Here’s Why You Should Always Leave an Upside-Down Glass and a Piece of Paper in the Sink Before Going on Vacation

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.

A moist drain is a magnet for insects :

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

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.

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

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.

Sewer Smells	Glass + paper = air seal → keeps gases trapped below
Insects	Paper blocks entry; glass adds a physical barrier
Drying Traps	Sealed environment slows evaporation
Dust & Debris	Paper catches floating particles

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

❌ 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.

While you’re at it: