A Tiny Sink Step Worth Trying Before Your Next Trip

Vacation prep usually means checking locks, emptying the fridge, lowering or raising the thermostat, and making sure nothing important is left running. But there is one small spot many people forget until they come home to an unpleasant smell: the sink drain.

When a sink sits unused for several days, especially in a warm or dry home, the water inside the drain trap can slowly evaporate. That water normally helps block sewer odors from moving back into the room. If the trap dries out enough, a bathroom, laundry room, or guest sink may smell stale when you return.

The Simple Drain Cover Trick

One easy precaution is to cover the sink drain before you leave. A common method is to place a piece of paper towel over the drain opening, then set an upside-down glass on top of it.

The paper towel covers the opening, while the glass adds enough weight to help keep it from shifting. It creates a temporary physical barrier over the drain while the sink is not being used.

This may help reduce odors from moving into the room and may also discourage small insects from coming through the drain opening. It is not complicated, and it costs almost nothing, which makes it a practical addition to a vacation checklist.

Why This Matters

Small home-maintenance steps can make a difference when a property is vacant for several days. Nobody wants to come back from a trip, after paying for flights, hotels, rental cars, or other travel costs, and immediately deal with a smelly bathroom or a possible plumbing concern.