The advice about leaving an upturned glass and a piece of paper in the sink before going on vacation is a simple way to check whether your plumbing has remained dry and odor-free while you’re away.
Here’s how it works:
What you’ll need
- 1 clean drinking glass
- 1 small sheet of paper or a paper towel
Steps
- Make sure the sink is clean and completely dry.
- Lay the piece of paper flat over the drain opening.
- Place the glass upside down over the paper so it completely covers the drain.
- Leave it this way while you’re away.
Why people do this
- Helps block odors: Covering the drain can reduce sewer odors from escaping if the water in the drain trap evaporates during a long absence.
- Checks for moisture: When you return, if the paper is damp or the glass contains condensation or water, it may indicate moisture, drain backup, or another plumbing issue that developed while you were away.
- Keeps out insects: Covering the drain may also discourage insects, such as drain flies or cockroaches, from emerging through the drain.
Is it necessary?
For most trips of a few days to a couple of weeks, it’s usually not essential because sink drain traps normally retain enough water to block sewer gases. However, for longer absences—especially in hot, dry climates where traps can dry out—it can provide a little extra protection.
Additional vacation plumbing tips
- Run water in all sinks, tubs, and floor drains before you leave to ensure the traps are full.
- Check that faucets aren’t dripping and that there are no obvious leaks.
- If you’ll be away for an extended period, consider shutting off the home’s main water supply (if appropriate for your home and appliances).
- Empty food scraps from sink strainers and take out the trash to reduce odors and pests.
This glass-and-paper trick is inexpensive and harmless, but it’s a supplement—not a substitute—for good plumbing maintenance and preparing your home before a trip.
