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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How to store a strimmer for winter - from protecting the power source to choosing the perfect location
How will you be storing your strimmer this winter?
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to change lawn mower oil - and why now is your last chance to do it, according to experts
When was the last time you changed your lawn mower oil?
By Lauren Bradbury
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Can painting radiators black reduce your energy bills? We asked the experts, and they have good news and bad news
Will a coat of paint be your secret weapon this winter?
By Lauren Bradbury
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Can you store a lawn mower on the wall? Experts urge gardeners to proceed with caution when choosing this space-saving storage hack
You can store *some* lawn mowers on the wall, but not all of them
By Lauren Bradbury
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Are vacuum attachments universal? The big brand tools that can (and can’t) be used across the board
Can you use your vacuum cleaner attachments across the board? We’ve got the answers
By Lauren Bradbury
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When to prune pyracantha - the exact time to prune firethorn hedges and shrubs to promote flowering and fruiting
Give this autumnal favourite the TLC it deserves
By Lauren Bradbury
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I tested one of Dyson’s oldest and cheapest cordless vacuum cleaners - this is why I’m swapping my newer machine for this veteran
The Dyson V8 Absolute is almost a decade old, but is it still worth it in 2024? I tested it to find out
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to plant daffodils in clumps - bulk-plant these beautiful blooms for an even bigger display next year
There are daffodils… And then there are *clumps* of daffodils
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to prepare your patio for winter - experts urge homeowners to complete these 7 tasks before the cold and wet weather takes hold
From protecting your plants to sealing your pavers, these tips will keep your patio in shape until winter
By Lauren Bradbury
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How to plant crocus bulbs - fill your winter and spring gardens with these stunning blooms
Plant crocus bulbs in 6 easy steps
By Lauren Bradbury
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Can you put lino over tiles? You can, but experts urge you to proceed with caution if you want a flawless finish
It’s not a simple answer
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