We all know the pre-vacation checklist: unplug the appliances, empty the fridge, double-check the stove, water the plants, set the alarm. But there’s one small spot most people forget to prepare before locking the door—the kitchen sink.
It might sound trivial, but ignoring your sink could welcome you home to bad odors, dampness, or even tiny insects that somehow find their way in. Luckily, there’s a weirdly simple, totally free trick that can prevent all of that: just place a paper towel over the drain and cover it with an upside-down glass.
Yes, really. Here’s why it works (and why you’ll never skip it again).
Why the Sink Matters More Than You Think
When you’re away for more than a few days, especially during warm weather, your plumbing sits idle. Without regular water running through the pipes, the water in the “trap” — that U-shaped part of your drain — can slowly evaporate. And once it’s gone, nothing stops unpleasant odors (or gases, or bugs) from drifting up into your kitchen.
That’s where the glass trick comes in.
The Quick and Easy Routine Before You Leave
You don’t need fancy gadgets or harsh cleaners. Here’s what I do before every trip:
- Give the sink a good clean, especially around the drain area.
- Pour some hot white vinegar down the drain and let it sit for a few hours to disinfect and freshen things up.
- Rinse with warm water.
- Rub a lemon slice over the drain for that bright, clean scent.
- Dry everything completely.
- Lay a paper towel over the drain.
- Cover it with an upside-down glass or cup.
And that’s it! It takes less than five minutes and guarantees you won’t come back to funky smells or little critters exploring your sink.
Why Not Just Use a Stopper?
You could—but here’s the thing: traditional sink plugs can dry out, loosen, or shift over time, especially if you’re gone for more than a few days. An upside-down glass doesn’t rely on a tight seal. It simply creates a stable air barrier that keeps moisture where it belongs—inside the pipes.
Think of it as a mini shield for your sink.
The Science (in Simple Terms)
Your drain trap holds a bit of water that blocks odors from the sewer line. When that water evaporates, air (and smells) can travel freely. But covering the drain with a paper towel and glass slows down airflow, which means less evaporation. It’s basic physics: less air movement = less moisture loss = no smells.
Going Away for a While?
If you’ll be gone for more than two or three weeks, take one extra step:
After you’ve cleaned and rinsed with vinegar and lemon, pour about a tablespoon of cooking oil into the drain. The oil will float on top of the water, sealing it and preventing evaporation altogether. Then just add your paper and glass on top. Done!
The Little Trick That Makes Coming Home Sweeter
There’s nothing like opening your front door after a long trip and breathing in fresh, clean air. No musty smell. No hint of standing water. Just your home, exactly the way you left it.
It’s amazing how something as small as an upside-down glass can make such a big difference. Sometimes, the best home hacks aren’t about fancy products—they’re about clever little rituals that make life easier (and fresher!).