
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 110 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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When to apply lawn sand to improve drainage - experts urge gardeners to complete this task in the next few days before it’s too late
Lawn sanding can prevent moss and weed growth, and leave your grass looking greener than ever
By Lauren Bradbury
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Is it worth insulating a greenhouse? This is why experts urge gardeners to add an extra layer of warmth to their growing space this winter
This is how to insulate a greenhouse in 5 easy steps
By Lauren Bradbury
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Bird bath winter care - 6 expert-approved tips to prevent freezing and keep it clean
Give your bird bath some TLC this winter
By Lauren Bradbury
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I tested the Dyson V12 Detect Slim Absolute - it’s ideal if you’re willing to trade a larger dust bin for a lighter weight
I put Dyson's lightest cordless vacuum cleaner through its paces
By Lauren Bradbury
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How long does a dehumidifier take to dry out a room? Experts warn these 4 things could be adding hours (or even days) to the job
So, how long do you need to keep your dehumidifier running for?
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to clean mould from window sills - 4 household products you can use to restore your windows to their former glory
Restore your window sills to their former glory
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to remove wallpaper - expert-approved steps to prevent damage and ensure a smooth finish
Out with the old, in with the new
By Lauren Bradbury
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At what temperature does grass stop growing?
Experts reveal the exact temperature and what that means for your winter lawn care
By Lauren Bradbury
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Vacuum cleaner deals – where to shop right now for last chance sales on Dyson, Shark, Vax, and more
Save on your new vacuum by knowing how to find the best discounts
By Lauren Bradbury
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Can you paint over caulk? It’s tricky but not impossible if you follow these 4 expert-approved steps
Painting caulk may seem like an easy task, but it requires some special attention
By Lauren Bradbury
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These are the 4 things I wish I knew before buying outdoor solar lights, so you don’t make the same mistakes I did
Outdoor solar lights can be both effective and aesthetic, but only if you buy the right ones
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to dry bedding indoors in winter - 6 ways to dry duvets, pillows, and bed sheets quickly
Drying bedding indoors in winter is tricky, but not impossible
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to clean a kitchen like a professional chef - 6 tricks of the trade you can use in your own home
Do as the pros do
By Lauren Bradbury
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How deep to plant crocus bulbs - experts reveal the exact depth required to prevent bulb rot and encourage growth
You definitely don’t want to plant too deep…
By Lauren Bradbury
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Does secondary glazing film reduce window condensation? Experts say it can - and you can buy it for as little as £2.99
It’s never been easier to prevent window condensation in winter
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to make an artificial Christmas wreath look expensive – 7 tricks professional florists and stylists always use
7 easy ways to elevate your Christmas wreath as recommended by florists and stylists
By Lauren Bradbury
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Can you kill weeds in autumn? Experts reveal that completing this task now could keep your garden weed-free next year
Get a head start to keep next year’s garden weed-free
By Lauren Bradbury
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Dehumidifier vs tumble dryer - there's a clear winner if you want to dry your clothes on a budget this winter
This appliance will dry your clothes AND save you money
By Lauren Bradbury
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Do windows need cleaning in winter? How this simple task can help to reduce your energy bills and improve your mood
Cleaning windows in winter may sound pointless, but it has more benefits than you'd think
By Lauren Bradbury
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I just found out that my washing machine is lying to me - this is why yours probably is too, and it's not a bad thing
You’re not imagining it - but should you be concerned?
By Lauren Bradbury
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Why is my cyclamen drooping? 5 reasons why - and how to perk it up in time for Christmas, according to experts
Don’t worry; there’s plenty you can do to perk your cyclamen back up
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to prevent mould in wardrobes - expert-approved tips to protect your furniture and your clothes
Say goodbye to mould for good
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to prune fuchsias – the techniques you need to try for your bushiest plants yet
Bushier plants are just a prune away...
By Lauren Bradbury
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Where to buy a sofa – I've spent over 25 hours testing sofas and these are the 10 brands I'd recommend
I’m a sofa expert – and these are my top 10 recommended places where to buy a sofa
By Lauren Bradbury