Before heading out on vacation, most people take care of the obvious tasks: cleaning out the fridge, setting lights on timers, arming the alarm system, and watering the plants. But there’s one small household detail that often goes unnoticed — the sink drain. While it may seem harmless, leaving it unprotected for days or weeks can sometimes lead to unpleasant odors or minor pest issues. Fortunately, there’s a simple and cost-free precaution that many home maintenance professionals recommend: placing a paper towel over the drain and covering it with an upside-down glass before you leave.
When a home sits unused, the plumbing system also becomes inactive. Every sink has a curved pipe underneath called a P-trap, which holds a small amount of water. This water acts as a barrier, helping to prevent sewer gases from entering your home. Over time — especially in warm or dry weather — that water can slowly evaporate if no one is running the tap. If the water level drops too low, faint odors may rise through the drain. In addition, damp, unused drains can occasionally attract small insects such as drain flies or ants looking for moisture. While this doesn’t happen in every home, taking preventative steps can offer peace of mind while you’re away.
The glass-and-paper method works as a temporary seal. First, make sure the sink is clean and free of food debris or residue. Lightly dry the basin so there is no standing water. Then place a paper towel (or coffee filter) directly over the drain opening. Finally, set a drinking glass upside down over the paper, ensuring it fully covers the drain. The paper helps block dust and minor condensation, while the glass reduces airflow and slows evaporation inside the pipe. This simple barrier can also discourage insects from entering through the drain.
For added precaution, you may also run water in all sinks just before leaving to refresh the P-traps. Empty trash bins, wipe down surfaces, and ensure garbage disposals are clean. If you plan to be gone for an extended period, asking a trusted neighbor to briefly run water in the sinks every week can also help. Small preparations like these take only a few minutes but can make returning home much more pleasant. Sometimes, the simplest home care habits provide the most reliable protection.