Here’s why you should always leave an upturned glass and a piece of paper in the sink before going on vacation

Before you head out for a relaxing vacation, you probably have a mental checklist of things to do: unplugging electronics, securing your doors, and maybe even arranging for a neighbor to water your plants. But there’s one often-overlooked area that can cause big headaches if ignored: your kitchen or bathroom sink. Many people don’t realize that leaving your sink unattended can lead to a few unwelcome surprises upon your return, from strange smells to unwanted houseguests.

The Hidden Risks of an Empty House and an Uncovered Sink

When your home is empty for an extended period, especially in warmer weather, your plumbing systems can experience reduced water flow. This lack of regular use can cause the water in your drain traps to evaporate. Once the water barrier is gone, it’s an open invitation for sewer gases to seep into your home through the drains. These gases can create an unpleasant, musty odor that permeates your entire house. Imagine walking into that after a wonderful vacation!

Beyond just bad smells, a dry or stagnant drain can also become a magnet for pests. Insects like gnats, ants, and even cockroaches are drawn to moist environments, and they can easily make their way into your home through those unprotected pipes. You certainly don’t want to come back to an unexpected pest infestation.

The Expert-Recommended Solution: An Upturned Glass and a Piece of Paper

Fortunately, there’s a brilliantly simple and completely free solution that experts recommend to avoid these issues. Before you leave, just grab an upside-down glass and a paper towel. Place the paper towel directly over your sink drain, then cover it with the inverted glass. This clever setup acts as an effective barrier, helping to prevent those unwanted gases and persistent pests from entering your home.

Unlike traditional sink stoppers, which can sometimes shift or lose their effectiveness over time due to pressure or wear, this “short trick” provides a surprisingly secure and reliable barrier. It doesn’t rely on a tight seal that could fail; instead, the weight of the glass and the placement of the paper towel naturally deter anything from coming up through the drain. This makes it a dependable choice for ensuring your peace of mind while you’re enjoying your time away.

Simple Steps for a Prepared Sink

Getting your sink ready for your trip is quick and easy. Follow these steps for the best results:

1. Thorough Cleaning: Start by giving your sink a good clean.
2. Vinegar Rinse: Pour hot white vinegar down the drain. Let it sit for a few hours to help break down any grime and neutralize odors.
3. Warm Water Flush: Rinse the drain thoroughly with warm water.
4. Lemon Freshness: For an extra burst of freshness, rub a lemon wedge around the drain opening. This will leave your sink smelling clean and inviting.
5. The “Upturned Glass” Setup: Once the drain is dry, place a paper towel over the drain, and then carefully put an upside-down glass on top of the paper towel.

Why This Method Outperforms Standard Sink Stoppers

You might wonder, “Why not just use a standard stopper?” While convenient for everyday use, traditional stoppers can have their drawbacks for longer absences. They can sometimes shift or even warp due to changes in temperature, potentially losing their effectiveness over an extended period. The inverted glass method, however, offers a more dependable and low-maintenance solution for longer trips. Since it doesn’t require a tight seal, it’s less prone to failure and will keep your drain protected until you return.

Enjoy a Peaceful Return

Coming home after a wonderful vacation should be a joy, not a chore. The last thing you want is to be greeted by musty odors or an unexpected pest problem. By taking just a few moments to implement this small but mighty trick – covering your sink drain with an upside-down glass and a piece of paper towel – you can help ensure that your return is “quiet, odor-free, and exactly as you left it.” It’s a tiny effort that makes a big difference in maintaining the comfort and freshness of your home.