The Surprising Reason You Should Leave an Upside-Down Glass in Your Sink Before Vacation
When it’s time to head out on vacation, most of us are pretty diligent. We unplug appliances, double-check the locks, clean out the fridge, and set the thermostat. But there’s one small yet crucial detail that often gets overlooked—the sink drain.
If ignored, that drain could welcome you back with foul odors, lingering moisture, or even unwanted pests. Luckily, there’s a brilliantly simple hack that takes seconds and could save you from a smelly homecoming: just place a piece of paper towel over the sink drain and cover it with an upside-down glass.
Why Your Sink Could Be a Problem While You’re Away
When you’re not running water regularly, your home’s plumbing—particularly the P-traps—can dry out. These traps normally hold a bit of water that acts as a barrier to keep sewer gases from entering your home. But if that water evaporates while you’re gone, those unpleasant smells can drift right in.
Worse still, moist environments and stagnant pipes can attract pests such as fruit flies, ants, or even cockroaches—especially during the warmer months. And nobody wants to return to a musty, bug-infested kitchen.
The Upside-Down Glass Hack: How It Works
This trick couldn’t be easier: lay a sheet of paper towel or toilet paper flat over your clean drain, then place a drinking glass upside-down directly on top. That’s it.
The glass acts as a barrier, sealing the drain from air and insects without relying on suction or tight-fitting parts. Unlike traditional drain stoppers that can warp, loosen, or leak, this low-tech solution stays put and does its job quietly and reliably.
Your Pre-Vacation Sink Prep Checklist
To ensure your sink is fresh and bug-free when you return, take a few minutes to do the following:
Clean the sink — scrub the basin, faucet, and drain.
Deodorize — pour hot white vinegar down the drain and let it sit for a couple of hours.
Flush — rinse with warm water.
Freshen — rub a lemon half over the drain to eliminate lingering smells.
Dry — wipe the area thoroughly.
Cover — place a paper towel over the drain opening.
Seal — position an inverted glass or cup over the towel.
Why Not Just Use a Stopper?
Sure, sink stoppers seem like an easy solution, but over time, they can shift out of place or fail to maintain a tight seal—especially in hot, humid conditions. The upside-down glass method doesn’t rely on suction or pressure. It’s gravity-based, simple, and far more reliable.
The Benefits: Simple, Safe, and Sustainable
✅ Eco-Friendly: No harsh chemicals or sprays needed.
✅ Cost-Free: Uses only what you already have at home.
✅ Versatile: Works in bathroom sinks and even bidets.
✅ Safe: No risk of damaging pipes or fixtures.
Come Home to a Fresh, Clean Space
Imagine walking through your door after a long trip. Instead of a stale or sour smell, you’re greeted by clean, neutral air—just the way you left it. No bugs. No mildew. No mystery odors.
All thanks to one tiny trick with a piece of paper and a glass.
Sometimes, the best part of going away is coming home—and finding it exactly how you want it.