You’ve checked every box before your vacation:

✅ Fridge emptied
✅ Lights on timers
✅ Alarm system armed
✅ Plants watered

But there’s one sneaky detail most travelers forget — the sink .

And skipping it could mean coming home to a musty smell, sewer stink, or even a surprise insect invasion .

The fix? A simple, cost-free trick used by plumbers and cleaning pros:
👉 Place a paper towel over the drain, then cover it with an upside-down glass.

It sounds odd — but this tiny move can prevent odors, pests, and moisture issues while you’re away.

Let’s dive into why your sink becomes a problem when you’re gone — and how this genius hack solves it.

Why the Sink Is a Hidden Vacation Risk

When you're away for more than a few days , your plumbing goes quiet. No dishwashing, no handwashing, no water flow.

And that’s when trouble starts.

🚫 1. Dry P-Traps Let Sewer Gases In

Every sink has a P-trap — the U-shaped pipe under the drain that holds water to seal out sewer gases .

But if you’re gone for a week or more — especially in hot, dry weather — that water evaporates .

Once the seal is broken, rotten-egg-smelling sewer gas (hydrogen sulfide) can rise up into your kitchen or bathroom.

📢 Real talk: Coming home to a foul stink is not the vacation welcome you want.

🐜 2. Damp Drains Attract Pests

A moist drain is a magnet for insects :

• Drain flies (aka “sewer gnats”)
• Fruit flies
• Ants
• Even cockroaches

They can crawl up through the pipes and into your home if there’s no barrier.

💧 3. Stagnant Moisture Breeds Mold & Mildew

Even a small amount of standing moisture can lead to mold growth — especially in bathroom sinks or disposals.

The Simple Fix: Paper Towel + Upside-Down Glass

This two-second trick stops all three problems — and it’s 100% free.

✅ How It Works:

1. Cover the drain with a paper towel or coffee filter
   → Blocks bugs and dust from entering
   → Absorbs any minor condensation

2. Place a drinking glass upside-down over the paper
   → Seals the drain completely
   → Prevents evaporation of any remaining water in the trap
   → Stops sewer gases from escaping

It’s like a mini airlock for your sink.

🛠️ Step-by-Step: The 10-Second Vacation Sink Hack

1. Clean the sink – Wipe it down to remove food debris or toothpaste gunk
2. Dry it slightly – No need to be perfect — just remove standing water
3. Place a paper towel over the drain
4. Cover with an upside-down glass (any size works)
5. Repeat for all sinks (kitchen, bathroom, utility room)

That’s it. You’re done.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a clear glass so it’s obvious the sink is “protected” — helps house sitters or family know not to turn on the tap.

Why This Trick Works So Well

It’s passive protection — no electricity, no cost, no effort.

What NOT to Do Before You Leave

❌ Don’t pour water down the drain “to keep the trap full”
— It will still evaporate in hot weather.

❌ Don’t leave the sink wet and uncovered
— Invites mold and bugs.

❌ Don’t use plastic wrap or tape
— Can melt, look messy, or damage surfaces.

✅ Do this instead : The glass-and-paper method is cleaner, safer, and more effective.

Bonus Tips for a Pest-Free, Fresh Home Return

While you’re at it:

• Pour ¼ cup of vinegar or bleach down drains before leaving (kills buildup)
• Run water in all sinks right before you leave to top off P-traps
• Keep garbage cans empty and sealed
• Ask a neighbor to run water briefly every 4–5 days if you’re gone over 10 days

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ How long does the paper and glass trick work?

For 7–14 days , depending on humidity and temperature. Perfect for most vacations.

❓ Can I use something else instead of a glass?

Yes — a mug, jar, or small bowl works too. Just make sure it seals the drain completely .

❓ Will this work for bathroom drains too?

Yes! Especially important for showers and bathroom sinks — common spots for drain flies.

❓ Do I need to do this for every sink?

Yes — each drain is a potential entry point. Better safe than sorry!

Final Thoughts

You’ve packed your bags, set the thermostat, and locked the door.

Now, before you walk out, take 10 seconds to cover each sink drain with a paper towel and an upside-down glass .

It’s a tiny act — but it could save you from:

• A stinky homecoming
• A pest infestation
• A deep-clean nightmare

Sometimes, the smallest tricks make the biggest difference.

So next time you travel, let your sink rest in peace — covered, sealed, and ready for your return.