep these creepy crawlies (and their cobwebs) at bay
Sorry, spiders, but you weren’t invited…
By Lauren Bradbury
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Does baking soda kill weeds? Yes, but experts urge you to think twice before using this cupboard essential in your garden
Yes...but it’s not the only thing it can kill
By Lauren Bradbury
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What is drip watering? How this handy irrigation system can save water and stop weeds from invading your garden
Say goodbye to underwatering and overwatering your plants
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to harvest sunflower seeds - you'll need to act soon if you want to grow these sunny blooms for free next year
The experts explain everything you need to know about harvesting sunflower seeds for planting
By Lauren Bradbury
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What to do with sunflowers after flowering to ensure you get the most out of these sunny blooms
You have two options to choose from
By Lauren Bradbury
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What are the best security measures for a house? 6 ways to deter potential thieves and protect your home
Burglars, beware
By Lauren Bradbury
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Gas grill vs pellet grill - Should you invest in a tried-and-trusted classic or the new BBQ on the block?
The stakes (or should we say steaks?) are high…
By Lauren Bradbury
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7 plants you should never put in pots or raised planters, according to experts
These plants really don’t like confined spaces…
By Lauren Bradbury
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Are home security systems worth it? We asked the experts whether it’s worth paying extra to protect your home
We weigh up the pros and cons of home security systems
By Lauren Bradbury
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Experts reveal the secret to getting rid of flying ants
Sorry, flying ants. It’s time for you to fly away home
By Lauren Bradbury