Before heading out on vacation, most of us remember the big things: unplugging electronics, locking doors, taking out the trash, and turning off the main water supply. But there’s one small household task that’s surprisingly easy to forget—and it could make a noticeable difference when you return home.
Your kitchen and bathroom sink drains may seem harmless while you’re away, but if your home sits empty for an extended period, they can become a source of unpleasant odors and even attract unwanted insects. Fortunately, a few minutes of preparation before you leave can help keep your home fresh and comfortable.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a month-long vacation, these simple plumbing tips can help protect your home and give you greater peace of mind.
Why Sink Drains Can Smell After Your Vacation
Every sink, shower, bathtub, and floor drain in your home contains a P-trap—the curved section of pipe beneath the drain.
The purpose of the P-trap is simple but important. It holds a small amount of water that creates a seal between your home and the sewer system. This water barrier helps prevent:
- Sewer gases from entering your home
- Unpleasant drain odors
- Some insects from traveling through plumbing pipes
If a drain goes unused for several weeks, especially during hot or dry weather, some of that water can slowly evaporate. As the water level drops, odors may begin to escape through the drain.
Unused guest bathrooms, laundry room drains, basement floor drains, and vacation homes are especially prone to this problem.
Can Covering the Drain With a Paper Towel and Upside-Down Glass Help?
A popular travel hack recommends placing a paper towel over the drain and covering it with an upside-down drinking glass before leaving home.
The idea is that the glass creates a temporary barrier that may help reduce airflow through the drain, potentially slowing evaporation and discouraging insects from entering if the water seal weakens.
While this trick may provide some additional protection, plumbing experts generally agree that it should not replace proper drain preparation. The most effective way to prevent odors is to make sure every P-trap is filled with fresh water before you leave.
Think of the glass-and-paper method as an extra precaution rather than a guaranteed solution.
How to Prepare Your Sink Before Leaving
Taking a few simple steps before your trip can help minimize odors and keep your drains cleaner.
1. Clean the Sink Thoroughly
Remove food particles, grease, toothpaste residue, soap scum, and other buildup from both the sink and the drain opening.
A clean sink is less likely to develop unpleasant smells while you’re away.
2. Freshen the Drain
Pour hot white vinegar down the drain to help loosen buildup and reduce lingering odors.
Allow it to sit for a few hours before flushing with warm water.
3. Add a Fresh Citrus Scent
Rub a lemon wedge around the drain and sink basin for a naturally fresh aroma.
While this won’t disinfect the plumbing, it can help eliminate surface odors before you leave.
