Why Some People Leave an Upside-Down Glass and Paper Towel in the Sink Before Vacation

Before leaving for vacation, it is easy to focus on packing, locking the doors, and making sure household appliances are switched off. However, there is one small area worth checking before you leave: the kitchen or bathroom sink.

A sink that sits unused for several days can sometimes develop unpleasant odors, particularly if there is already a plumbing issue or buildup inside the drain. A simple precaution involving a paper towel and an upside-down glass has attracted attention as a way to cover the drain temporarily. But how useful is this trick, and what should you do to prepare your sink before a trip?

Why Can a Sink Smell After You Have Been Away?

One common cause of drain odors is a dry or poorly functioning plumbing trap. The curved section of pipe beneath most sinks is designed to hold water, creating a barrier that helps prevent sewer gases from entering the home.

If that water seal evaporates or the plumbing develops a problem, unpleasant smells may travel back through the drain. This is more likely to be a concern in drains that are rarely used or in plumbing systems with existing defects.

Food residue, grease, soap deposits, and other organic material can also contribute to unpleasant smells. Cleaning the sink and drain area before leaving can help reduce this buildup.

Does the Upside-Down Glass and Paper Towel Trick Work?

The idea is straightforward: place a paper towel over the drain opening and set an upside-down glass on top of it. The glass holds the paper in place and provides a temporary physical cover.

Some people use this method in the hope of limiting odors or preventing insects from entering through the drain opening. However, it should not be considered a reliable or airtight seal. A glass resting over a paper towel may leave gaps, and it does not address the underlying cause of plumbing odors.

If you decide to try it, make sure the glass is stable and cannot easily fall into the sink. Keep this setup away from children and pets, and remember that it is an optional precaution rather than a proven substitute for proper drain maintenance.