Cynthia Lawrence
As the Homes Content Editor, Cynthia Lawrence covers all things homes, interior decorating, and garden-related. She has a wealth of editorial experience testing the latest, ‘must-have’ home appliances, writing buying guides and the handy ‘how to’ features.
Her work has been published in various titles including, T3, Top Ten Reviews, Ideal Home, Real Homes, Livingetc. and House Beautiful, amongst many.
With a rather unhealthy obsession for all things homes and interiors, she also has an interior design blog for style inspiration and savvy storage solutions (get rid of that clutter!). When she’s not testing cool products, she’ll be searching online for more decor ideas to spruce up her family home or looking for a great bargain!
Latest articles by Cynthia Lawrence
![Solar lights in backyard](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BwYZ8rv7UyZRcGMstZkzff-320-80.jpg)
I'm a home editor and these are the 3 Prime Day solar light deals I recommend to light up your yard
By Cynthia Lawrence published
If you want to instantly elevate your backyard this summer, here are the top solar light deals I’d recommend snapping up right now.
![A clear phone case being cleaned with dish soap and a toothbrush](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/o2u8uVBWEH7xNbKUosok84-320-80.jpg)
How to clean a clear phone case and make it look brand new
By Katie Mortram, Cynthia Lawrence last updated
If your phone case is looking grimy, here's how to clean a clear phone case and remove unsightly stains.
![Roomba S9+ cleans crumbs off floor](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ZXebVq2j72w6uHANUWM6bE-320-80.jpg)
Best robot vacuums in 2024 tested and rated
By Katie Mortram, Cynthia Lawrence, Hunter Fenollol last updated
These are the best robot vacuums we've tested with models from Roomba, Shark, Eufy, iLife and more.
![Ziploc bags on table](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/cdpCBcwQSUnvGngPZh4N5K-320-80.jpg)
7 clever uses for Ziploc bags that may surprise you
By Cynthia Lawrence published
These popular, reusable bags can come in handy for other things besides food storage. Find out these clever hacks for Ziploc bags.
![Two glasses of frappe coffee on a table](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/woEEBHwpC2GSbPfygALpZG-320-80.jpg)
How to make a frappe coffee in 3 simple steps — with or without a machine
By Cynthia Lawrence published
As the weather warms up, and you don’t fancy a hot espresso, here’s how to make a refreshing frappe coffee to keep you cool.
![A green kitchen with a range of appliances](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/pQHtmhdjE97tuZrT9qFaZk-320-80.jpg)
Appliance expert reveals the 3 'vampire devices' you should unplug before going on vacation
By Cynthia Lawrence published
Before you’re all packed and ready to leave for your summer destination, be sure to unplug these kitchen appliances. An expert shares why.
![best patio heaters](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KnQsSUQuTbhD8HA4C6ekWZ-320-80.jpg)
The best patio heaters in 2024
By Cynthia Lawrence, TJ Fink last updated
The best patio heaters will keep you warm and toasty outdoors when the sun goes down.
![Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/74tjbRaJsDnhFsE2WHdnCP-320-80.jpg)
Here are 3 Prime Day beating deals on Shark vacuum cleaners that you can buy right now
By Cynthia Lawrence published
Looking to upgrade your vacuum? These top Shark vacuum cleaners have just dropped in price ahead of Prime Day — here’s what I’d buy now
![best desks in 2020](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/EhnpfxH6CsQFxeYz9S3Kb8-320-80.jpg)
The best desks in 2024
By Katie Mortram, Cynthia Lawrence last updated
Work in comfort and style with the best desks to suit every lifestyle, home and budget.
![Intex PureSpa Plus](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/sNKRuP7Fzium4UepnGJCDB-320-80.jpg)
Best inflatable hot tubs in 2024
By Katie Mortram, Cynthia Lawrence, Camilla Sharman last updated
If you want the spa experience at home, here are the best inflatable hot tubs to suit every backyard and budget.
![Best cutting boards](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ogZUN55cUGevsMBSVrGShN-320-80.jpg)
Best cutting boards in 2024: Tested and rated
By Cynthia Lawrence last updated
Spend less time prepping meals with the best cutting boards for every kitchen
![Electric Range Oven](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/qyFMFXyHFjjuCfb7LBQGjN-320-80.jpg)
Best electric ranges in 2024
By Cynthia Lawrence, Katie Mortram, Camilla Sharman last updated
Cook up the perfect feast with one of the best electric ranges for your kitchen to suit any kitchen, need and budget.
![White cordless vacuum cleaner in living room](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/WHjcvjWaovfzpTrkYnihxW-320-80.jpg)
5 surefire signs it's time to replace your vacuum cleaner
By Cynthia Lawrence published
If your vacuum cleaner isn’t doing its job, maybe it’s time to get an upgrade? Here’s how to know when it’s time to replace your vacuum cleaner and what to check first.
![A Golden Retriever sitting on a sofa as someone vacuums the hardwood floor in front of it](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/bGYjpUL4gdDfNXzwtSwY6R-320-80.jpg)
Best vacuum cleaners 2024: Top picks for spotless floors
By Cynthia Lawrence, Camilla Sharman last updated
Clean up smart with one of the best vacuum cleaners to keep your floors spotless.
![Solar Light](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/UmjKRAbjhk4qGGCh3n2vVk-320-80.jpg)
Best solar lights in 2024
By Cynthia Lawrence last updated
Light up your backyard when the sun goes down with the best solar lights.
![Instant Pot Duo Plus with pasta inside](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/NEduRJweaVvbgoBx2kCrPU-320-80.jpg)
I test appliances for a living and this Instant Pot Duo is the best deal I’ve seen ahead of Prime Day
By Cynthia Lawrence published
If you’re after an Instant Pot, this Duo Plus just got a massive reduction ahead of Prime Day — so hurry before they get snapped up.
![Best dehumidifiers](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/MNjeNXazA3sKAcWCNAoJHb-320-80.jpg)
The best dehumidifiers in 2024
By Cynthia Lawrence, Emily Long last updated
The best dehumidifiers to suit every home and lifestyle.
![Watering garden with sprinkler](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/LSqWc33bga4aRWu4Jcctnj-320-80.jpg)
5 ways to protect your yard in a heatwave — tips from experts to use now
By Cynthia Lawrence published
Don’t let the hot weather ruin your lawn this summer. Here are ways to cool your yard and help it survive a heatwave.
![Man sweating on the sofa with AC unit behind him](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/KXyY2ZrpvXnuLzdJQeJGm-320-80.jpg)
5 ways to prepare your AC for a heatwave
By Cynthia Lawrence published
With the temperatures going up, make sure your AC won’t let you down this summer — by doing these crucial things.
![Best smart light bulbs](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/ijJXFAxT8bTDd8GGFF356S-320-80.jpg)
The best smart lights in 2024
By Anthony Spadafora last updated
Light up your home in style with the best smart lights for every home and budget.
![A cordless vacuum cleaner being pushed through the living room with a sofa behind](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/u6TEuWiLkKHcMtVntjC97T-320-80.jpg)
I tried this simple vacuum cleaner hack — and my room smelled amazing
By Cynthia Lawrence published
If you want to fragrance your air while cleaning your floors, this simple vacuum cleaner hack will surprise you.
![Mowing grass](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/H4wCeTCUPLUvrzXe9GUsd6-320-80.jpg)
7 common lawn care mistakes you’re probably making right now
By Cynthia Lawrence last updated
If you want to have the best looking garden in the neighborhood, don’t make these lawn care mistakes.
![Washing machine](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/BbGYHn9hp3ou6PL5EEAdhG-320-80.jpg)
Experts say this common laundry mistake could be damaging your washing machine
By Cynthia Lawrence published
Before you tackle your household chores, be sure to avoid this laundry habit that could be killing your washing machine.