The vacation trick you never knew you needed: Why you should always leave a glass and paper in the sink before you travel
We all know the pre-vacation routine: locking doors, setting the alarm, unplugging appliances. But there’s a simple, often overlooked trick that can save you from unpleasant surprises: Place an upturned glass and a piece of paper in the sink.
Why This Trick Works
1. Prevents Dry Traps and Sewer Gases
Your sink’s trap (the U-shaped pipe underneath) retains water and forms a seal that prevents sewer gases from rising into your home. If you’re gone for weeks, the water can evaporate, destroying the seal and allowing unpleasant odors (or even pests) to invade.
The glass trick: Turn a glass filled with water upside down so that water slowly drains out and the siphon remains closed.
For longer trips: Add a teaspoon of mineral oil to further slow evaporation.
2. Acts as a leak detector
: A piece of paper (a tissue, kitchen towel, or even a napkin) placed under the glass serves as a silent alarm. Glass sink cover
Paper sink cover
If pipes leak while you are away, water stains will appear on the paper—a sign to look for hidden damage.
3. Keep pests out.
A dry drain is an invitation to insects, rodents, and even snakes. Keep the trap moist to prevent them from entering.
Here’s how to do it right:
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