Here’s the Reason to Always Place an Upside-Down Glass and a Piece of Paper in the Sink Before You Leave for Vacation

🚫 The Problem: Evaporating Drain Traps = Smelly Surprise

Every sink has a U-shaped pipe underneath called the P-trap.

It holds water that acts as a seal against sewer gases—blocking foul odors, methane, and even pests from rising up through your pipes.

But when you leave your house empty for days or weeks:

No water runs down the drain

The air gets dry (especially with AC or heat running)

The water in the trap evaporates

➡️ Result?

No seal.

No barrier.

Just open access for rotten-egg smells, drain flies, cockroaches, and ants to move in.

Not exactly the welcome-home vibe you wanted.

✅ The Solution: Paper Towel + Upside-Down Glass = DIY Drain Seal

Here’s how to stop it—using only two things you already have:

Step-by-Step: The 60-Second Hack

Clean & Dry the Sink

Wipe it down so no food residue attracts bugs.

Optional Deep Clean (Recommended!)

Pour 1 cup hot white vinegar down the drain.

Let sit 1–2 hours to dissolve grease and kill bacteria.

Rinse with warm water.

Rub a lemon wedge around the drain for freshness 🍋

Cover the Drain

Lay a single sheet of paper towel over the drain opening.

Seal It

Gently place a drinking glass upside-down over the paper.

That’s it.

No tape.

No silicone.

No special tools.

Just science and simplicity.

🔬 Why This Works So Well

Item

Purpose

Paper Towel

Blocks insects and debris while allowing slight breathability (prevents mold)

Upside-Down Glass

Creates a physical barrier that traps moisture underneath, slowing evaporation of any remaining water in the trap

Air Pocket

The sealed space under the glass helps maintain humidity—keeping the P-trap wet longer

💡 Think of it like a mini greenhouse for your drain—protecting that vital water barrier.

🐛 Bonus: Keeps Bugs Out Too

Drains are highways for pests when left unsealed:

Drain flies lay eggs in moist gunk

Cockroaches use pipes as entry points

Ants follow damp trails into kitchens

The paper-and-glass combo blocks them all—without chemicals or traps.

🏡 Where to Use This Hack

✅ Kitchen sink – Most used, most likely to dry out

✅ Bathroom sinks – Often forgotten during trips

✅ Tub & shower drains – Larger traps, but still vulnerable

👉 Use a slightly larger plate or bowl if needed!