Heading out for a vacation or even just a long weekend? You’ve probably got your go-to pre-trip checklist: lock the doors, unplug appliances, set the thermostat, water the plants. But there’s one sneaky little detail that rarely makes the list — a simple sink trick that can save you from a not-so-welcome smell when you return.

 

The Hack:

📝 Lay a paper towel over your clean kitchen or bathroom drain, then place an upside-down glass on top. That’s it.

It may look unusual, but it’s surprisingly effective.

 

 

🚫 What It Protects Against

When your home sits empty — especially during warm weather — your plumbing doesn’t get the usual flow of water. Over time, the water inside the U-shaped “trap” beneath your sink can evaporate. That water is more than just sitting there; it acts as a barrier to keep unpleasant sewer gases from drifting into your home.

When the barrier’s gone, you could come back to an unpleasant odor greeting you at the door.

And that’s not the only issue…

 

🍽️ The Pest Problem

Still drains can attract unwelcome guests. Cockroaches, drain flies, and ants sometimes use warm, damp pipe openings as entry points. An unused sink can be prime real estate for pests looking for a new home.

 

 

🧼 Bonus Prep for Extra Freshness

Before you cover your drain, try this quick cleaning routine:

💧 Pour 1 cup of hot white vinegar down the drain.

⏳ Let it sit for a few hours to break down buildup.

🚿 Rinse with warm water.

🍋 Wipe the drain opening with a lemon wedge for a fresh scent.

Once the drain is dry, place the paper towel and glass.

 

 

🏆 Why This Works So Well

Sink stoppers can loosen, shift, or degrade over time — especially in varying temperatures. A simple glass and paper towel stay in place for weeks without effort.

This hack has been quietly used by seasoned travelers, RV owners, and home repair pros for years. It doesn’t require special tools or products, just what you already have in your kitchen.

 

 

🌴 Travel Smart, Return to Freshness

After a trip, the last thing you want is to open the door to musty air or pests in your kitchen. In under a minute, you can:

Clean your sink

Cover your drain

Flip a glass

Leave worry-free

You’ll come home to fresh air — and none of the unwelcome surprises. ✈️🏡