You’ve checked every box before your vacation:
✅ Fridge emptied
✅ Lights on timers
✅ Alarm system armed
✅ Plants watered
But there’s one sneaky detail most travelers forget — the sink .
And skipping it could mean coming home to a musty smell, sewer stink, or even a surprise insect invasion .
The fix? A simple, cost-free trick used by plumbers and cleaning pros:
👉 Place a paper towel over the drain, then cover it with an upside-down glass.
It sounds odd — but this tiny move can prevent odors, pests, and moisture issues while you’re away.
Let’s dive into why your sink becomes a problem when you’re gone — and how this genius hack solves it.
Why the Sink Is a Hidden Vacation Risk
When you’re away for more than a few days , your plumbing goes quiet. No dishwashing, no handwashing, no water flow.
And that’s when trouble starts.
🚫 1. Dry P-Traps Let Sewer Gases In